Elevate your weeknight meals with this vibrant Quinoa Spinach and Walnut Stir Fry, a deliciously wholesome dish bursting with nutty, earthy, and zesty flavors. Featuring nutrient-packed quinoa as the protein-rich base, this quick recipe comes together in just 30 minutes and is a perfect balance of tender sautéed spinach, crunch from toasted walnuts, and a tantalizing hint of garlic and lemon. A splash of soy sauce adds depth, while a touch of red pepper flakes brings a gentle kick to every bite. Ideal as a light vegetarian main or hearty side dish, this dish is as versatile as it is healthy. Serve it warm, topped with extra walnuts or a dash of spice for a truly satisfying finish. Keywords: quinoa recipes, healthy stir fry, spinach stir fry, vegetarian meal, quick dinner ideas.
Rinse quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness. Drain well.
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
While the quinoa cooks, chop the garlic cloves finely and set aside. Rinse and drain the spinach. Roughly chop the walnuts into bite-sized pieces.
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and swirl to coat the surface.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn it.
Add the spinach to the pan and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted, about 3 minutes.
Toss the cooked quinoa into the skillet with the spinach and stir to combine evenly.
Add the chopped walnuts, lemon juice, soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors evenly.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the ingredients to heat through and the flavors to meld together.
Remove from heat and serve warm. Optionally, garnish with extra walnuts or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added texture and heat.
Calories |
1662 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 119.0 g | 153% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.8 g | 59% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 59.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 3072 mg | 134% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 114.2 g | 42% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.4 g | 37% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.2 g | ||
| Protein | 47.0 g | 94% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 259 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 10.2 mg | 57% | |
| Potassium | 1366 mg | 29% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.