Iron-Rich Beef & Spinach Bowl

This colorful, satisfying bowl combines tender beef, spinach, peppers, and whole grains for a delicious meal naturally rich in iron. Pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C–rich vegetables can also help your body absorb more iron.

Ingredients

1 lb lean beef, cut into bite-size pieces
4 cups fresh spinach
1 red bell pepper, sliced

½ red onion, sliced
1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
Juice of ½ lemon

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and season with smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the garlic, red onion, and bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until slightly softened.
4. Add the spinach and cook until just wilted.
5. Divide the cooked quinoa or brown rice between bowls and top with the beef and vegetable mixture.
6. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.

Why This Meal is Iron Rich

Beef provides heme iron, a form of iron that is easily absorbed by the body. Spinach adds additional iron, while the vitamin C in bell peppers and fresh lemon help your body absorb more iron from the meal.