There’s something magical about opening a classic takeout box filled with fried rice. This Quinoa Fried Rice recipe brings that same comfort with a healthier, protein-packed twist. Among the many fried rice recipes out there, this one swaps fluffy quinoa for rice but keeps all the familiar flavors you love—takeout box optional, comfort guaranteed.
The way fried rice spills out of a takeout box, it's like edible confetti made of veggies, egg, and flavor. This homemade quinoa fried rice brings that same joy to your plate but swaps out white rice for fluffy, protein-packed quinoa.
Quinoa is a complete plant-based protein with all nine essential amino acids, kind of like what you get in red meat, but it’s totally plant-based. It’s also loaded with fiber, iron, magnesium, and antioxidants that help with digestion, heart health, and energy.
So with this swap, you get all the savory, umami flavor and the satisfying texture of fried rice plus a big boost in nutrition. Trust me, you may not even miss opening up the take-out box.😉
For an even more amazing weeknight meal with complementary flavors, try making my fresh Spring Rolls recipe too. The crisp veggies and tangy dipping sauce pair perfectly with this quinoa fried rice.
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Ingredients
This quinoa fried rice uses basic ingredients you likely have at home. Feel free to add or swap veggies to match your favorite takeout flavors.
- White Quinoa
- Carrots
- Baby Corn
- Peas
- Onion
- Garlic
- Soy Sauce
See recipe card for quantities.
Healthy Fried Rice Recipes for Chinese New Year Celebrations
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with a nutritious twist on a classic dish. This quinoa fried rice recipe brings all the festive flavors you expect but adds extra protein and fiber.
Creative ways to serve quinoa fried rice at holiday parties
Finally, think about presentation. Serving your quinoa fried rice in mini takeout boxes or colorful bowls adds a festive touch that’s perfect for Lunar New Year gatherings.
Pairings for a complete Lunar New Year feast
Complete the meal by pairing your fried rice with this signature drink, Dragrrrita and these Spring Rolls, creating a well-rounded celebration plate everyone will enjoy.
Is Quinoa Fried Rice Healthy? Nutrition Facts Explained
Quinoa isn’t just a tasty rice swap. It’s a complete protein packed with fiber, iron, and magnesium that helps keep you energized and satisfied. Adding plenty of colorful vegetables boosts the flavor and gives you extra vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to keep your meal balanced and nutritious—all while keeping the delicious flavors you love.
Storage
You can store quinoa fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Real Tip
Using day-old quinoa works just like day-old rice—it gives the dish a better texture and makes meal prep easier. I also start with a smaller amount of quinoa first so it’s easier to season and stir without all the veggies sinking to the bottom.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite drinks to serve with Spring Rolls:
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📖 Recipe
Quinoa Fried Rice
Ingredients
- 2 cups White Quinoa, cooked according to package *Yields approximately 6 cups. See notes.
- 2 Eggs, scrambled
- 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
- ¼ cup Onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Ginger, grated
- ¾ cup Carrots, finely chopped
- ¾ cup Green Peas, cooked
- ¾ cup Baby Corn, chopped
- pinch White Pepper
- 2 tablespoon Vegetable Oil
- 3 tablespoon Soy Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil
Instructions
- Cook Quinoa according to package. Yields 6 cups cooked.
- Scramble the eggs and put to the side. Do not prep the eggs until the Quinoa is ready so that you can quickly proceed to next steps.
- Once your Quinoa is cooked and cooled a bit, heat the oil in a large skillet or sauté pan.
- Add the chopped onions and carrots and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, until they begin to soften. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and a pinch of white pepper, and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add the baby corn and peas, stir and cook the mixture together for 5 to 6 minutes over medium heat.
- Add 4 cups of the cooked quinoa to the pan. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, but let the quinoa sit undisturbed for a minute or two at a time to develop some crispy spots. *I like to start with a smaller amount of quinoa so it’s easier to season evenly and mix without all the veggies sinking to the bottom. It gives you more control at this stage.
- Add the remaining cooked quinoa and mix thoroughly. Season with additional white pepper, soy sauce, and sesame oil to taste. Stir well to combine. Allow everything to cook evenly, stirring occasionally.
- Turn off the heat and gently fold the scrambled eggs into the quinoa fried rice. Stir to evenly incorporate the eggs throughout. Serve and Enjoy!
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