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 (white or brown); 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: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice for quick weeknight dinners. The combination of fresh spinach and sweet tomatoes creates a lively yet comforting dish that feels both indulgent and nutritious. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I'm short on time but still want something delicious and satisfying. The creaminess of the sauce complements the rice beautifully, making it an ideal base for any protein or a perfect vegetarian main dish. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:49:12.427Z

Over the years, I've experimented with various rice dishes, but Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice holds a special place in my heart. One evening, I had an abundance of ripe tomatoes and fresh spinach, so I decided to combine them into a creamy rice dish. The result was a delightful surprise that has now become a family favorite. Using a splash of cream adds a rich texture that elevates the dish beyond typical comfort food.

When preparing this dish, I learned that the key to a great creamy sauce is not just the cream but also letting the tomatoes cook down adequately before adding the rice. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I like to finish it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a dash of pepper for that extra punch!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy consistency that comforts the soul
Fresh veggies bring a nutritious punch to your plate
Quick and simple to prepare for any weeknight meal

      

Choosing Your Rice

The choice of rice can significantly affect the texture and taste of your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. While I often use white rice, brown rice offers a nuttier flavor and additional nutrients. If you opt for brown rice, increase the vegetable broth to about 2 1/2 cups and extend cooking time to 30-35 minutes for optimum results. Always keep an eye on the rice during cooking; it should be tender yet slightly al dente for the best mouthfeel.

When using instant or parboiled rice, be aware that the cooking time will drastically shorten. These types typically take only about 10-12 minutes to cook, so adjust your liquid accordingly. Always check the package instructions, and remember that the final result should be fluffy rice that melds beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Cream Sauce Mastery

The heavy cream not only adds luxurious richness but also helps to create that signature creamy texture. If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider substituting half-and-half or even a plant-based cream alternative, such as coconut milk or cashew cream, which can still yield a creamy consistency while keeping it dairy-free. Just ensure that if you're using coconut milk, you balance the sweetness with a little extra salt.

When incorporating the cream, you want to achieve a glossy finish; this happens when the cream fully blends with the rice and vegetable mix. Make sure to cook it on low heat after adding the cream to prevent it from curdling. The goal is to let all flavors meld while keeping an eye on the consistency, making sure it doesn't become overly thick—add a splash of vegetable broth if needed to loosen it up.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
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

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Cook the Tomatoes

Add the cherry tomatoes to the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften and release their juices.

Add Rice and Broth

Stir in the uncooked rice and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender.

Incorporate the Spinach and Cream

Once the rice is cooked, gently fold in the chopped spinach and heavy cream, stirring until the spinach wilts and everything is well combined. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy and flavorful dish!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider mixing in some grilled chicken or chickpeas. Additionally, feel free to substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is versatile and can serve as a side dish or a main course. To enhance the dish, consider adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted chickpeas for added protein. I often enjoy it topped with a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or a handful of toasted pine nuts for extra texture and flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also provide a refreshing contrast to the creaminess.

If you have leftovers, this dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or crusty bread to soak up any extra creamy sauce. Reheating is easy—simply warm it gently in a saucepan with a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy texture without drying it out.

Storing and Reheating

This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cream may thicken upon cooling, so when reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to bring back that creamy consistency. Gently warm it on the stove over low heat to avoid breaking down the cream further.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the base with rice, spinach, and tomatoes and then add the cream just before serving. This helps maintain the dish’s freshness. Freezing is also an option; however, the cream may change texture once frozen and reheated. If you freeze it, I recommend doing so without the cream, then adding it fresh when you're ready to serve.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the excess water from frozen spinach before adding it.

→ What can I serve with this rice dish?

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even a simple side salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free rice and ensure your vegetable broth is also gluten-free.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.