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

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice—it's a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of creamy sauce with fresh spinach and tomatoes. When I'm craving something delicious yet quick, this recipe never disappoints. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or as a delightful side for special occasions. Plus, with ingredients I often have on hand, it comes together effortlessly, and the result is a creamy, savory delight that I know my family will enjoy.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:28:13.404Z

When I first experimented with this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I wanted to find a way to incorporate more vegetables into my meals without sacrificing flavor. The combination of sautéed spinach, juicy tomatoes, and rich cream creates a mouthwatering dish that feels indulgent but isn’t overly complicated to make. I was surprised at how well the flavors blended together, making it a family favorite!

One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to use fresh spinach, as it wilts beautifully and retains its vibrant color. I also like to add a dash of nutmeg to the sauce; it complements the creaminess and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something so delicious!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the freshness of spinach and tomatoes
Quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights
Customizable with your favorite herbs or spices for added flavor

      

The Role of Cream in This Dish

The heavy cream in this recipe not only adds richness but also helps to create a luscious consistency that clings beautifully to the rice and vegetables. When heated, the cream becomes glossy and enhances the flavors of the spinach and tomatoes, providing a satisfying mouthfeel. For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream, ensuring you maintain a creamy texture without sacrificing flavor.

To achieve the best results, be mindful not to overheat the cream after adding it to the skillet. Cooking it gently helps to maintain its luxurious quality, so keep the heat low and stir occasionally. If you notice any separation, a quick whisk can often bring it back together.

Perfecting the Rice

The white rice serves as a neutral base, absorbing the flavors of the sautéed vegetables and cream. Rinsing the rice under cold water before cooking removes excess starch, which can make the dish gummy. Aim for a perfectly fluffy texture, which can be achieved by ensuring that the vegetable broth is at a rolling boil before adding the rice and then covering the pot immediately to trap the steam.

If you're looking to incorporate whole grains, substituting with brown rice is an excellent choice. However, you'll need to adjust the cooking time, as brown rice typically requires about 40-45 minutes to cook. Just make sure to watch the liquid levels closely, and consider adding an extra half cup of broth to accommodate the longer cooking time.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice makes a fantastic standalone dish, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a more substantial meal. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can elevate the flavors, giving it a fresh kick that complements the creaminess perfectly.

For added nutrition, consider layering in other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers. Sauté them alongside the onion and garlic to infuse the dish with even more vibrant colors and flavors. Moreover, swapping out the cherry tomatoes for sun-dried tomatoes will impart a deeper umami flavor, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Ingredients

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

Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the spinach and tomatoes, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Combine and Finish

Once the rice is done, add it to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serve warm, and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired for added creaminess!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding herbs like basil or oregano during the cooking process. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative or plain yogurt.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can cook the rice and sauté the vegetables in advance, storing them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply combine them in a skillet, add the cream, and heat through for a quick lunch or dinner option.

For longer storage, consider freezing the rice and vegetable mixture in a sturdy freezer-safe container. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to encourage even heating and restore the creamy texture, as freezing can cause the cream to thicken.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cream sauce seems too thick, don’t worry! You can loosen it by adding a bit more vegetable broth or a splash of milk, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, cooking it longer on low heat can help it reduce and thicken naturally.

Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Sometimes, depending on how flavorful your broth is, you might need a bit more salt or pepper. Start with small increments to ensure you don’t overpower the dish.

Variations for Dietary Preferences

To cater to vegan dietary preferences, you can swap heavy cream with cashew cream or a rich coconut milk alternative. Additionally, substitute white rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option, which also adds a delightful nuttiness to the dish.

If you're avoiding dairy but still want that cheesy flavor, consider adding nutritional yeast to the mixture just before serving. This will provide a similar taste profile without any dairy, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or following a dairy-free lifestyle.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but note that brown rice will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the broth and cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this dish vegan-friendly?

You can make it vegan by substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk and omitting the cheese.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store 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 vegetable broth.

→ Can I add protein to this meal?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would all be delicious additions to this recipe.