Asian “Fried Rice” with Quinoa

This recipe is a healthy alternative to the fried rice you may order from Chinese takeout. Quinoa is higher in protein and fiber compared to white rice too! This recipe comes to us from our friends at Dole.

Serves 4

Cooking Tip of the Week: Cooking quinoa is simple. For every part of quinoa, use two parts of water. Add both the quinoa and water to a saucepan and cook at a simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until all of the water is used up.  Fluff with a fork and serve!

Food for Thought: Have you ever eaten dried rice or quinoa that you buy at the store? No, of course not! Quinoa grains, just like rice grains need to be cooked in boiling water before they can be eaten. This softens the grains so that they are yummier to eat. The fiber in quinoa attracts water, which causes the grain to swell and expand. Quinoa actually expands to three times its original size after it cooks!

Family Dinner Conversation Starter: If you could magically transform into any animal, what would you want to be and why?

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil
• 1 cup sliced green onions
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
• 2 tablespoons chopped garlic
• 3 cups cooked quinoa
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 1 Asian style salad kit
• 1/2 cup shelled edamame
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Directions:

Adult: Heat grapeseed oil over medium-high heat.

Together: Add onions, ginger, and garlic; sauté until wilted.

Adult: Stir in quinoa and eggs; stir 2 minutes or until eggs are cooked. Remove from heat.

Kid: Add salad, dressing from salad kit, edamame, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

Together: Toss to blend. Sprinkle with cilantro. Serve with wontons and almonds from salad kit.