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This keto Mediterranean ground beef stir fry transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful, low-carb dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes. The colorful vegetables and aromatic herbs create a dish that feels indulgent while keeping carbs in check.
I created this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed quick but nutritious dinners. It has since become my go-to solution for busy weeknights when I want something satisfying without the carb crash afterward.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Choose 85/15 for the ideal balance of flavor and moisture without excess grease
- Onion and garlic: These aromatics form the foundation of Mediterranean flavor
- Bell peppers: Use a mix of colors for both visual appeal and varied nutritional benefits
- Zucchini: Adds substance and absorbs flavors beautifully while keeping carbs low
- Cherry tomatoes: Burst with sweetness and acidity to balance the richness of the beef
- Olive oil: Use extra virgin for authentic Mediterranean flavor
- Dried herbs: Oregano and thyme provide classic Greek flavors that enhance without overwhelming
- Feta cheese: Adds a tangy creaminess and authentic Mediterranean touch
- Fresh parsley: Brightens the finished dish with color and fresh herbaceous notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare All Ingredients:
- Chop all vegetables before heating any pans. Dice the onion into quarter inch pieces, slice bell peppers into thin strips, cut zucchini into half moons about quarter inch thick, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Having everything ready creates a smooth cooking experience without any rush once the heat is on.
- Brown The Beef:
- Heat your largest skillet over medium high heat until you can feel warmth hovering your hand above it. Add one tablespoon olive oil and swirl to coat. Add ground beef, breaking it into small chunks with a wooden spoon. Allow it to develop a brown crust on one side before stirring, about 2 minutes. Continue cooking and breaking up meat until no pink remains, about 5 minutes total.
- Develop Flavor Base:
- Without removing the beef, push it to one side of the pan and add remaining tablespoon of oil to the empty space. Add onions and cook for 2 minutes until beginning to soften. Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant but not brown. Mix everything together, allowing the beef to absorb these flavors.
- Layer In Vegetables:
- Add bell peppers and zucchini to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for 3 minutes until vegetables begin to soften but still maintain some firmness. Add cherry tomatoes last, as they need less cooking time to prevent becoming mushy.
- Season The Dish:
- Sprinkle oregano and thyme evenly across the mixture, followed by salt and pepper. Start with half teaspoon each of salt and pepper, then taste and adjust. Stir to distribute herbs and seasonings throughout the dish, allowing them to bloom in the heat for about 1 minute.
- Finish And Garnish:
- Remove skillet from heat. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the hot mixture where it will slightly soften without fully melting. Scatter fresh parsley over the top just before serving for a bright, fresh element that complements the cooked flavors.
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The cherry tomatoes are my secret weapon in this recipe. When cooked just until they begin to burst, they release their sweet juices that create a light natural sauce coating everything with incredible flavor. My husband, who typically requests rice with every meal, happily devours this standalone dish without missing the carbs at all.
Make Ahead and Storage
This dish actually improves with time as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it up to three days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a tablespoon of water to restore moisture. The vegetables will soften slightly more upon reheating but maintain excellent flavor. If planning to store, consider adding the feta cheese and fresh herbs only when serving rather than during initial cooking.
Customization Options
While this recipe follows Mediterranean flavor principles, you can easily adapt it to your preferences or what you have available. Ground lamb makes an excellent substitute for beef, adding a richer flavor profile. For a vegetable variation, try adding eggplant, artichoke hearts, or olives for even more Mediterranean character. If you are not strictly following keto, a handful of chickpeas adds texture and substance. For a spicier version, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño with the other vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
For those not following keto, this stir fry makes an excellent topping for cauliflower rice, maintaining the low carb profile while adding more substance. A side of tzatziki offers cooling contrast to the warm spices. For a complete Mediterranean experience, serve alongside a simple Greek salad with cucumber, red onion, and a lemon olive oil dressing. For family members who are not carb conscious, warm pita bread makes a perfect accompaniment for scooping up the savory mixture.
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This Mediterranean ground beef stir fry is the perfect balance of bold flavors and health-conscious ingredients—ideal for busy weeknights!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I make this dish more spicy?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes while cooking the beef, or add a diced jalapeño with the other vegetables. A dash of hot sauce or harissa paste would also complement the Mediterranean flavors nicely.
- → Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground lamb would provide an authentic Mediterranean flavor, while ground turkey or chicken offers a lighter alternative. For a vegetarian option, crumbled firm tofu or tempeh works well.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For best results, add the feta cheese after reheating.
- → What can I serve with this dish to make it a complete meal?
While this dish is complete on its own, you could serve it with cauliflower rice to maintain the keto profile. A simple Greek salad or steamed greens would also complement the flavors nicely.
- → Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze this dish without the feta cheese for up to 3 months. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly, adding fresh feta just before serving.
- → How can I make this more authentically Mediterranean?
Add olives, capers, or artichoke hearts to enhance Mediterranean flavors. Incorporate fresh herbs like oregano, basil and mint instead of dried. Finish with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice.