Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet

By Muhammad Faizan

Mediterranean Ground Beef Skillet

Ingredients

  • 500g ground beef

  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 small red onion, sliced

  • 1 small yellow onion, sliced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • ½ tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp dried basil

  • ¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional)

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese

  • 1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley or mint (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients:
    Wash and slice all the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes and mince the garlic.

  2. Cook the beef:
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

  3. Sauté the vegetables:
    Add the sliced onions and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

  4. Add zucchini:
    Stir in the sliced zucchini and cook for 4–5 minutes until tender but not mushy.

  5. Mix in tomatoes and seasoning:
    Add cherry tomatoes, oregano, basil, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for another 3–4 minutes until tomatoes begin to soften.

  6. Finish & garnish:
    Remove from heat, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, and garnish with chopped parsley or mint.

  7. Serve hot:
    Serve as is, or pair with rice, quinoa, couscous, or flatbread.

Servings

  • Serves: 3–4 people

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Cook time: 20 minutes

  • Total time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 340 kcal

  • Protein: 26 g

  • Fat: 23 g

  • Carbohydrates: 8 g

  • Fiber: 2 g

  • Sugar: 4 g

  • Sodium: 340 mg

(Values vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Chef’s Tips

  • Use lean beef (90% lean or higher) to reduce fat.

  • Add bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrients.

  • For a low-carb version, serve on a bed of cauliflower rice.

  • To make it vegetarian, substitute beef with lentils or crumbled tofu.

Health Benefits

  • High in protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.

  • Rich in antioxidants: Tomatoes, zucchini, and onions provide vitamins A, C, and phytonutrients.

  • Healthy fats: Olive oil and feta contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

  • Low-carb option: Great for keto or Mediterranean diets.

Common Q&A

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

Q2: Can I freeze it?
Yes. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Add fresh feta and herbs after reheating.

Q3: What can I serve it with?
Perfect with rice, couscous, pita bread, or even pasta. For a lighter option, serve with a green salad.

Q4: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead?
Absolutely! Both are excellent lean alternatives to beef.

Q5: How do I make it spicier?
Add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

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