Greek-Style Beef and Zucchini Rice Bowl

Delicious Greek-Style Beef and Zucchini Rice Bowl

Hey there! If you’re looking for a quick and nutritious meal, then this Greek-Style Beef and Zucchini Rice Bowl might just be your new go-to! This dish is not only packed with flavor but also high in protein, thanks to the ground beef, and it incorporates some fresh veggies that give it a beautiful, colorful presentation. Believe me, when I whip this up, I feel like I’m treating myself to a gourmet meal without all the fuss!

Nutritional Benefits

This rice bowl is a powerhouse of nutrition! Lean ground beef is rich in protein, essential for muscle growth and repair, while zucchinis are low in calories yet provide a good dose of vitamins A and C. The addition of cherry tomatoes gives you antioxidants, and feta cheese adds a delightful creaminess along with calcium. It’s a tasty way to ensure you’re getting a variety of nutrients in one meal!

Adaptable Variations

• Go Gluten-Free: If you’re aiming for a gluten-free meal, simply serve this over quinoa or switch to cauliflower rice instead.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground beef for a plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas—still delicious and filling!
• Add More Veggies: If you have other veggies on hand, feel free to toss in some bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition.

Easy and Flavorful Greek-Style Beef and Zucchini Rice Bowl Recipe

Ingredients List

• 1 lb ground beef (lean)
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or mint for garnish
• Optional: Tzatziki sauce for serving

Serves 4–6 people

Standard portions → 4 servings
Slightly smaller portions → up to 6 servings

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice: If not already prepared, make the rice according to package instructions and set it aside. You want fluffy rice that acts as the perfect base for this bowl!
2. Prepare the Ingredients: While the rice is cooking, slice the zucchinis and halve the cherry tomatoes. Mince the garlic and dice the red onion to get everything ready to go!
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Then toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, throw in the diced red onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything for about 2 minutes until it smells amazing!
5. Brown the Meat: Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up and cook until it’s browned, which should take around 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it out.
6. Add Seasonings: Stir in the dried oregano and cumin, mixing them well into the beef. Let it cook for another minute, then add the sautéed zucchini and tomatoes back into the skillet. Gently mix everything together and heat through for about 2 minutes.
7. Assemble the Bowl: Grab your serving bowls and add a generous portion of the cooked rice. Top each bowl with the savory beef and vegetable mixture.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top and add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or mint. For an extra touch, a dollop of tzatziki sauce brings everything together beautifully!
9. Enjoy: Serve immediately while everything is warm. This dish is one that will have you coming back for more! Don’t forget to get a bite with rice, veggies, and beef in each mouthful!

Practical & Valuable Tips

• Feel free to customize your toppings! A bit of avocado or olives can take it to the next level.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently for a quick meal the next day!
• If making this dish for meal prep, keep the rice separate to prevent it from getting soggy.

Equipment Needed

Let’s make sure you have all you need ready to go:

• A large skillet for cooking the beef and veggies
• A pot for cooking rice
• A cutting board and sharp knife for slicing
• A spatula for stirring
• A serving bowl for your beautiful creations

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Definitely! Ground turkey is leaner and will work just as well in this recipe.
2. What if I don’t have feta cheese? No worries! You can use goat cheese, or even skip the cheese altogether if you prefer.
3. Can I add more vegetables to this dish? Yes, absolutely! Feel free to throw in bell peppers, spinach, or any other veggies you enjoy.
4. How long do leftovers last? They should last in the fridge for about 3 days, just make sure to store them properly!
5. Can I freeze this dish? Yes! Just separate the components before freezing, as the rice may become mushy once thawed.

So there you have it—a delicious, high-protein meal that’s sure to satisfy! If you try this Greek-Style Beef and Zucchini Rice Bowl, I’d love to know how your version turned out! Share your results on Pinterest or drop me a message with your thoughts! Happy cooking!