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; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I always love finding new ways to make rice exciting, and Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice has quickly become a favorite in our household. The rich, creamy sauce combined with the freshness of spinach and the tang of tomatoes creates a dish that's not only delicious but also comforting. It’s perfect as a side dish or a main course and comes together in just about 30 minutes. The best part is that it uses simple ingredients, making it an easy weeknight meal that you’ll want to make again and again.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:25:19.022Z

One evening, I had some leftover rice and a bunch of fresh spinach that needed to be used up, so I decided to get creative. After experimenting a bit, I discovered that combining spinach with tomatoes and a creamy sauce transforms ordinary rice into a delightful dish. The vibrant colors and comforting texture make it a showstopper on any dinner table.

I’ve also found that adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens the flavors beautifully. It’s amazing how a few simple modifications can turn a basic recipe into something exceptional. Give it a try, and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as we do!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the tender grains of rice.
A delightful balance of flavors with the freshness of spinach and tangy tomatoes.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.

      

Perfecting Your Rice

The choice of rice plays a crucial role in the overall texture of Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. Long-grain varieties, such as basmati or jasmine, provide a lighter, fluffier result, while medium-grain rice yields creamier textures. Whichever type you choose, be sure to rinse it under cool water before cooking to remove excess starch, which can cause it to become gummy.

When cooking the rice, maintaining a gentle simmer is key. A rapid boil can lead to uneven cooking and a burnt bottom. After the initial boil, reduce your heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and refrain from lifting the lid during cooking. This retains steam and ensures even cooking for approximately 15 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the vegetable broth fully.

Vegetable Variations

While fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes are the stars of this dish, you can easily modify the vegetables to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Substituting kale for spinach offers a heartier texture that stands up well to cooking. Similarly, diced bell peppers can add a sweet crunch, or zucchini can integrate a soft, mild flavor into the mix. Be mindful of cooking times—harder vegetables should be added earlier on.

If you want to up the nutrition, consider adding some chopped carrots or peas towards the end of the sautéing process. These not only add color but also a delightful sweetness that complements the creamy sauce. Just ensure they are cooked until tender but still vibrant to keep your dish fresh and visually appealing.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious dish:

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you begin cooking for a seamless experience.

Instructions

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

Cook the Rice

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

Sauté the Vegetables

While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach and halved tomatoes.

Cook for 3-5 minutes, until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.

Combine Everything

Once the rice is cooked, add it to the skillet with spinach and tomatoes. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve warm, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your homemade creamy spinach tomato rice with your favorite protein or as a delightful standalone dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating other vegetables or spices, such as mushrooms or Italian herbs, to customize the dish to your taste. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Storing and Reheating

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the dish's creamy texture, reheating it gently is essential. Microwave on medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to keep it moist and prevent drying out. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

If you prefer freezing leftovers, consider doing so before adding the heavy cream, as this can change its texture. Freeze the rice and vegetable mixture in a sealed bag or container for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a saucepan, adding cream during the final minutes of cooking to restore richness.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice makes an excellent side dish for grilled chicken or fish, as the creamy sauce complements the proteins beautifully. Alternatively, serve it as a base for a protein like sautéed shrimp or tofu for a satisfying vegetarian meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving can brighten up the flavors even more.

For those looking to elevate this dish, try adding a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. This adds a bright acidity that balances the creaminess perfectly. If you're hosting a gathering, consider presenting this dish alongside a light salad for a refreshing contrast.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, just keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to reclaim its creaminess.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would all make great additions to this creamy rice dish.