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 uncooked rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love how this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. The blend of fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes creates a flavor explosion that complements the rice perfectly. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a comforting and satisfying dish that feels luxurious without being overly complicated. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for any meal. Trust me; you’ll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:10:26.375Z

When I first made this dish, I knew I needed something that brought together comforting ingredients without a lot of fuss. I found that combining the creaminess of spinach with the bright acidity of tomatoes creates a delicious balance that everyone loves. Over time, I've adjusted the seasonings to make this dish uniquely mine, enhancing the flavors with just a pinch of garlic and a hint of parmesan.

One trick I've learned is to use fresh spinach whenever possible. It wilts beautifully and provides incredible color and nutrition. If you're short on time, frozen spinach works in a pinch, but nothing compares to the freshness of the real deal. I promise this will soon be a favorite in your household!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture with a delightful burst of flavors
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
A nutritious and wholesome meal that satisfies

      

Essential Techniques for Creamy Perfection

Achieving that creamy consistency in Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice relies heavily on the right balance of liquid to rice. When cooking the rice, using vegetable broth instead of water adds depth of flavor, but don’t overdo it—ensure the broth is measured accurately to avoid mushy rice. As the rice simmers, keep the heat at a low setting to coax out its starches, giving your final dish a luxurious texture.

When it comes to integrating the heavy cream, it's essential to add it slowly and stir continuously. This will help prevent the cream from separating or curdling as it combines with the starches in the rice. You can also try using a dairy alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version, though this may shift the flavor profile slightly.

Flavor Enhancements and Substitutions

To elevate the flavor of your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, consider adding herbs like basil or oregano during the cooking process. Fresh basil can bring a fragrant, aromatic quality that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes. Alternatively, for a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can easily be added alongside the garlic, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy texture.

If you’re looking to modify or lighten up the dish, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute half with Greek yogurt or a plant-based yogurt. This swap provides creaminess while also adding a tang that complements the tomatoes. Additionally, using brown rice instead of white offers a fiber boost, but keep in mind that you'll need to increase the cooking time for brown rice, allowing about 45 minutes for it to become tender.

Ingredients

Please find the ingredients you'll need to enjoy this creamy delight.

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all these ingredients, and let’s get started on this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal!

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.

Combine Everything

Stir in the cooked rice, chopped spinach, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until everything is well combined and the spinach is wilted.

Enjoy your creamy, flavorful rice!

Pro Tips

For added richness, consider stirring in some cooked chicken or mushrooms. You can also vary the types of cheese used for different flavor profiles.

Storing and Reheating

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is a great make-ahead meal. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. If you're planning to reheat it later, consider adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to the dish while warming it up to restore its creamy texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the leftover rice. Portion it into small containers or freezer bags, and it should last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding moisture as needed to avoid dry clumps.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish as a stand-alone meal, or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier dinner. The freshness of the spinach and tomatoes nicely offsets rich proteins, creating a balanced plate. You might also consider serving it alongside a crisp salad for a delightful contrast in textures.

For a more festive occasion, you can top the Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic reduction can elevate the presentation and flavor profile, making it an impressive dish for guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.

→ What can I serve this rice with?

This dish is great on its own but pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or a side salad.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and the Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to loosen the rice.