If you're on the hunt for a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious meal, look no further than this Thai Quinoa Fried Rice! Bursting with vibrant colors and flavors, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of nutrients that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a delightful fusion of quinoa and fresh vegetables, all enhanced by the zesty kick of lime and the savory depth of soy sauce. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, cooked
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Typically, rinse 1 cup of quinoa and combine with 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
- Heat sesame oil in a large wok or wide skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp and slightly caramelized, maintaining their vibrant colors.
- Add the cooked quinoa to the skillet, stirring continuously to prevent sticking. Spread the quinoa evenly across the pan to create a slightly crispy texture.
- Pour soy sauce and lime juice over the quinoa mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure even coating and flavor distribution.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue stirring and cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot as a nutritious and flavorful main dish or side.
Tips
- Perfect Your Quinoa: Rinse your quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness. Use a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio for fluffy results.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables! Broccoli, snap peas, or even corn can add a delightful twist to the dish.
- High Heat is Key: When stir-frying, ensure your skillet is hot enough. This helps achieve that perfect crispy texture without overcooking the veggies.
- Customize Your Sauce: Adjust the soy sauce and lime juice to suit your taste. For an extra kick, add a splash of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Leftover Magic: This dish makes for fantastic leftovers! Store in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy it cold or reheated for lunch the next day.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
