Summer is the perfect time for light yet satisfying meals, and what better way to enjoy the season than with a delicious and versatile ground beef recipe? Forget heavy winter stews; this collection of quick dinner ideas showcases the best of summer produce, paired with the hearty goodness of ground beef. These easy recipes are perfect for busy weeknights and effortlessly elevate your homemade cooking.
Speedy Beef and Zucchini Skillet
This recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals made easy. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hot summer evenings when you want a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced zucchini, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid.
- Feel free to substitute other summer vegetables, such as yellow squash, eggplant, or mushrooms.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: Approximately 30g
- Fat: Approximately 18g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15g
Ground Beef and Corn Salad: A Refreshing Summer Dish
This vibrant salad is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are both healthy and satisfying. It's perfect for a light lunch or a side dish at a summer barbecue. It’s incredibly easy to make and showcases the best of fresh summer ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups cooked corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, corn, red bell pepper, black beans, red onion, and cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately or chill for later.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables, such as diced avocado, chopped tomatoes, or jalapenos.
- Use a different type of bean, such as kidney beans or pinto beans.
- Substitute the lime juice with lemon juice or another citrus juice.
These summer recipes with ground beef offer a variety of delicious and easy options to enjoy the best of the season. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique dishes. Remember, homemade cooking is all about creativity and enjoying the process!