Mediterranean Greek-Style Beef and Zucchini Rice Bowl
The Mediterranean Greek-Style Beef and Zucchini Rice Bowl is a comforting, balanced meal that brings together savory spiced beef, tender zucchini, fluffy rice, and classic Greek flavors. It is inspired by everyday Mediterranean home cooking where simple ingredients are cooked with care and layered for both taste and nutrition. This bowl is hearty without being heavy, making it ideal for lunch or dinner. Olive oil, herbs, garlic, and lemon keep the flavors fresh, while zucchini adds moisture and lightness to the beef. Served over rice and finished with yogurt or herbs, this dish is easy to prepare and deeply satisfying.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 3 to 4 servings
Ingredients
For the Rice
1½ cups cooked basmati or long-grain rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
Pinch of salt
For the Beef and Zucchini
450 g (1 lb) ground beef
2 medium zucchini, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons water or broth
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For Serving (Optional)
Greek yogurt or tzatziki
Chopped parsley or dill
Sliced cucumber
Crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
Cook the rice according to package instructions. Fluff with olive oil and a pinch of salt, then set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and lightly golden.
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
Season the beef with salt, pepper, oregano, cumin, and paprika. Stir well.
Add diced zucchini to the pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until tender but not mushy.
Stir in tomato paste and water or broth. Simmer for 3 minutes until lightly saucy.
Finish with lemon juice and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve beef and zucchini over rice and add desired toppings.
Tips
Use lean ground beef for a lighter bowl.
Dice zucchini evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
Do not overcook zucchini to keep texture fresh.
Tomato paste adds depth without overpowering.
Lemon juice brightens the entire dish.
Let beef brown properly before stirring for best flavor.
Use fresh herbs if available for better aroma.
Rice can be made ahead to save time.
Add a splash of water if the pan becomes dry.
Serve warm for best taste and texture.
Variations
Use brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber.
Replace beef with ground lamb for a more traditional Greek flavor.
Add chopped tomatoes for a juicier version.
Stir in spinach at the end for extra greens.
Add chili flakes for gentle heat.
Use grated zucchini for a softer texture.
Top with olives for added Mediterranean depth.
Add cinnamon for a subtle Greek-style warmth.
Serve in lettuce cups instead of rice.
Add roasted red peppers for sweetness.
Q & A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
The beef mixture freezes well, but rice is best fresh.
Can I use another vegetable?
Yes, eggplant or bell peppers work well.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is mild and family-friendly.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, simply skip yogurt and feta.
What type of rice is best?
Basmati or jasmine rice works best.
Can I use ground turkey?
Yes, adjust seasoning slightly for flavor.
Is this good for meal prep?
Very good, it reheats well.
Can I add sauce?
A light yogurt sauce or tahini works well.
Is this authentic Greek?
It is Greek-inspired with modern simplicity.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 420
Protein: 26 g
Carbohydrates: 40 g
Fat: 18 g
Fiber: 4 g
Iron: High
Calcium: Moderate
