If you are craving a dish that is vibrant, packed with flavor, and downright satisfying, the Beef Bowl with Veggies and Pico de Gallo Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight treat. This colorful bowl delivers savory ground beef cooked to perfection, combined with crisp, tender veggies, all topped off with a fresh, zesty pico de gallo that brings such a bright contrast it will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a balanced, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the rich, juicy ground beef to the crisp bell peppers and broccoli, and the fresh, tangy pico de gallo, every component works together to create a deliciously harmonious dish.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes this bowl so satisfying.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a mild fruitiness and helps cook the veggies and beef evenly.
- 1 bell pepper, sliced: Brings crisp texture and sweetness to the mix.
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Adds a fresh green pop and a nutritious crunch.
- 1 small onion, sliced: Provides depth and sweetness when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a warm, aromatic backbone.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all flavors together.
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced: Juicy base for the vibrant pico de gallo topping.
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a mild pungency to the pico de gallo.
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced: Gives the pico de gallo a gentle kick.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Infuses bright, herbal notes.
- Juice of 1 lime: Brings an uplifting zest that wakes up the fresh salsa.
- Salt to taste: Balances the acidity and enhances all ingredients in the pico.
- Cooked rice or quinoa, to serve: Acts as the perfect hearty base to soak up all the flavors.
How to Make Beef Bowl with Veggies and Pico de Gallo Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, cooking gently until they become translucent and fragrant. This simple step unlocks deep flavor and creates the perfect foundation for the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart and cook until it’s fully browned and releases those rich, savory aromas. Season with salt and pepper here to start layering the seasoning early on.
Step 3: Add the Veggies
Now it’s time to bring in the color and crunch. Toss in the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets, sautéing until the vegetables are tender yet still have a satisfying crispness. This balance keeps the dish fresh and lively.
Step 4: Prepare the Pico de Gallo
While the beef and veggies cook, combine diced tomatoes, finely chopped onion, minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Stir it all together to create that bright, refreshing pico de gallo that will top your bowl perfectly.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowl
Serve the warm beef and veggie mixture over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa. Finally, crown each serving with a generous spoonful of your homemade pico de gallo for a fresh, zesty finish that ties every element together beautifully.
How to Serve Beef Bowl with Veggies and Pico de Gallo Recipe
Garnishes
For extra flair, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime over the top. If you like a bit of creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or some sliced avocado pairs wonderfully with the flavors here. These simple garnishes elevate the dish and make it picture-perfect.
Side Dishes
This beef bowl is pretty balanced on its own, but if you want to create a full meal, consider serving it with crunchy tortilla chips, a light green salad, or even some grilled corn on the cob. These sides add texture contrast and keep the meal vibrant and fun.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this beef bowl inside hollowed-out bell peppers for a fun, edible presentation. You can also layer all the ingredients in mason jars for an eye-catching meal prep option that looks as good as it tastes. These ideas make the dish perfect for entertaining or lunches on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pico de gallo separate until serving to maintain its fresh texture and brightness.
Freezing
If you’d like to freeze portions, the beef and veggie mixture freezes well in sealed containers for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and add fresh pico de gallo after reheating for the best flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through, then spoon the fresh pico de gallo on top. This way, the bright, fresh flavors remain vibrant and the veggies don’t get soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different vegetables in this beef bowl?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms to suit your taste or what you have on hand. The recipe is very adaptable and welcomes your favorite veggies.
Is this recipe gluten free?
Yes, the Beef Bowl with Veggies and Pico de Gallo Recipe is naturally gluten free, especially if you serve it with gluten-free grains like quinoa or certified gluten-free rice.
Can I make the pico de gallo less spicy?
Definitely! You can reduce or omit the jalapeño to tone down the heat, or leave the seeds in for a bit more spice depending on your preference.
What’s a good protein substitute if I don’t eat beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles make fantastic alternatives without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s excellent for meal prepping! Just keep the pico de gallo separate until ready to eat for the freshest taste and texture, and you’ll have quick, tasty meals ready all week long.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Beef Bowl with Veggies and Pico de Gallo Recipe enough—it’s one of those meals that is as joyful to make as it is to eat. Full of fresh ingredients, bright flavors, and so much heart, it’s perfect for bringing a little excitement and warmth to your dinner table. Give it a try soon, and you may just find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.
Print
Beef Bowl with Veggies and Pico de Gallo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Description
A flavorful and quick Beef Bowl with sautéed vegetables and fresh, zesty Pico de Gallo, perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner served over rice or quinoa.
Ingredients
For the Beef Bowl
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pico de Gallo
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt to taste
To Serve
- Cooked rice or quinoa, to serve
Instructions
- Prepare aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing until they become soft and translucent, releasing their flavors.
- Cook the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sauté vegetables: Incorporate the sliced bell pepper and broccoli florets into the skillet with the beef. Continue sautéing until the vegetables are tender-crisp, preserving their texture and color.
- Make Pico de Gallo: In a separate bowl, mix diced tomatoes, finely chopped onion, minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Stir well to combine all fresh ingredients into a vibrant salsa.
- Assemble and serve: Serve the savory beef and vegetable mixture over cooked rice or quinoa. Top generously with the fresh pico de gallo for a bright, refreshing contrast.
Notes
- To add extra heat, leave some or all of the jalapeño seeds in the pico de gallo.
- Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier, fiber-rich base.
- Customize vegetables as desired, such as adding zucchini or mushrooms.
- This dish reheats well and can be meal prepped for busy weekdays.
- For a lower-fat option, substitute ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
