Vegetable Fried Quinoa

Name: Vegetable Fried Quinoa
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked quinoa; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers); 2 green onions, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: 2 eggs, beaten (for added protein)

Highlighted under: Fresh & Fit

I absolutely love making Vegetable Fried Quinoa! It’s the perfect way to use up leftover quinoa and a rainbow of veggies. Each bite is vibrant and bursting with flavor, plus it's incredibly easy to whip up in under 30 minutes. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a wholesome side dish, this recipe has you covered. I appreciate how versatile it is, allowing me to customize the mix of vegetables based on what I have on hand, making it a go-to in my kitchen.

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:36:35.352Z

When I first tried Vegetable Fried Quinoa, I couldn’t believe how much flavor it packed into such a simple dish. I love how the quinoa becomes slightly crispy in the pan, absorbing the soy sauce and the natural sweetness from the veggies. To enhance the taste even further, I add a splash of sesame oil at the end, which really elevates the dish to another level.

One of the best parts is its adaptability! I often switch up vegetables based on what’s in season. From bell peppers to zucchini and even some leafy greens, it always turns out delicious. I like to throw in some scrambled eggs for added protein, but it’s just as good as a vegan option too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious and colorful dish that's rich in vegetables
Quick and easy, ready in just 30 minutes
Versatile recipe great for using leftovers or whatever veggies you have on hand

Maximizing Flavor and Texture

The key to achieving that delightful crispy texture in your Vegetable Fried Quinoa lies in properly sautéing the vegetables. After heating your skillet and adding the vegetable oil, allow the garlic to become fragrant before introducing the mixed vegetables. Keep the heat at medium-high to ensure they cook swiftly while maintaining their crunch. This method ensures that the veggies retain their vibrant colors and don’t become soggy.

When adding the cooked quinoa to the skillet, be sure to break up any clumps to promote even heating and distribution. Stir continuously to achieve a slight toast on the quinoa, which enhances its nuttiness. You can also let the mixture sit undisturbed for a minute before stirring, allowing the bottom to develop a golden crust, enriching the overall flavor profile.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, inviting you to customize it based on your pantry's contents. For example, if you have fresh broccoli, zucchini, or corn, feel free to mix those in as well. If you prefer a plant-based protein, consider adding firm tofu, cubed and sautéed until golden, or chickpeas for added texture and heartiness. The flavor enhances significantly with the right vegetable combo, so don't hesitate to experiment.

Soy sauce is a classic addition for seasoning, but feel free to swap it with tamari for a gluten-free version or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. Be mindful of the saltiness of these substitutes; you may need to adjust accordingly to achieve the perfect balance in flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Vegetable Fried Quinoa:

Ingredients

1 cup cooked quinoa
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
2 green onions, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 2 eggs, beaten (for added protein)

Once you have everything ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your Vegetable Fried Quinoa:

Prepare the ingredients

Ensure that your quinoa is already cooked and cooled. Chop all the vegetables and keep them ready.

Cook the vegetables

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and mixed vegetables. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until they're tender.

Add quinoa

Stir in the cooked quinoa, breaking up any clumps. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Season the dish

Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing everything well. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Add eggs (optional)

If adding eggs, push the quinoa mixture to one side, pour the beaten eggs in the skillet, scramble them briefly, then mix everything together until the eggs are fully cooked.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.

Enjoy your homemade Vegetable Fried Quinoa!

Pro Tips

Try adding some chili flakes if you love a bit of heat, or toss in some nuts for extra crunch.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Vegetable Fried Quinoa is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth to prevent it from drying out and enhance moisture.

If you're looking to freeze the dish, portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it on the stovetop, or microwave it in short bursts, stirring frequently until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Vegetable Fried Quinoa, consider serving it with a side of sesame ginger dressing or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. You can also top it with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to add an aromatic touch. If craving a little heat, a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil can make the dish pop with flavor.

Alternatively, pair the quinoa with grilled chicken or shrimp to create a more substantial meal. The light and fluffy texture of the quinoa complements the protein beautifully, making for a satisfying and well-rounded dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other grains instead of quinoa?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with rice or another grain of your choice.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, if you omit the eggs, it’s completely vegan.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can include any vegetables you like; broccoli, spinach, or snap peas work great too!