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 (uncooked); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice on busy weeknights. It's a dish that comes together quickly and is bursting with flavor. The combination of creamy sauce, fresh spinach, and vibrant tomatoes not only satisfies my cravings but also makes me feel good about what I'm eating. I often serve it as a hearty side, but it's so filling that it can stand alone as a main course. Plus, it's a fantastic way to sneak more greens into our meals!

Created by

Isla Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:34:14.099Z

When I first experimented with Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was amazed at how the dish transformed with just a few simple ingredients. Using fresh spinach added a vibrant color and a nutritious boost. I found that sautéing the garlic and tomatoes before adding the rice created a depth of flavor that you can't achieve by just tossing everything together. It was a game-changer!

One little tip I learned along the way is to let the rice simmer gently in the creamy sauce for a few minutes at the end. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that's rich and satisfying. The leftovers also reheat wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory creaminess that wraps around every grain of rice
Nutritious spinach gives a fresh twist to a classic comfort food
Quick, one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights

      

Choosing the Right Rice

The choice of rice plays a vital role in the texture of Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. Long-grain varieties like basmati will yield a fluffier dish, while short-grain rice, such as arborio, will create a creamier consistency due to its higher starch content. If you prefer a healthier option, brown rice is an excellent choice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time to around 30-35 minutes and increase the vegetable broth to 2.5 cups for optimal results.

For those with dietary restrictions, quinoa can be used instead of rice. To adapt the recipe, simply rinse the quinoa before adding it to the skillet, and reduce the broth to 1.5 cups as quinoa doesn't absorb as much liquid. Upon cooking, you'll achieve a protein-rich alternative that harmonizes beautifully with the creamy spinach and tomatoes.

Enhancing Flavor and Texture

Infusing more flavor into the dish is easy with a few strategic additions. Consider adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes right after sautéing the onions and garlic for an extra kick. You can also incorporate a splash of balsamic vinegar before adding the spinach, which will deepen the flavor profile of the tomatoes and give an uplifting tang that pairs wonderfully with the cream.

To elevate the creaminess, you might experiment with different types of cheese. Instead of traditional Parmesan, goat cheese or feta can be added for a tangy twist. Simply crumble it into the dish just before serving, allowing it to melt slightly and blend with the creamy elements while providing a unique flavor contrast.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is not only a quick meal but also makes for a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare the rice up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply heat it in a skillet with a splash of vegetable broth or cream to regain its creamy consistency, stirring in the fresh spinach right before serving.

If you're looking to save leftovers, this dish can be refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. To freeze, allow it to cool fully before sealing it in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat, adding extra cream or broth as needed for a creamy texture.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice

1 cup rice (uncooked)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 4 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Rice

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Add the uncooked rice, stirring to coat it in the oil and mix with the vegetables.

Cook the Rice

Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Stir in Spinach and Cream

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the dish is heated through.

Serve

Serve warm, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice pairs beautifully with various protein options. For a fulfilling meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp. The rich, creamy flavor complements the savory notes of the meat, creating a balanced plate. Additionally, adding a side salad can introduce freshness and lighten the meal, making it more enjoyable.

If you're hosting guests, consider serving this dish family-style in a large bowl, garnished with extra Parmesan and perhaps a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, for a vibrant presentation. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also invites guests to help themselves, fostering a warm, communal dining experience.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your rice is sticking to the bottom of the pan while cooking, reduce the heat slightly and ensure it's covered tightly to trap steam. This helps the rice cook more evenly. If you’re using a different type of rice than suggested, check the package instructions for appropriate water ratios and cooking times to avoid undercooked or mushy rice.

Should your dish turn out too thick after adding the cream, simply stir in a bit more vegetable broth to achieve your desired creaminess. Conversely, if it's too thin, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes on low heat, stirring gently until the sauce thickens to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach. Just thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.

→ What type of rice works best for this recipe?

Long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine is ideal, but you can use any rice you prefer.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and ensure the broth is vegetable-based.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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