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

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice because it combines rich flavors with a velvety texture that always impresses. The tanginess of the tomatoes pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the spinach, creating a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. I often prepare this for family dinners or cozy nights in, and it never fails to satisfy our cravings for something delicious and wholesome. Plus, it comes together in just a few minutes, making it a quick go-to meal in my kitchen.

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:58:13.348Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted to create a dish that was both comforting and nutritious. The magic happens when you let the tomatoes simmer, releasing their natural sweetness that perfectly complements the spinach. I also love to add a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavors, which elevates the dish in unexpected ways.

After several tries, I found that cooking the rice together with the sauce creates a wonderful creaminess that envelops every grain. It's my go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests, and everyone's always asking for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Dish
        Decadent creaminess that comforts your soul
Nutritious spinach packed with vitamins and flavors
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of rice is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. I recommend using long-grain white rice, such as basmati or jasmine, for a fluffy result. Rinsing the rice before cooking helps remove excess starch, preventing the final dish from becoming too sticky. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with brown rice, but be aware that the cooking time will increase to approximately 40-45 minutes.

Fresh spinach not only adds vibrant color but also a wealth of nutrients, enhancing the dish's healthfulness. If fresh spinach isn't available, you can use frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. As for the tomatoes, feel free to experiment with seasonal varieties. Cherry tomatoes can give a burst of sweetness when roasted first, or use canned diced tomatoes for convenience—both options retain their flavorful essence.

Cooking Technique Tips

Sautéing the onion until it becomes translucent is a pivotal step; this brings out its natural sweetness, creating a flavorful base. Over medium heat, take your time with this process to ensure it doesn’t brown. If you notice the onions starting to darken, lower the heat slightly. Once you add the garlic, keep a close eye on it; it only takes about a minute to become fragrant, and burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste.

When incorporating the spinach and cream, stir gently but thoroughly to ensure the spinach wilts evenly without overcooking. The dish is ready once everything is heated through and you've achieved a creamy consistency. If you find your mixture too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Conversely, if it’s too thin, just let it cook a bit longer uncovered, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients

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

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready to go, making it easier to follow the steps seamlessly.

Instructions

Start by preparing all your ingredients, as this will make the cooking process efficient.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Tomatoes and Rice

Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir in the rinsed rice, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.

Incorporate Spinach and Cream

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the mixture is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the creamy spinach tomato rice to serving dishes, and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy it warm!

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice! It's perfect on its own or paired with a side salad.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or parsley.

Storage and Reheating

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be conveniently stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore its creamy texture. Microwave in intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time for meal prep, consider cooking the rice and sauce separately. Store the creamy spinach mixture in the fridge, and then combine it with freshly cooked rice right before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice as a side dish or a main course. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded meal. You can also top it with a poached egg for breakfast or brunch, adding a rich, runny yolk over the creamy rice.

For a bit of crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top just before serving. Fresh basil or parsley can elevate the dish further, adding a pop of color and fresh flavor. Additionally, incorporating a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the overall brightness, balancing the richness of the cream.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and add more broth, as brown rice generally takes longer to cook.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a vegan cream substitute, and skip the cheese.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, veggies like bell peppers and zucchini work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.