Veggie-Packed Quinoa Fried Rice Recipe for Flavorful Meals

This straightforward, nutrient-dense quinoa fried rice is loaded with vegetables and bold flavors. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that works well for busy evenings.

Ingredients

• 2 tsp oil (any kind; sesame oil works well)
• 1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
• ½ tsp salt
• 4 tsp toasted sesame oil, divided
• 24 oz frozen broccoli, thawed (see note)
• 1 large zucchini, diced small
• 1 large yellow squash, diced small
• 8 oz baby Bella (cremini) or white mushrooms, sliced
• 3.5 oz oyster mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup frozen shelled edamame, thawed
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
• 1 (2-inch) piece fresh ginger, grated
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ¼ cup tamari (or to taste)
• 2 tbsp coconut aminos
• Optional toppings:
• Tofu (pan-fried or prepared as you like)
• Chopped cashews or salted peanuts
• Sriracha
• White or black sesame seeds

Instructions

1. To prepare the quinoa: heat 2 tsp oil in a medium saucepan. Add the quinoa and cook over medium heat 1–2 minutes, stirring to coat with oil. Add 1 1/3 cups water and ½ tsp salt. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer 15–20 minutes until water is absorbed and quinoa is tender. Remove from heat, let rest covered 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Set aside.
2. Meanwhile, heat 2 tsp toasted sesame oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok. Add the thawed broccoli and cook over medium-high heat 3–5 minutes, tossing often, until it reaches your preferred tenderness. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
3. Heat the remaining 2 tsp sesame oil in the same skillet. Add the zucchini, yellow squash, and mushrooms. Cook over medium-high heat 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are cooked through but still vibrant.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add the cooked broccoli, edamame, corn, grated ginger, garlic, cooked quinoa, tamari, and coconut aminos. Toss to combine and cook another 2–3 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors. Adjust tamari to taste.

Fresh broccoli can replace frozen, but expect a slightly longer cooking time.