25-Min Mediterranean Ground Beef Pita Pockets
Bold Mediterranean flavors meet speed and convenience in these juicy pita pockets. Ground beef is seasoned with cumin and paired with tzatziki, cucumber-tomato salad, and warm pita for handheld comfort food.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 4 pitas
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-fry and baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Omnivore
Ingredients
Ground beef, 1 lb (450g)
Cumin, 1 tsp (4.9g)
Tzatziki, 1/2 cup (120g)
Cucumber/tomato salad, 1/2 cup (60g)
Pita bread, 4
Olive oil, 1 tbsp (15ml)
Onion, 1 small (50g)
Instructions
Chop the onion into fine dice for even distribution
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) with a baking sheet inside
In a 12-inch cast-iron skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat
Add onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened
Add ground beef and cook, breaking it down with a spatula, while seasoning with cumin
Continue cooking until the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C), ensuring it is tender yet firm
While beef cooks, prepare tzatziki and cucumber-tomato salad
Remove baking sheet from oven and place pitas on it
Bake for 2-3 minutes until slightly warmed and pliable
Place pitas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 10-15 seconds per side to enhance structure
Fill warmed pitas with cooked beef, tzatziki, and cucumber-tomato salad
Garnish with herbs if desired and serve immediately
Notes
For a gluten-free version, substitute pita bread with 100% whole wheat wraps or certified gluten-free flatbread
Tzatziki can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days
For added crunch, sprinkle pita pockets with a bit of salt before serving