Description
These Mediterranean Ground Beef Lettuce Wraps make a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner option perfect for busy weeknights. Ground beef is cooked with aromatic spices and fresh vegetables, then served wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves and topped with tangy feta cheese. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish delivers Mediterranean flavors that are both satisfying and light.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh Ingredients & Toppings
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 head butter lettuce or romaine, leaves separated
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté onions: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Season beef: Mix in ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the beef.
- Add fresh ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in diced cherry tomatoes, lemon juice, and chopped parsley to add freshness and bright flavor.
- Prepare wraps: Spoon the seasoned beef mixture into separated lettuce leaves, creating bite-sized wraps.
- Add feta and serve: Top each wrap with crumbled feta cheese. Serve immediately while fresh and crisp.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) to reduce excess fat.
- If you prefer, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Butter lettuce offers a softer wrap, while romaine provides extra crunch and structure.
- These wraps can be served with a side of tzatziki or a simple cucumber salad to enhance Mediterranean flavors.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the other seasonings.
