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 long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice for a comforting meal. The combination of fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes creates a deliciously creamy dish that satisfies my cravings every time. It’s one of those recipes that’s not only quick to make but also bursting with flavor. The secret really lies in the rich, creamy sauce that clings to each grain of rice, making it an indulgence you can enjoy on any day. Plus, it’s a great way to get some greens into my diet without sacrificing taste!

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:07:24.513Z

When I first tried making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was amazed at how easily the dish came together. I sautéed garlic and onion until fragrant, and then added fresh spinach and diced tomatoes, allowing them to mingle in the pan. This method unlocks the vibrant flavors of the vegetables, making every bite delightful. The addition of cream and cheese at the end truly transforms the dish into something rich and dreamy.

One tip I learned is to use a good quality vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the rice. It deepens the flavor and elevates the entire dish. Serve it warm as a side or a main, and watch it disappear quickly from the table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that envelops each grain of rice
Fresh flavors of spinach and tomatoes combine perfectly
Quick and easy for busy weeknights or weekends

      

Perfecting the Rice

The type of rice you choose plays a significant role in this dish. Long-grain rice, such as basmati or jasmine, adds fluffiness and allows those creamy flavors to cling beautifully without becoming mushy. It’s essential to rinse the rice under cold water before cooking, as this removes excess starch that can make the final dish gummy. Once cooked, the rice should be tender yet slightly firm, ensuring each grain remains distinct and captures the sauce perfectly.

To elevate your rice cooking technique, consider toasting the rinsed rice in the pot with a bit of olive oil before adding the broth. This additional step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice while also helping to prevent sticking. Keep an eye on it, toasting for just 2-3 minutes until it starts turning golden but before any browning occurs.

Sautéing Skills

The sautéing step is crucial for building flavor. Make sure to heat your olive oil adequately before adding the onions. A medium heat is ideal, and you can tell the oil is ready when it shimmers slightly. If the garlic and onion are added too soon, they risk burning and imparting a bitter taste to the dish. Stir periodically and look for a translucent appearance, which indicates they are ready for the next ingredients.

If you want to add more depth to the dish, consider incorporating other vegetables during the sautéing phase, such as bell peppers or mushrooms. These can complement the spinach and tomato beautifully. Just be mindful to not overcrowd the pan; this can lead to steaming instead of sautéing, which robs the vegetables of that essential caramelized flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Make sure to have everything prepped before starting the cooking process for a smooth experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, combine rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Spinach and Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes, cooking until spinach is wilted and tomatoes are soft, approximately 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Finish

Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Fold in the cooked rice, season with salt and pepper to taste, and heat through for a couple of minutes.

Enjoy your creamy and delicious rice dish!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the creamy spinach tomato rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to reheat, simply place it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or additional cream to loosen the mixture and restore its creamy texture. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent any sticking.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. This way, you can enjoy the flavors of this comforting dish anytime. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing to avoid excess moisture, which can lead to ice crystals and impact the texture.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be a versatile base for many dishes. To make it a complete meal, consider topping it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or a sunny-side-up egg for added protein. You could also toss in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a satisfying crunch and a boost of healthy fats.

For a touch of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can elevate the flavors, cutting through the creaminess and adding a fresh element. Pair this dish with a light salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal, balancing out its rich texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook. Use about 40-45 minutes.

→ Is there a vegan option for this dish?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and cheese with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would make a great addition for extra protein.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.