Hi Foodie Friends!

Are you craving a meal that’s both incredibly flavorful and packed with nutrients?  Look no further!  Today, we’re diving headfirst into a vibrant and satisfying dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean: the Mediterranean Beef Bowl.

This isn’t just another bland bowl of protein and veggies.  Oh no, this is a symphony of flavors, textures, and colors that will leave you feeling nourished and happy.  Think juicy, seasoned beef, fluffy grains, crunchy vegetables, creamy hummus, tangy olives, and a vibrant lemon-herb dressing tying it all together.  Ready to get cooking?

Why We Love This Mediterranean Beef Bowl:

• Flavor Explosion: This bowl hits all the right notes – savory, tangy, fresh, and a little bit earthy. The combination of herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients is simply divine.
• Packed with Goodness: Lean beef provides protein, while the whole grains offer fiber and sustained energy. The colorful array of veggies delivers a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences and what you have on hand. This bowl is incredibly versatile!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy delicious and healthy lunches all week long.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive flavors, this recipe is surprisingly easy to put together.

Let’s Get Cooking! Here’s What You’ll Need:

(Yields 4 servings)

Ingredients for beef mixture:

• 1 -1¼ pounds ground beef (93% lean)
• ½ large yellow onion
• 3-4 garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon coriander
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (more or less according to taste)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Base:

• 2 cups cooked quinoa, couscous, or brown rice
• (Or any grain you prefer)

For the Veggies:

• Cucumber
• Red bell pepper
• Cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
• Pickled red onion
• Fresh mixed greens

For the Toppings:

• Kalamata and green olives
• Crumbled feta cheese, optional
• Hummus
• Chopped fresh parsley

For the Lemon-Herb Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons (40 grams) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all of the ingredients in a jar with a lid.  Put lid on the jar and shake to combine.

Instructions:

1. Measure herbs and spices in a small bowl and stir to combine.  Finely chop half of a large yellow onion.  Mince 3-4 cloves of garlic.  Set these aside.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.  Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until softened and translucent.   Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Reduce the heat to low.  Add the spices to the skillet with the cooked onions and garlic.  Stir the spices well into the mixture and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to bloom.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions, garlic, and spices.  Use a spatula or spoon to break up the beef into smaller pieces.  Cook the beef, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully browned.
5. Continue to cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for another 5-10 minutes.  This allows the flavors to meld together.  Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.  You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or cayenne.

Tips & Variations:

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper or aleppo flakes to the beef marinade for a little heat.
• Swap the Veggies: Feel free to use roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers.
• Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or chopped pistachios for extra texture.
• Make it Vegetarian: Replace the beef with grilled halloumi cheese or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or basil.
• Serve with pita or crusty bread:  This is great for dipping and scooping up hummus and any leftover juices!

6. Prepare your base for the bowls (e.g., rice, quinoa, couscous, salad greens).  Portion the beef on top of the base and top with any of your favorite                     Mediterranean toppings.

This Mediterranean Beef Bowl is a weeknight dinner winner, perfect for meal prepping, and an all-around delicious way to nourish your body.  So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think!  If you do, please tag me on Instagram @goodeatsbymimi.  I would love to hear from you and see your photos!