Quinoa And Vegetable Stir-Fry

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering how to whip up a quick, healthy, and delicious meal, this quinoa and vegetable stir-fry might just be your new best friend.

It’s packed with vibrant veggies, nutty quinoa, and a savory sauce that ties everything together perfectly. This recipe is great for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re just in the mood for something light yet satisfying.

I love this recipe because it’s so flexible. You can use whatever veggies you have in your fridge, making it perfect for clearing out leftovers. Plus, quinoa is a powerhouse grain, it’s full of protein, gluten-free, and incredibly filling.

And if you’re looking for a recipe that works year-round, this is it. In the summer, load it up with zucchini and bell peppers; in the colder months, swap in broccoli and carrots.

No matter the season, this quinoa stir-fry is sure to be a hit at your table.

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Why You’ll Love It

• Quick and easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Super healthy: Packed with fiber, protein, and vitamins, it’s a meal you can feel good about eating.
• Customizable: You can swap the veggies or add your favorite protein, like tofu, shrimp, or chicken.
• Perfect for meal prep: It reheats beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

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Ingredients

For the Quinoa

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (if using water)

For the Stir-Fry

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or sesame oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 large carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup snap peas
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds (optional)
• A squeeze of fresh lime juice

More Recipes >>>>>> Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry

Kitchen Tools Needed

Before you start, make sure you have these tools on hand to make cooking easy and enjoyable:

• Medium saucepan (for cooking quinoa)
• Large skillet or wok (for stir-frying veggies)
• Cutting board and knife (for chopping vegetables)
• Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine-mesh strainer (for rinsing quinoa)

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Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitterness.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of quinoa and 2 cups of water (or vegetable broth). Add a pinch of salt if using water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa absorbs all the liquid.
4. Once cooked, fluff the quinoa with a fork and set it aside.

Step 2: Prep the Veggies

1. While the quinoa cooks, wash and chop all the vegetables as listed in the ingredient section.

Step 3: Stir-fry the Veggies

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cooked quinoa.
2. Add the soy sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), sesame oil (optional), and black pepper. Stir well to coat the quinoa and vegetables evenly.
3. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh finish.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Tips and Tricks for Success

1. Rinse the quinoa: Always rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove its natural coating, which can taste bitter.
2. Cut veggies evenly: Try to cut your vegetables into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
3. Don’t overcook the veggies: Keep an eye on your stir-fry to make sure the vegetables stay crisp-tender.
4. Adjust the sauce: Taste your stir-fry before serving and adjust the soy sauce or seasonings if needed.
5. Add protein: For extra protein, stir in cooked tofu, chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
6. Meal prep tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop.
7. Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or drizzle some sriracha for a spicy kick!

With these tips, your quinoa and vegetable stir-fry will turn out perfect every time.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this quinoa and vegetable stir-fry is how versatile it is. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Quinoa alternatives: Replace quinoa with brown rice, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
• Veggies: Swap out the listed vegetables with what you have on hand—like mushrooms, spinach, green beans, or asparagus. Frozen vegetables can also work in a pinch!
• Soy sauce: Use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative.
• Hoisin sauce: If you don’t have hoisin, a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup can add a similar sweetness.
• Oil: Substitute olive oil with avocado oil or skip it entirely for a lower-fat version by sautéing veggies in water or broth.
• Make it creamy: Add a dollop of tahini or peanut butter to the sauce for a creamy twist.
• Add protein: Include cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, tempeh, or even scrambled eggs for extra protein.

More Recipes >>>>> Chicken And Asparagus Stir Fry

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Serving Suggestions

This quinoa and vegetable stir-fry is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with other dishes to create a fuller spread:

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Top with a fried egg for a breakfast-style twist.
• Pair it with spring rolls or dumplings for an Asian-inspired dinner.
• Add a side of miso soup or roasted sweet potatoes for extra comfort.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: You can freeze the stir-fry for up to 1 month. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag.

Reheating:

• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1–2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm the stir-fry in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.

More Recipes >>>>> Pineapple Chicken Stir Fry

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FAQ

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Cook the quinoa and chop the veggies in advance, then store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, quickly stir-fry the veggies and combine them with the quinoa for a fresh, hot meal.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this recipe is completely gluten-free.

Q: Can I make this dish spicy?
A: Definitely! Add chili flakes, sriracha, or diced fresh chili peppers to the stir-fry for a kick of heat.

Q: What if I don’t have all the vegetables listed?
A: No problem! This recipe is very flexible—use whatever vegetables you have on hand, whether fresh, frozen, or even canned.

Q: Can I serve this cold as a salad?
A: Yes, this dish works great as a cold quinoa salad. Just let it cool and toss with a little extra dressing before serving.

Enjoy your vibrant, healthy, and versatile quinoa and vegetable stir-fry! It’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

This recipe is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the fresh vegetables and provides plant-based protein and fiber from the quinoa. It’s a wholesome, nutrient-dense meal perfect for lunch or dinner!

Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!