Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice

Name: Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rice; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love whipping up this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice when I crave a cozy, satisfying dish. The combination of spinach, tomatoes, and creamy rice creates a delightful flavor profile that’s both comforting and refreshing. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens while still enjoying a hearty meal. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. Let's dive in and make this deliciously creamy dish!

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:52:12.969Z

When I first tried making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was amazed by how much flavor came from such simple ingredients. Using fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes, I quickly realized that sautéing them together released natural juices that enhanced the dish. It was a revelation that changed my perspective on combining vegetables with rice.

One tip I've learned is to let the rice absorb the flavors for a few extra minutes once it’s cooked. This ensures that every grain is infused with richness and creaminess, making each bite utterly delicious. Trust me, this dish will become your go-to for an easy yet impressive meal!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that perfectly envelops each grain of rice
Nutritious spinach and juicy tomatoes complement each other beautifully
Quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner

      

Mastering the Cooking Process

To achieve the best texture for your rice, it's essential to rinse it under cold water before cooking. This removes excess starch and helps prevent the grains from clumping together. Rinse until the water runs clear, then drain fully. After sautéing the aromatics, adding the rice directly to the pan allows it to absorb the flavors of garlic and onion, contributing to the overall depth of the dish.

As you simmer the rice, keep an eye on the liquid level. If it appears to be drying out before the rice becomes tender, simply add a splash more vegetable broth. Fluffing the rice with a fork after it's cooked will help to separate the grains and ensure a light, creamy consistency, which is crucial for that indulgent mouthfeel when combined with the cream.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

Beyond the foundational spinach and tomatoes, feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas. These additions can enhance both the flavor and nutrition of your dish. For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes during the sautéing step—it pairs beautifully with the creaminess and provides a delightful kick.

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with a coconut milk alternative. Just ensure you choose a quality product to prevent the dish from becoming overly sweet, and balance it with a splash of lemon juice to cut through the richness. This swap not only maintains the creamy texture but also adds a lovely tropical twist.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients to make your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Main Ingredients

1 cup rice
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)

Make sure to have your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare a delicious Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and tomatoes soften.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the pan and stir to coat. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked.

Incorporate Cream

Once the rice is fluffy, stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes for a creamy consistency.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy creation!

Don’t forget to share this delicious recipe with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding your favorite herbs such as basil or thyme during the cooking process.

Storage Tips

Once prepared, Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld over time, making it just as enjoyable for leftovers. When reheating, simply add a splash of broth or water to restore the creamy texture and prevent it from drying out in the microwave or on the stovetop.

If you’d like to make this dish ahead of time, consider prepping the vegetables and cooking the rice separately. Mix them together just before serving and incorporate the cream at that point. This way, freshness is maintained, and the creamy texture can be perfected right before your meal.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with a protein of your choice. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even crispy tofu elevate the meal while complementing the flavors of the creamy rice. To add freshness, serve with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, which balances the richness of the rice.

For a spectacular presentation, try garnishing your dish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Not only do they add a pop of color, but the aromatic qualities also enhance the dish’s flavor profile. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil before serving can further enrich the overall experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and the amount of broth since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a rich, dairy-free alternative.

→ Can other vegetables be added?

Definitely! Feel free to include bell peppers, zucchini, or peas to enhance the dish with more flavor and nutrients.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.