Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry

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Juicy, well-seasoned ground beef mingles with tender zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and briny olives in this Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry. It’s a colorful, wholesome one-pan meal that comes together quickly but delivers bold flavors that feel like they’ve simmered all day. With hints of garlic, onion, and warming spices, this dish offers comforting depth and satisfying crunch in every bite.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or easy meal prep, this stir fry bridges the gap between quick cooking and elegant flavor. It’s naturally gluten-free, low carb, and endlessly customizable with your favorite vegetables or garnishes. Whether served on its own, over rice, or alongside warm pita, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

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What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

Lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) is ideal for this stir fry. It provides rich flavor without overwhelming grease, and browns nicely to develop savory depth. You could also substitute ground turkey or lamb for variation, but beef complements the Mediterranean seasonings best.

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Ingredients for the Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry

• Ground beef: This forms the hearty base of the dish and soaks up all the spice and seasoning.
• Zucchini: Adds moisture, freshness, and a pleasant bite.
• Cherry tomatoes: Their natural sweetness and acidity brighten the dish.
• Red onion: Offers a sweet, mellow flavor once sautéed.
• Olives (green or kalamata): Provide a briny counterbalance and Mediterranean flair.
• Garlic: Infuses the whole dish with its deep aromatic richness.
• Olive oil: Essential for sautéing and adding silkiness.
• Paprika and cumin: Bring warmth and subtle smokiness.
• Salt and pepper: Season and elevate all the other flavors.

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How To Make the Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped red onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart, cooking until it’s fully browned and no pink remains. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin.

Step 3: Toss in the Veggies

Stir in sliced zucchini and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still vibrant and the tomatoes are slightly blistered. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Add the Olives

Fold in the olives and cook for an additional 2 minutes. The olives will warm through and add a punch of salty flavor that ties everything together.

Step 5: Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish.

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How to Serve and Store Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry

This stir fry is best served hot right out of the skillet. It pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, warm couscous, or a slice of crusty bread. For a low-carb twist, try it over cauliflower rice or stuffed inside romaine leaves as lettuce wraps.

To store, let the stir fry cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to rehydrate the veggies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze this stir fry?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will keep up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, eggplant, mushrooms, or spinach make excellent additions or substitutions depending on what you have on hand.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, it’s more aromatic than spicy. If you prefer heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

What kind of olives are best?

Both green and kalamata olives work well. Use your favorite or a mix for variety and visual appeal.

Can I make this dairy-free and gluten-free?

It already is! Just double-check that your spices and olives don’t contain additives with gluten.

How do I keep the zucchini from getting mushy?

Don’t overcook it. Add it last and sauté just until tender-crisp to maintain texture.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry, check out these other flavorful dinners:

• One-Pan Moroccan Chicken and Couscous for a spiced, hearty meal.
• Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Skillet when you’re craving something comforting yet zesty.
• Tuscan White Bean and Sausage Skillet for a protein-packed, rustic dish.
• Greek Stuffed Bell Peppers loaded with herbs and feta.
• Eggplant and Chickpea Tagine for a warm, vegan option full of Mediterranean flair.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the olives or sneak in extra garlic? Did you add feta on top?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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