If you’re craving the comforting flavors of your favorite takeout but want a healthier twist, this Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Packed with fluffy, protein-rich quinoa instead of traditional rice, this dish offers a vibrant medley of tender vegetables, scrambled eggs, and savory sauces that come together in just 15 minutes. It’s a colorful, nutritious, and downright delicious way to enjoy fried rice with an energizing boost that’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a satisfying meal without the guilt.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe relies on a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that each add their own important flair. From crunchy carrots and sweet peas to fragrant garlic and green onions, every component works harmoniously to create that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color on your plate.
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided: Adds a rich, creamy base and helps caramelize veggies for extra flavor.
- 2 eggs, whisked: Provides protein and a soft, silky texture that melds with the quinoa.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced: Adds sweetness and crunch to brighten the dish.
- 1 small white onion, diced: Offers a sharp, savory depth when sautéed to softness.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas: Brings a pop of green color and a slight sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers aromatic warmth that elevates every bite.
- Salt and pepper: Essentials for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- 4 cups cooked and chilled quinoa: The protein-packed star of the dish, fluffy and light for a wonderful fried rice alternative.
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced: Adds a fresh, crisp bite and vibrant color.
- 3-4 tablespoons soy sauce, or more to taste: Brings umami richness and seasoning depth.
- 2 teaspoons oyster sauce (optional): For an extra layer of savory complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: A finishing touch that imparts a toasty, nutty aroma.
How to Make Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Scramble the Eggs
Start by melting 1/2 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pour in the whisked eggs and cook gently, stirring occasionally until they’re just scrambled. Transfer these soft, fluffy eggs onto a separate plate so they’re ready to fold in later. This gives the eggs a tender texture that won’t overcook later when you stir them in with the quinoa.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, add another tablespoon of butter to your skillet and let it melt. Toss in the diced carrots, onion, frozen peas, and minced garlic. Be generous with salt and pepper here — these seasonings bring out the natural sweetness and depth of your veggies. Sauté everything for about 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and the carrots start to soften, creating a colorful and fragrant base for your dish.
Step 3: Fry the Quinoa
Turn the heat up to high and add the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter. Once it’s melted, immediately add in the chilled cooked quinoa along with the sliced green onions, soy sauce, and oyster sauce if you’re using it. Stir everything thoroughly to evenly coat the quinoa with that luscious buttery sauce. Fry the quinoa mixture for about 3 minutes, letting it get slightly golden and flavorful.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Finally, add the scrambled eggs back into the skillet. Gently fold everything together so the eggs are distributed throughout. Drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the top, stir once more, then remove from heat. The sesame oil adds that perfect finishing hint of smokiness and richness that brings this Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe all together.
How to Serve Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate a dish from tasty to truly memorable. Try sprinkling extra sliced green onions or even a few toasted sesame seeds on top for crunch and a vibrant look. If you like a little heat, a light drizzle of chili oil or some red pepper flakes works beautifully.
Side Dishes
For a complete meal, pair your quinoa fried rice with simple sides like steamed edamame, a crisp cucumber salad, or lightly stir-fried bok choy. These fresh, crunchy sides complement the warm, savory rice and keep your meal balanced and exciting.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests or brighten your weeknight dinner? Serve this dish inside halved bell peppers or line it in lettuce cups for a fun wrap-style bite. You could even stuff it into an omelet for a breakfast twist, making this Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe as versatile as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover quinoa fried rice to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it ideal for meal prep without losing much of its fresh flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish in portions for up to one month. Spread it out on a baking sheet to cool first, then pack into freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the quinoa’s texture intact.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if it feels a bit dry. Stir frequently to warm evenly and revive that fresh-out-of-the-pan taste of your Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa in this recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice makes a great substitute if you prefer traditional grains, though quinoa adds that extra protein punch and a unique nutty flavor that sets this dish apart.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Quinoa itself is gluten-free, but be sure to check your soy sauce and oyster sauce labels, as some brands contain gluten. For a gluten-free version, substitute tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Bell peppers, snap peas, corn, or mushrooms all work wonderfully in this recipe. Just dice them small to ensure even cooking during the sauté step.
What’s the best way to cook quinoa for this recipe?
Rinse quinoa thoroughly to remove its natural bitterness, then cook it with a 2:1 water to quinoa ratio. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy. Chill before using for the best texture in your fried rice.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Skip the eggs and replace butter with a plant-based oil like avocado or coconut oil. Use a vegan oyster sauce or omit it altogether, and you’ll have a delicious vegan Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe ready in no time.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about this Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe that makes it a standout in any weeknight lineup. From its quick prep and nutritious ingredients to the delightful harmony of flavors and textures, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. So why not give it a try today and savor the perfect blend of health and homemade comfort!
Print
Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Delicious and protein-packed quinoa fried ‘rice’ that captures all the flavors of traditional fried rice, but made healthier with quinoa instead of white rice. This quick and easy recipe features sautéed vegetables, scrambled eggs, and a savory blend of soy and oyster sauces, perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 eggs, whisked
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 small white onion, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups cooked and chilled quinoa
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 3–4 tablespoons soy sauce, or more to taste
- 2 teaspoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Instructions
- Scramble the eggs: Heat 1/2 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted. Add the whisked eggs and cook, stirring occasionally, until scrambled and cooked through. Remove the scrambled eggs from the skillet and transfer them to a separate plate to set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: To the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and heat until melted. Add the diced carrots, onion, frozen peas, and minced garlic. Season with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the onions and carrots are soft and fragrant.
- Add quinoa and sauces: Increase the heat to high and add the remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter. Stir until melted. Quickly add the cooked quinoa, sliced green onions, soy sauce, and oyster sauce if using. Stir well to combine all ingredients, and continue cooking for an additional 3 minutes, stirring frequently to fry the quinoa evenly and enhance the flavors.
- Combine eggs and finish: Add the cooked scrambled eggs back into the skillet and stir to combine everything thoroughly. Drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the mixture, stir once more, and remove the skillet from heat.
- Serve: Serve the quinoa fried “rice” warm as a delicious and nutritious meal.
Notes
- Using chilled quinoa helps to achieve a better fried rice texture by preventing clumping.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the oyster sauce or replace it with mushroom sauce.
- You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein if desired.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity to control saltiness according to your taste.
- Toast the sesame oil gently before adding to release its full flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
