Greek-Style Beef and Zucchini Rice Bowl

Here’s a recipe for a Greek-Style Beef and Zucchini Rice Bowl that’s flavorful, balanced, and easy to make. It combines seasoned beef, tender zucchini, fluffy rice, and classic Greek flavors like garlic, oregano, lemon, and feta cheese.

Greek-Style Beef and Zucchini Rice Bowl

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or beef mince)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Juice of 1/2 lemon

For the Zucchini:

• 2 medium zucchinis, diced or sliced into half-moons

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice if preferred)

• 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth (for extra flavor)

• 1/2 tsp salt

• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for freshness)

For the Toppings and Garnish:

• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or dill

• 1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives (optional)

• 1/2 cup diced cucumber or tomato (optional, for freshness)

• Tzatziki sauce or Greek yogurt (optional, for serving)

• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

2. In a medium pot, combine rice, water (or broth), salt, and lemon zest.

3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes (white rice) or 40-45 minutes (brown rice) until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

4. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the diced zucchini, season with salt, pepper, and oregano.

3. Cook, stirring occasionally, until zucchini is tender and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

1. In the same skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.

2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon.

4. Season with oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

5. Cook, stirring occasionally, until beef is browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes).

6. Squeeze lemon juice over the cooked beef and stir to combine. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

1. Divide the cooked rice into serving bowls.

2. Top each bowl with sautéed zucchini and seasoned beef.

3. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese, fresh parsley or dill, and Kalamata olives if using.

4. Add diced cucumber or tomato for extra freshness.

5. Serve with a dollop of tzatziki or Greek yogurt and lemon wedges on the side.

Tips & Variations:

• For extra veggies, add roasted red peppers, sautéed onions, or cherry tomatoes.

• Use ground lamb instead of beef for a more traditional Greek flavor.

• Add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.

• Serve with warm pita bread on the side.