Make Ahead Mediterranean Summer Stew

Ingredients:

• 5 lbs stewing beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 2 large yellow onions, diced
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 56 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 6 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 large zucchini, sliced into ⅓-inch rounds
• 4 large red bell peppers, cut into 1-inch squares
• 1 cup pitted Kalamata olives
• 6 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (divided)
• Additional sea salt and black pepper, to taste

To Serve:

• Your choice of pasta, noodles, mashed potatoes, rice, crusty bread, or a green salad

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:
   • Season the beef with 2 teaspoons of coarse sea salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper.
   • Heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
   • Brown the beef in batches, ensuring all sides are seared. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
   • Add the diced onions and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Prepare the Stew Base:
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth.
   • Return the browned beef to the pot along with any juices.
   • Add the chopped rosemary and red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
4. Incorporate the Vegetables:
   • Add the zucchini slices, red bell pepper squares, and pitted Kalamata olives to the pot.
   • Simmer uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
5. Finish the Stew:
   • Adjust the seasoning with additional sea salt and black pepper if needed.
   • Stir in 4 tablespoons of the fresh parsley.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the stew hot, garnished with the remaining 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley.
   • Accompany with your choice of pasta, noodles, mashed potatoes, rice, crusty bread, or a green salad.