These Greek Beef Pitas are a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Tender ground beef is seasoned with a mix of traditional Greek spices, then piled into warm pita bread and topped with a refreshing cucumber-yogurt sauce, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. The combination of savory beef and cool, creamy toppings makes this dish a delicious choice for lunch or dinner. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal that brings a taste of Greece to your table.
Ingredients:
For the beef filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the cucumber-yogurt sauce (Tzatziki):
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Salt to taste
For assembly:
- 4 pita breads
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- Fresh parsley or mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the beef filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the pan, then stir in the oregano, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat.
- Make the Tzatziki sauce:
- In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill. Season with salt to taste. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Assemble the pitas:
- Warm the pita breads in a skillet or oven.
- Spread a generous amount of Tzatziki sauce onto each pita.
- Add a portion of the beef filling on top.
- Layer with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or mint leaves if desired.
- Fold the pita and serve immediately.
Enjoy your Greek Beef Pitas with a side of Greek salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal!
