Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry

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## **Instructions**

### **1. Cook the Ground Beef**
– Heat the **olive oil** in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
– Add the **ground beef**, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook for about **5-7 minutes** or until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.

### **2. Sauté the Vegetables**
– Add the **chopped onion** to the pan and sauté for about **2-3 minutes** until softened.
– Stir in the **minced garlic**, **bell pepper**, and **zucchini**. Cook for another **5-7 minutes**, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.

### **3. Season the Stir Fry**
– Add the **oregano**, **cumin**, **paprika**, **cinnamon**, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together so the spices coat the beef and veggies evenly. Let everything cook together for another **2-3 minutes** to allow the flavors to meld.

### **4. Add the Finishing Touches**
– Stir in the **cherry tomatoes** and **black olives** (if using) and cook for an additional **2-3 minutes** until the tomatoes soften slightly.
– Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.

### **5. Serve & Garnish**
– Serve the stir fry over cooked **rice**, **quinoa**, or in **pita bread** for a Mediterranean-style wrap.
– Top with crumbled **feta cheese** and garnish with fresh **parsley** or **cilantro**.

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## **Tips & Variations**
🔸 **Add More Veggies** – Feel free to throw in other Mediterranean favorites like **eggplant**, **spinach**, or **kalamata olives**.
🔸 **Make It Spicy** – Add a pinch of **red pepper flakes** or a finely chopped **jalapeño** for some heat.
🔸 **Use Ground Turkey or Chicken** – For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with **ground turkey** or **ground chicken**.
🔸 **Make It Low-Carb** – Serve over cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own if you’re following a low-carb diet.
🔸 **Serve as a Salad** – Serve the stir fry on top of a bed of mixed greens or arugula for a light, Mediterranean-inspired salad.

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This **Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry** is a quick and healthy meal that brings vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your kitchen. The combination of spices, fresh veggies, and the richness of the ground beef makes each bite flavorful and satisfying. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for a busy weeknight or meal prep.

Looking for more Mediterranean-inspired dishes or healthy stir fry ideas? Let me know! 😊