Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Metropolitan Kitchen & Lounge›Choose 2 Recipe

Choose 2 Recipe

Inspired by Metropolitan Kitchen & Lounge
Time40m
Serves4

Make Choose 2 Recipe in just 40m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Base Ingredients

Vegetable Choices

Protein Options

Seasoning and Dressing

Method

Cooking the Quinoa

  1. 1

    Rinse the Quinoa

    Place the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and rinse it under cold running water for about 2 minutes to remove the bitter coating called saponin.

  2. 2

    Cook the Quinoa

    In a medium pot, combine the rinsed quinoa and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Preparing the Vegetables

  1. 3

    Chop the Vegetables

    While the quinoa is cooking, chop your chosen vegetables. You can choose any two from the vegetable choices provided. Dice the bell pepper, slice the zucchini, shred the carrot, or chop the spinach as desired.

  2. 4

    Sauté the Vegetables

    In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are tender. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.

Adding Protein

  1. 5

    Prepare the Protein

    If using tofu, press it to remove excess moisture and cut it into cubes. If using chickpeas, drain and rinse them well.

  2. 6

    Combine Protein with Vegetables

    Add the chickpeas or tofu to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to heat through.

Final Assembly

  1. 7

    Mix Everything Together

    In a large bowl, fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork. Add the sautéed vegetables and protein mixture to the quinoa.

  2. 8

    Dress the Salad

    In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil and lemon juice. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss everything together until well combined.

  3. 9

    Serve

    Spoon the quinoa salad onto plates or into bowls. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your healthy and customizable meal!

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