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 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice because it's a comforting dish that marries simplicity with vibrant flavors. The creamy base brings a luscious texture to the fluffy rice, while the fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes add bursts of color and nutrition. Preparing this dish is a breeze, allowing me to whip it up in just a short time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or even as a side for gatherings. Every bite feels like a warm hug, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:22:10.885Z

When I first created this recipe, I wanted to make something that was not only delicious but also quick to prepare. The combination of sautéed garlic and tomatoes with spinach really enhances the creaminess of the rice. I've found that incorporating the spinach at the end preserves its vibrant color and nutrients while still providing that soothing texture.

One of the best tips I've picked up over the years is to use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, as it adds an incredible depth of flavor that store-bought varieties can't match. This dish quickly became a family favorite and I enjoy serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an extra touch.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that is addictive
Flavorful blend of spinach and tomatoes
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

      

The Creamy Base

The heavy cream in this recipe serves as the foundation of its rich texture. When combined with the grated Parmesan, it creates a delightful creaminess that coats the rice without feeling overly heavy. Make sure to stir in the cream gradually, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the mixture. This will help achieve that luxurious mouthfeel. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a plant-based cream alternative to keep the dish creamy yet dairy-free.

Both the cream and cheese play an essential role in balancing the acidity of the tomatoes. This interplay enhances the overall flavor, making every bite unique. Remember to taste as you go; adjusting the seasoning at this stage is crucial to ensuring the flavors meld beautifully together.

Choosing the Right Rice

The type of rice you choose can significantly impact the dish. Long-grain rice provides a fluffy texture, while short-grain varieties offer a stickier finish that may cling to the creamy sauce. If you prefer brown rice for added nutrition, just remember to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook and requires more liquid.

Rinsing the rice before cooking is a crucial step that many overlook. By rinsing, you remove excess starch that can cause the rice to become gummy. This is particularly important in a dish where you want the rice to absorb the flavorful broth without clumping together.

Perfecting the Flavor Profile

The sautéed garlic not only adds aromatic depth, but it also provides a base for sweetness that balances the dish's acidity. Sauté it until it’s just golden, as overcooking can lead to bitterness. Adding the cherry tomatoes after the garlic allows the tomatoes to blister and release their juices, which enriches the creamy sauce with additional flavor.

Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms. These can be sautéed alongside the garlic to add varying textures and taste. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary; for instance, bell peppers generally take longer than tomatoes to soften, so adjust your cooking sequence accordingly for optimal results.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients listed below before starting your cooking adventure!

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 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have your ingredients ready, you're all set to start cooking!

Instructions

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

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the uncooked rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the broth is absorbed.

Sauté the Vegetables

While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Once the rice is cooked, add it to the skillet with the sautéed garlic and tomatoes. Stir in the chopped spinach, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Transfer the creamy spinach tomato rice to serving dishes and enjoy warm. Optionally, garnish with additional grated Parmesan and fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Now enjoy your delicious Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice!

Pro Tips

For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken or chickpeas to the dish. You can also experiment with different vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can easily be made ahead of time. Just prepare the entire dish, then let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore its creamy texture, as the rice might absorb some moisture during storage.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions in airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat over low heat on the stove, adding small amounts of liquid as needed to prevent drying out.

Serving Suggestions

For an elevated presentation, serve the Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice in bowls topped with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. A drizzle of olive oil can also add a nice sheen and an extra layer of flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or grilled protein, such as chicken or shrimp, complementing the creamy rice perfectly.

If you're hosting guests, consider turning this dish into a casserole. After combining all ingredients, transfer them to a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden. This creates a delightful crust on top while keeping the inside creamy and warm.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a vegan cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

→ 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 with a splash of liquid to prevent drying out.

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

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

→ What can I serve with this rice?

This creamy spinach tomato rice pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty vegetarian meal.