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; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup tomatoes, diced; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice for a comforting meal that feels both indulgent and nutritious. The creamy texture combined with vibrant spinach and juicy tomatoes makes each bite a delight. With just a few ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights. Whether served as a side or a main dish, it's incredibly versatile. I often customize it by adding my favorite proteins or spices, which only enhances its richness and flavor.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:40:12.011Z

When I first tried making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I wanted something that would be both rich in flavor and easy to prepare. The key is to sauté the tomatoes and garlic before adding the rice, which enhances the overall taste significantly. This method also helps the rice absorb all the wonderful juices, creating a dish that's bursting with flavor.

Another tip I discovered is to use fresh spinach instead of frozen. It wilts beautifully and adds a wonderful texture. Plus, adding a splash of cream towards the end elevates the dish to a new level of creaminess. Trust me, it will make your taste buds dance!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that’s utterly satisfying
Fresh spinach and tomatoes for a burst of flavor
Quick and simple, perfect for any weeknight dinner

      

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

Achieving a luscious and creamy texture is key to making this dish stand out. The heavy cream not only adds richness but also helps to bind the ingredients, creating a velvety coating around the rice. For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk, which will still provide creaminess while adding a subtle sweetness that complements the tomatoes.

Be cautious not to overcook the heavy cream. After adding it to the pan, gently stir until everything is just combined and warm, but avoid boiling, as this can cause the cream to curdle. If you find that the sauce is too thick, a splash of additional vegetable broth can loosen the mixture while maintaining the creamy consistency.

Choosing the Best Ingredients

Fresh ingredients are essential for a flavorful Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. Opt for in-season tomatoes to make the most of their natural sweetness and acidity. Ideally, use plum or Roma tomatoes since they have fewer seeds and thicker flesh, which prevents excess moisture and keeps the dish from becoming too watery.

Spinach is packed with nutrients, and using fresh, chopped spinach not only enhances flavor but also infuses a vibrant green hue into the dish. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach; just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the recipe.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to start making your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup tomatoes, diced
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you’re on your way to making a delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes

Add the diced tomatoes to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their juices.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the rice and toast it for a minute. Then, pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Add Spinach and Cream

Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your creamy, delicious Spinach Tomato Rice!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, consider incorporating fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the dish up until the point of adding the spinach and cream, then let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit more broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency.

If you’d like to make a larger batch, this recipe easily doubles. Just be sure to use a larger pan to accommodate the extra volume. Monitor the cooking time, as larger quantities might require an additional few minutes of simmering to ensure the rice is fully cooked.

Flavor Variations

To customize the flavor profile of your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, consider adding different herbs and spices. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful level of heat. Alternatively, fresh herbs such as basil or oregano can enhance the Mediterranean flavors, making the dish feel fresher and brighter.

If you're looking to add protein, cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be great additions. Simply toss them in after mixing in the spinach and cream to warm through. This not only boosts the dish's nutritional value but also makes it more filling, perfect for a hearty family dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but brown rice will require more cooking time and additional liquid.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's delicious on its own but pairs well with grilled chicken or a fresh salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.