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 (long grain or basmati); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice because it’s a dish that combines comfort and nutrition in one bowl. The silky creaminess pairs perfectly with the fresh flavors of spinach and tomatoes, making it a delightful meal any time of the year. It’s also incredibly simple to prepare, which means I can whip it up even on the busiest days. Each bite is a reminder of how satisfying it can be to enjoy a healthy dish that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:01:43.778Z

When I first tried Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was amazed by how the richness of cream blended so seamlessly with the vibrant ingredients. I experimented with different herbs and spices to enhance the dish, and I found that a pinch of nutmeg elevates the creamy texture beautifully.

Cooking the rice slowly allows it to absorb all the flavors from the spinach and tomatoes. Adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end takes it to another level, melting into the dish and creating an irresistible finish.

        Why You'll Love This Dish
        Creamy texture that beautifully hugs each grain of rice
Fresh spinach and tomatoes for a burst of nutritious flavor
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Choosing Your Rice

The type of rice you choose can greatly impact the texture of your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. For a light, fluffy dish, opt for basmati rice, which cooks up with a nice separation. Long grain rice is also a great option, offering a slightly chewier bite. Just ensure you rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps to remove excess starch, preventing the final dish from becoming gummy.

Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the rice you choose. Basmati typically cooks in about 15 minutes, while some long-grain varieties may require an additional minute or two. Always check for doneness; the rice should be soft but still hold its shape. If you find that the rice is not quite tender after the designated time, add a splash more broth and continue cooking with the lid on for a few more minutes.

Incorporating Spinach and Tomatoes

Fresh spinach and tomatoes don’t just add nutrition; they also enhance the flavor profile of the dish. When sautéing the spinach, look for it to wilt visibly and become vibrant green. This usually takes about 5 minutes over medium heat. Avoid overcooking, as you want the spinach to retain some texture and nutritional value. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-washed baby spinach, which can quickly be tossed in without the need to chop.

Cherry tomatoes bring a delightful burst of sweetness that balances the creaminess. When added to the skillet, they should be cooked just enough to soften and release their juices—about 5 minutes. If you're looking for a sweeter flavor, consider using roasted tomatoes instead, as their natural sugars will caramelize and add depth to your dish.

Serving and Storing

This creamy dish is best served immediately while the flavors are fresh and vibrant. However, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the mixture, as it can thicken while stored. Stir occasionally until warmed through, ensuring the rice doesn't stick to the pan.

To add variety, consider serving this dish with a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a vegetarian twist, toss in some chickpeas or lentils for added protein. You can even top the dish with crushed red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for an extra kick.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice

1 cup rice (long grain or basmati)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure you have everything ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make this delicious dish:

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable broth until boiling. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the chopped spinach and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes until the spinach wilts. Stir in the cooked rice and heavy cream, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice as a comforting main dish or a delightful side!

Pro Tips

For an added layer of flavor, you can sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat or squeeze some fresh lemon juice right before serving.

Ingredient Tips

When choosing heavy cream, opt for one that is labeled 'heavy' or 'whipping' cream, as this will ensure the richest texture. You can also substitute half-and-half for a lighter version, but your dish may lose some of its luxurious creaminess. For dairy-free alternatives, coconut cream works surprisingly well, imparting a slightly different flavor that pairs beautifully with the spinach and tomatoes.

The use of olive oil adds a fruity note that complements the sautéed onions and garlic. If you prefer a nuttier flavor, feel free to swap it out for butter. However, be mindful of cooking temperature; butter has a lower smoke point than olive oil, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Making It Your Own

Feel free to customize the recipe according to your tastes or what you have on hand. For instance, looking to add a little spice? A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dish significantly. You could also incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini; just adjust cooking time to ensure they soften appropriately.

Herbs can also enhance the freshness of this recipe. Fresh basil or parsley added right before serving can brighten the dish. And if you're a fan of cheese, experiment with different varieties; feta or goat cheese would provide a tangy contrast that works well with the creaminess!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just ensure it's thawed and drained before adding it to the dish.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a mixture of milk and flour as a lighter alternative.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time! Just reheat on the stove and add a splash of broth to loosen it up.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegans?

You can make it vegan by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream and omitting Parmesan cheese.