This bowl combines tender seasoned ground beef, crisp green vegetables, fluffy brown rice, and a burst of Mediterranean freshness from olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs. It’s balanced, nutrient-rich, and absolutely delicious—perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Mediterranean Beef

  • 500g (1 lb) ground beef (or lamb for a more traditional Mediterranean flavor)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp pomegranate molasses or balsamic vinegar
  • ½ cup beef broth or water
  • Optional: pinch of chili flakes

For the Green Vegetables

  • 2 cups broccolini or tenderstem broccoli, cut into pieces
  • 1 cup spinach or kale, roughly chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Juice of ½ lemon

For the Brown Rice

  • 2 cups cooked brown rice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Pinch of salt

Fresh Toppings

  • 3–4 spring onions, sliced
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional but beautiful)
  • Extra lemon wedges

🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Brown Rice

  1. If using uncooked rice, prepare according to package instructions.
  2. Once cooked, fluff with a fork.
  3. Mix in 1 tbsp olive oil, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt.
  4. Set aside and keep warm.

2. Cook the Mediterranean Beef

  1. Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and golden (about 5 minutes).
  3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon.
  5. Cook until browned and slightly crispy in spots.
  6. Stir in the cumin, paprika, coriander, salt, pepper, and tomato paste.
  7. Mix well until the spices coat the meat.
  8. Add pomegranate molasses (or balsamic vinegar) and broth.
  9. Let simmer 5–7 minutes until rich and slightly saucy.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning.

3. Cook the Green Vegetables

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in another pan (or use the same one after removing meat).
  2. Add broccolini and cook 4–5 minutes until bright green and lightly charred.
  3. Add spinach/kale and allow it to wilt.
  4. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
  5. Remove from heat.

4. Assemble the Mediterranean Bowl

  1. Add a generous scoop of brown rice to one side of the bowl.
  2. Add a serving of the Mediterranean beef mixture.
  3. Top with the sautéed broccolini + greens.
  4. Sprinkle with:
    • fresh spring onions
    • chopped parsley
    • sesame seeds
  5. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil or lemon for finishing.

🌟 Tips for a Stronger Mediterranean Flavor

  • Add a spoon of tahini on top.
  • Use ground lamb instead of beef.
  • Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the meat.
  • Add a dollop of Greek yogurt when serving.
  • Sprinkle with za’atar or sumac for extra authenticity.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

  • Enjoy warm as a hearty lunch or dinner.
  • Meal-prep friendly: stays fresh 3–4 days in the fridge.
  • Pair with hummus, pita bread, or a small Greek salad.