*For the Stir Fry*: – 1 lb ground beef (90% lean or leaner) – 1 tbsp olive oil – 1 small red onion, diced – 2 cloves garlic, minced – 1 small zucchini, diced – 1 red bell pepper, diced – 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, sliced – 1 tsp dried oregano – 1/2 tsp smoked paprika – 1/2 tsp ground cumin – 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – Salt & black pepper to taste – 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese – 1 tbsp lemon juice – 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
*Optional Serving Ideas*: – Cooked quinoa or rice – Pita bread or naan – Lettuce wraps for a low-carb option
*Instructions*:
1. *Prepare the ingredients*: Dice the red onion, zucchini, red bell pepper, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Slice the Kalamata olives, and chop the parsley.
2. *Cook the ground beef*: – In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. – Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. *Add the vegetables*: – To the skillet, add the diced red onion, minced garlic, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. *Season the stir fry*: – Add the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften and the flavors meld. – Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. *Finish and serve*: – Remove from heat and stir in the crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, and chopped parsley for a fresh, tangy finish.
6. *Serving suggestions*: – Serve the stir fry with your choice of cooked quinoa, rice, pita bread, or naan. For a low-carb option, serve it in lettuce wraps!
*Enjoy!* This ground beef stir fry is loaded with Mediterranean flavors and makes for a delicious, healthy meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep!
