Healthy Ground Beef Stir Fry with Zucchini, Olives, and Cherry Tomatoes

If dinner needs to be fast, flavorful, and full of good-for-you ingredients, this Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is your new go-to. It’s made in one pan, takes about 20 minutes, and is loaded with vibrant vegetables, warm spices, salty olives, and creamy feta.

This is not your average stir fry—it’s Mediterranean-inspired with bold character and balanced nutrition.


Why I Love This Recipe

This dish checks every box: easy cleanup, flexible ingredients, and deep flavor with minimal effort. Ground beef is budget-friendly and fast-cooking, and when paired with bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and kalamata olives, it transforms into something crave-worthy.

Topped with tangy feta and fresh parsley, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead lunches—and it’s naturally gluten-free and low-carb too.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Ingredient Swaps & Notes

  • Ground meat options: Sub in ground turkey, lamb, or chicken for a different twist.
  • Add grains: Serve over rice, couscous, quinoa, or with warm pita bread.
  • More veggies? Spinach, eggplant, or mushrooms would all be delicious additions.
  • Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or harissa for extra heat.

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until fully browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Stir in the bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 5–6 minutes, until veggies are tender and tomatoes are starting to burst.

Step 4: Season

Sprinkle in oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and coat everything in the spices.

Step 5: Toss in Olives

Add sliced olives and cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm them through.

Step 6: Finish with Feta and Parsley

Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the dish with crumbled feta and chopped parsley.

Step 7: Serve

Enjoy on its own or serve over a bed of rice, quinoa, or tucked into warm pita for a wrap-style meal.


Tips for Success

  • Dice veggies evenly for even cooking and better texture.
  • Don’t overcook tomatoes – you want them soft but not mushy.
  • Feta tip: Use block feta and crumble it yourself for better flavor and texture.
  • Meal prep friendly: This dish reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This stir fry makes a fantastic main course, but here’s how to round it out:


Storage & Leftovers

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
  • Freeze: Cools and freezes well for up to 2 months—just leave out the fresh herbs and feta until serving.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re into easy, bold-flavored one-pan meals, these are must-tries:


Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry is one of those meals that’s so easy, you’ll find yourself making it on repeat. With bold seasoning, fresh vegetables, and creamy feta to finish it off, it’s a weeknight winner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

If you make it, tag @chefmaniac and show us your plate! Want more fast, flavor-packed recipes? Hit follow and stay hungry.