12 Mediterranean Ground Beef Recipes

I’ve gathered 12 mouthwatering ground beef recipes that will whisk you away to sun-drenched shores and vibrant markets.

From juicy Greek-style stuffed bell peppers to aromatic Turkish kofta, each dish is bursting with flavor and heart-healthy ingredients.

You’ll discover the perfect blend of spices and fresh herbs that make these recipes truly shine.

Whether you love grilling, baking, or slow-cooking, you’re sure to find something to inspire your next meal!

Greek-Style Stuffed Bell Peppers

Greek-Style Stuffed Bell Peppers are a classic Mediterranean dish, packed with flavors and healthy ingredients. This is a versatile meal that can be served as the main course or as a side dish, and it’s perfect for both lunch and dinner. Not to mention, it’s a great way to make use of any leftover ground beef you might’ve in your fridge.

The ground beef is cooked with an array of aromatic spices, onions, and garlic, then mixed with rice and tomatoes to create a delicious stuffing. The bell peppers, once hollowed out, serve as the perfect vessel for this mixture, and the whole dish is baked to perfection. The result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 4-6 bell peppers
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of cooked rice
• 1 can of diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
• Olive oil for cooking

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add in the ground beef and cook until it’s browned. Make sure to break up the beef into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Once the beef is browned, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the dried oregano, ground cinnamon, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the cooked rice and drained tomatoes to the skillet. Stir everything together, then remove the skillet from the heat.
6. Prepare the bell peppers by cutting off the tops and removing the seeds and membranes from inside. Place the prepared peppers in a baking dish.
7. Carefully spoon the ground beef mixture into the hollowed-out bell peppers. Fill each pepper to the top.
8. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top of the beef-filled peppers.
9. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden.
10. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

For extra tips, keep in mind that the type of ground beef you use can affect the flavor of the dish. Lean ground beef works best for this recipe as it has less fat and won’t make the stuffing too greasy.

Also, adding a bit of chopped fresh parsley or mint on top before serving can add a nice pop of color and freshness to this hearty Mediterranean dish.

Hearty Mediterranean Beef Moussaka

Hearty Mediterranean Beef Moussaka is a delicious dish that combines layers of eggplant, potatoes, and a savory meat sauce topped off with a creamy béchamel sauce. This dish is a staple in Greece and other Mediterranean countries due to its rich flavors and comforting qualities. It’s perfect for any time of the year, but especially cozy during the colder months.

While this recipe might seem complex at first glance, it’s actually quite simple to make. The key is to guarantee each layer is well-cooked and seasoned before assembling the dish. This ensures each bite is packed with flavor. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 500g lean ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup red wine
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For the béchamel sauce:

• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• Salt and white pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by salting the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This will draw out the moisture and bitterness. Rinse, pat dry, and set aside.
2. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, and sauté until they’re softened.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat and return to heat.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, red wine, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 20 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
5. While your meat sauce is simmering, start your béchamel sauce. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, then slowly whisk in the milk. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and whisk in the beaten eggs, nutmeg, salt, and white pepper.
6. Assemble your moussaka in a baking dish. Start with a layer of potatoes, followed by a layer of eggplant, then half of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining meat sauce.
7. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for about 15 minutes before serving, garnish with fresh parsley.

When making this dish, remember that the layering is what makes moussaka special, so don’t rush the process. The béchamel sauce can be tricky, so be sure to continuously whisk it to prevent lumps.

Also, the dish can be made ahead and reheated, making it a great option for meal prepping. Enjoy this hearty Mediterranean classic!

Turkish Ground Beef Koftas

Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with this recipe for Turkish Ground Beef Koftas. This dish, a popular staple in Turkey, is a delightful blend of ground beef, spices, and herbs, grilled to perfection and served with a side of vibrant, invigorating salad. The combination of the aromatic spices and the succulence of the beef creates an explosion of flavors that truly embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.

What makes this recipe even more appealing is its simplicity. Contrary to what you might think, it doesn’t require any exotic ingredients or complicated cooking techniques. All you need are some basic pantry staples and a little bit of time to prep and cook. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to be transported to the sun-kissed beaches of the Mediterranean.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs of ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 4-6 skewers

Cooking instructions:

1. Start by preheating your grill over medium heat. While the grill heats up, you can prepare your kofta mixture.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Mix these ingredients until they’re well combined.
3. Next, add the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt and pepper. Mix until all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the ground beef mixture.
4. Divide the mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a long, narrow cylinder around a skewer. Make sure the meat is packed tightly around the skewer to prevent it from falling apart during grilling.
5. Brush each kofta with a bit of olive oil before placing them on the grill. This will prevent them from sticking to the grill and will also give them a nice, golden color.
6. Grill the koftas for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking.

For an authentic Turkish meal, serve your ground beef koftas with a side of fresh salad and some warm pita bread. Remember, the key to a great kofta is the quality of the ground beef; always opt for fresh, high-quality meat.

Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with the spices; Mediterranean cuisine is all about bold flavors, so feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste.

Italian Beef Bolognese Pasta

Italian Beef Bolognese Pasta is a classic Mediterranean dish that’s loved by people all over the world. This hearty and savory dish is the epitome of Italian comfort food, featuring ground beef cooked in a rich tomato sauce and served over pasta. The combination of flavors from the beef, tomatoes, herbs, and fresh pasta is truly divine, making this dish a favorite at family dinners and special occasions.

While this dish might seem complex, it’s actually quite simple to prepare. All you need is a skillet, a pot for cooking the pasta, and a handful of ingredients that are commonly found in any kitchen. The key to making a great Beef Bolognese is to let the sauce simmer for an hour or so, which allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich, hearty sauce that perfectly complements the pasta. Here is a recipe that serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup red wine
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 pound pasta of choice
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery and sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for about an hour.
4. While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. When the pasta is done, drain it well.
5. Serve the pasta with a generous amount of the Beef Bolognese sauce on top. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

When making this dish, keep in mind that the longer you let the sauce simmer, the richer and more flavorful it will become. If you have the time, let it simmer for more than an hour.

Also, feel free to add more vegetables if you like, such as bell peppers or mushrooms. This dish is quite versatile, so you can add or subtract ingredients based on your personal preferences. Enjoy the hearty flavors of this classic Italian dish!

Moroccan Spiced Beef Tagine

Moroccan Spiced Beef Tagine is a heartwarming and traditional dish from the Mediterranean that’s bursting with flavors of Morocco. This dish combines tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and a plethora of spices to create a stew that’s comforting and satisfying. It’s a perfect dish for a family meal, and it will serve 4-6 people generously.

The beauty of this dish lies in the blend of spices, the slow cooking method and the use of Tagine – a traditional North African clay pot with a conical lid. However, if you don’t have a tagine, a slow cooker or a heavy-bottomed pot would work just as well. Let’s explore the recipe of this sumptuous dish and bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs of beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can of chopped tomatoes
• 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup of dried apricots
• 1 cup of beef broth
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• Fresh coriander and toasted almonds for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a tagine or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent.
3. Add in the ground ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic and let the spices cook for a minute.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes into the pot and stir well, making sure to scrape any bits off the bottom of the pot.
5. Return the beef to the pot, along with the chopped carrots, potatoes, dried apricots, beef broth, and honey. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
6. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors are well combined.
7. Check for seasoning and adjust if necessary. Garnish with fresh coriander and toasted almonds before serving.

Extra Tips:

While cooking the Moroccan Spiced Beef Tagine, make sure to stir the mixture occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you find the stew becoming too dry, add a bit more beef broth.

Also, remember that this dish tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to meld together. So, don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time. Enjoy this Mediterranean delight with a side of couscous or warm bread for a complete meal.

Egyptian Kofta Kebabs

Egyptian Kofta Kebabs are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, known for their rich flavors and delightful texture. This dish is a blend of ground beef, spices, and fresh herbs, molded onto skewers and grilled to perfection. The result is a robust and savory kebab, served traditionally with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and a tangy tahini sauce. The recipe caters to a variety of palates, whether you prefer your food slightly spicy or mild.

This particular recipe for Egyptian Kofta Kebabs is suitable for serving 4-6 people. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. The recipe is fairly simple to follow, even for amateur chefs, and doesn’t require any complex cooking techniques. Plus, the preparation and cooking time falls within an hour, making it a convenient option for a quick, flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 8-12 wooden or metal skewers
• Olive oil for brushing

Cooking Instructions:

1. Begin by soaking your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning when placed on the grill.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, mint, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients until they’re well combined.
3. Shape the ground beef mixture into elongated oval patties, approximately 4-5 inches long. Thread each patty onto a skewer, ensuring the meat is evenly distributed along the skewer.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating, lightly brush each kebab with olive oil.
5. Place the kebabs on the hot grill and cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
6. Once cooked, remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Extra Cooking Tips:

When making your Egyptian Kofta Kebabs, remember that the key to a great kebab lies in the mixing of the ingredients. Be sure to mix your ground beef and spices thoroughly for maximum flavor.

Additionally, try not to overcook your kebabs; ground beef can become tough if cooked for too long. Finally, if you don’t have a grill, these kebabs can also be cooked in a broiler or a grill pan. Adjust your cooking times accordingly. Enjoy your homemade Mediterranean feast!

Lebanese Beef Kafta Patties

Lebanese Beef Kafta Patties are a delightful dish hailing from the Mediterranean region, particularly popular in Lebanon. This scrumptious meal is characterized by its unique blend of ground beef and a medley of spices, combined to create a flavorful experience that’s hard to forget. The patties are typically grilled, giving them a smoky flavor that further enhances the taste. Not only is this dish a treat to your taste buds, but it’s also quite nutritious, with a good balance of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

The process of making Lebanese Beef Kafta Patties is relatively simple and quick, making it an ideal choice for a weekday dinner or a quick lunch. The ingredients are easily accessible and the steps are straightforward. This recipe will yield enough patties to serve 4-6 people, making it perfect for a family meal or a small gathering of friends.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of ground beef
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon of ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
2. Add the ground coriander, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper to the meat mixture. Mix well to guarantee that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
3. Divide the mixture into equal portions and form each portion into a patty.
4. Preheat your grill or pan over medium heat. Brush each patty lightly with olive oil to prevent them from sticking to the grill.
5. Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the patties are nicely browned and fully cooked through.
6. Once the patties are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

When making Lebanese Beef Kafta Patties, it’s important to guarantee that all the ingredients are well incorporated for the best flavor. Don’t be afraid to use your hands to mix the ground beef and spices, as this can help to better distribute the flavors.

Additionally, while grilling the patties, resist the urge to press them down with a spatula as this can squeeze out the juices and make your patties dry. Finally, for an authentic Mediterranean touch, serve these patties with warm pita bread and a side of tzatziki sauce. Enjoy your taste journey to the Mediterranean!

Spanish Beef Albondigas (Meatballs)

Spanish Beef Albondigas, also known as Spanish meatballs, is a traditional dish from Spain that’s enjoyed throughout the Mediterranean region. These meatballs are a staple of the Spanish cuisine and are typically served as tapas, but can also be enjoyed as a main course. This recipe features a delicious combination of ground beef, fresh herbs, and spices, all simmered together in a savory tomato sauce.

The secret to making the best Spanish Beef Albondigas is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to give the flavors enough time to meld together. This recipe is simple to prepare, but it does require a bit of time to allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce. However, the end result is certainly worth the wait. With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of Mediterranean flavors that will transport you to the sunny coasts of Spain.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Cooking Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, half of the parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until they’re browned on all sides. This should take about 10 minutes.
4. Once the meatballs are browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, red wine, paprika, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Return the meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in the sauce for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Sprinkle the remaining parsley on top before serving.

Extra Tips:

When making Spanish Beef Albondigas, it’s essential to not rush the simmering process. This step allows the meatballs to soak up the flavors from the sauce, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Additionally, feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. If you prefer a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can leave them out entirely.

Enjoy your cooking journey and buen provecho!

Mediterranean Beef and Lentil Stew

Mediterranean cuisine is known for its rich flavors and health benefits, and this Mediterranean Beef and Lentil Stew doesn’t shy away from either of these attributes. This hearty stew combines lean ground beef with protein-packed lentils and a medley of aromatic vegetables and spices, ensuring a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

The use of Mediterranean herbs and spices gives this dish a unique taste that sets it apart from traditional beef stew. The Mediterranean Beef and Lentil Stew is an easy one-pot dish that can be prepared in under an hour. The lentils absorb the flavors of the beef and the spices, creating a delicious and comforting dish.

It’s a versatile recipe that allows for various additions or substitutions, depending on your preference or what you have in your pantry.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked lentils
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Stir frequently until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, ground cinnamon, and ground cumin. Cook for a minute until the spices are fragrant.
4. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Cover the pot and bring the stew to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the lentils are tender, about 30-40 minutes.
6. Once the lentils are cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve the stew warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

When cooking this Mediterranean Beef and Lentil Stew, it’s important to remember that lentils absorb a lot of liquid, so make sure your pot is large enough. If you find the stew is too thick, you can always add more broth or water.

Feel free to customize the recipe with other Mediterranean ingredients like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also substitute the beef with ground lamb for a more authentic Mediterranean flavor.

Greek Beef Souvlaki Skewers

Transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean with these delightful Greek Beef Souvlaki Skewers. This dish is a staple in Greek cuisine, boasting of succulent cubes of marinated beef skewered and grilled to perfection, often served with a revitalizing tzatziki sauce. Its unique blend of flavors comes from the traditional marinade which includes olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a variety of fragrant herbs.

Greek Beef Souvlaki Skewers aren’t only incredibly flavorful, but they’re also easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a weekend barbecue or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. The skewers are often paired with pita bread and a simple Greek salad, making for a complete, balanced meal. This recipe serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs of lean beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup of lemon juice
• 1/2 cup of olive oil
• 2 teaspoons of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
• 2 large red bell peppers, cut into chunks
• 2 large onions, cut into chunks
• Wooden or metal skewers

Cooking instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well-combined.
2. Add the beef cubes to the marinade. Mix until every piece of beef is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let the beef marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
3. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
5. Thread the marinated beef, red bell pepper chunks, and onion chunks onto the skewers, alternating between each ingredient.
6. Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness and the vegetables are tender.
7. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

When preparing Greek Beef Souvlaki Skewers, remember that marinating the beef for a longer period will yield more flavorful results. Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and herbs in the marinade according to your preference.

Also, while this recipe uses beef, you can easily substitute it with chicken, pork, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option. Enjoy this taste of the Mediterranean!

Italian Beef Lasagna Florentine

Italian Beef Lasagna Florentine is a delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s certain to impress your family and friends. This hearty and flavorful recipe combines the savory taste of ground beef with the rich and creamy texture of cheese, all baked together in a comforting lasagna. The addition of fresh spinach adds a nutritious twist to the traditional lasagna, making it not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals.

The best part about this recipe is its simplicity. While it may seem like a complex dish to prepare, it’s actually quite straightforward. With a little bit of patience and the right ingredients, you can easily recreate this Italian classic in your own kitchen.

Here’s how you can prepare Italian Beef Lasagna Florentine for a serving size of 4-6 people:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup of tomato paste
• 1 cup of ricotta cheese
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s thoroughly browned, making sure to break it up into small pieces. Drain the excess fat.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and chopped spinach. Mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread a layer of the cheese mixture on the noodles, then top with another layer of sauce. Repeat these layers, ending with a final layer of sauce on top.
6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer of sauce. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
7. Bake the lasagna in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Extra Tips:

When preparing this dish, make certain that you drain the grease from the ground beef thoroughly. This will help prevent the lasagna from becoming too oily.

Also, letting the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve. For a healthier version, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken, and use whole-wheat lasagna noodles.

This versatile recipe can be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy!

Mediterranean Beef and Couscous Salad

Mediterranean Beef and Couscous Salad is a delicious, nutritious dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a large gathering. This dish is inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean, featuring a blend of aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and hearty beef. The couscous serves as a light and fluffy base that beautifully absorbs the dressing, adding a delightful texture to the dish.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can replace the beef with chicken or lamb, or omit the meat entirely for a vegetarian version. The salad is also a great way to use up leftover veggies from your fridge. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dish, as the flavors intensify when left to mingle in the fridge overnight.

Ingredients:

• 500g ground beef
• 2 cups instant couscous
• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 large tomato, diced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 bunch of fresh mint, finely chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large frying pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and crumbly. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, pour the boiling water over the couscous. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes, until the water is absorbed.
3. Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains. Allow it to cool.
4. Once the couscous is cooled, add the cooked ground beef, diced cucumber, bell peppers, tomato, and red onion to the bowl. Mix well.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped mint, lemon juice, and olive oil to make the dressing.
6. Pour the dressing over the couscous and beef mixture. Toss well to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

When making Mediterranean Beef and Couscous Salad, it’s important to let the salad rest in the refrigerator before serving. The extra time allows the flavors to develop and the ingredients to absorb the dressing.

If you don’t have immediate access to fresh herbs, dried ones can also work – just use them sparingly as their flavors are more concentrated. Feel free to play around with the ingredients to suit your preference or dietary needs. Enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean right in your home!