Name: Quick Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium red onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pound ground beef; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

When life gets hectic and dinner needs to be fast, flavorful, and nourishing, this Quick Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry checks every box. It brings together lean protein, colorful vegetables, and bold Mediterranean spices in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of weeknight recipe that feels both satisfying and refreshingly light.

This stir fry is an easy favorite, especially when you’re craving something vibrant and nutritious without much prep. The beauty is in the simplicity: just a skillet, a few fresh ingredients, and a few pantry staples. It can be served over rice, couscous, or even tucked into pita bread for a quick wrap.

Why You’ll Love This Quick Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry

This dish is the perfect mix of quick and wholesome. The blend of earthy cumin, smoked paprika, and bright lemon gives it a burst of Mediterranean flavor without needing a ton of effort. It’s naturally gluten-free, meal-prep friendly, and adaptable to whatever veggies you have on hand. And the best part? It tastes even better the next day.

What Vegetables Work Best in a Mediterranean Stir Fry?

This recipe thrives on variety. Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and spinach are some of the best choices to start with. But don’t hesitate to swap in eggplant, kale, mushrooms, or even artichokes depending on your taste or what’s in your fridge. Keep the veggies fresh and colorful for the most vibrant, flavorful results.

Ingredients for the Quick Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry

Mediterranean stir fry is all about clean, vibrant flavors, and each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in delivering that balance.

Ground beef
Red onion
Garlic cloves
Bell peppers (any color)
Zucchini
Cherry tomatoes
Fresh spinach
Olive oil
Cumin
Smoked paprika
Dried oregano
Sea salt
Black pepper
Lemon juice
Feta cheese (optional for topping)
Fresh parsley (optional garnish)

The ground beef adds richness, while the vegetables keep things fresh and nutrient-dense. Spices bring warmth and depth, and the lemon juice brightens every bite.

How To Make the Quick Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

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

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until fully browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add the Veggies

Toss in the sliced bell peppers and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes until slightly tender. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for another 3 minutes, allowing them to blister and release their juices.

Step 4: Season It Up

Sprinkle in cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and let everything cook together for a few more minutes.

Step 5: Wilt the Greens

Add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 1 minute. Remove the skillet from heat and squeeze lemon juice over the mixture.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot over rice, couscous, or with warm pita.

How to Serve and Store Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

This hearty and healthy stir fry is versatile when it comes to serving. Spoon it over fluffy couscous or herbed rice, wrap it in flatbread, or keep it low-carb by piling it over greens. It feeds 4 people generously and is perfect for meal prep too. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Quick Mediterranean Ground Beef and Veggie Stir Fry?

Hummus and Pita

Creamy hummus with soft, warm pita pairs beautifully with the spiced stir fry.

Tzatziki Sauce

A cool dollop of tangy tzatziki brings contrast to the warm flavors.

Couscous or Quinoa

Both grains soak up the juices and make the meal more filling.

Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Bright and herby, this salad is a refreshing companion.

Roasted Eggplant Dip (Baba Ganoush)

Smoky and silky, it brings extra depth to the table.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

Crisp and juicy, it balances the dish with a fresh crunch.

Grilled Halloumi

Salty and crispy, this cheese adds a fun twist.

Stuffed Grape Leaves

For a full Mediterranean spread, these are always a hit.

Want More Ground Beef Dinner Ideas?

If this quick Mediterranean stir fry hit the spot, try some of these other flavorful ideas next:

Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef Melt for rich comfort food satisfaction.
Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet with rustic charm.
French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole for those cozy casserole cravings.
Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole when you need comfort and nutrition in one pot.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how you served it. Did you go with rice, or wrap it in pita? Add a little chili for heat? I’d love to hear your version.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite quick meal!