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; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 cup tomatoes, diced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice—it's a delightful dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. The creamy texture, paired with vibrant tomatoes and wholesome spinach, transforms a simple rice base into a gourmet meal. What I enjoy most is how quickly it comes together, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. With just a handful of ingredients, I can create something that feels indulgent yet is packed with veggies. Trust me, this one is a keeper for your recipe collection!

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:25:09.938Z

When I first tried Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was amazed at how easily it turned into a family favorite. I sautéed garlic and onions to build a flavorful base, then added fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes, which created a wonderful aroma that filled my kitchen. This method ensures that the spinach retains its vibrant color while the tomatoes contribute both sweetness and acidity.

One tip I've picked up is to use a good amount of cream to achieve that luxurious texture. It enhances the richness of the dish while balancing the acidity from the tomatoes. This recipe has definitely become my go-to for impressing guests and satisfying my cravings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy flavor with a burst of freshness from spinach and tomatoes
Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile dish that pairs well with grilled proteins or can be enjoyed on its own

      

Understanding Ingredients

The primary ingredients of this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice are white rice, fresh spinach, and ripe tomatoes. The white rice serves as a neutral canvas, absorbing the creamy sauce while providing a satisfying base. If you prefer a healthier option, brown rice can be used but may require a longer cooking time—approximately 40 to 45 minutes—so make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly, adding a bit more broth as needed.

Spinach contributes not only vibrant color but also a wealth of vitamins and minerals. It wilts quickly, making it a perfect addition to this dish. If you're looking for alternatives, kale or Swiss chard could work; just ensure they are chopped finely and sautéed slightly longer to achieve tenderness. For the tomatoes, using cherry tomatoes can add a burst of sweetness, while canned diced tomatoes can be a time-saver during off-seasons.

Cooking Tips for Best Results

When sautéing the onion and garlic, keep an eye on the heat; you want them translucent but not browned. If they start to brown, lower the heat to avoid a bitter taste. Once you add the tomatoes and spinach, allowing them to cook just until the spinach wilts will ensure you retain its vibrant color and nutrients. This typically takes only 2 to 3 minutes, so have the heavy cream ready before you begin to prevent overcooking.

After combining the rice and cream, ensure you mix gently to prevent breaking the rice grains. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a bit more vegetable broth or cream, mixing it in slowly to achieve your desired creaminess. Serving it immediately is key as the dish can thicken as it sits due to the rice absorbing moisture.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice

1 cup white rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 cup tomatoes, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the prep easier.

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Rice

In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Add the white rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes and chopped spinach into the skillet. Cook until the spinach wilts down, about 2-3 minutes.

Mix in Cream and Rice

Add the heavy cream to the skillet and stir well. Then, gently fold in the cooked rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing everything until combined.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve the creamy spinach tomato rice warm, garnished with extra chopped tomatoes or parsley if you like.

Enjoy your creamy creation as a main dish or as a hearty side!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. It will enhance the creaminess and add a delicious umami kick.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for meal prep. You can cook the rice and the vegetable mixture separately, combining them right before serving. Store the components in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the mixture if it’s too thick.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely, then pack it in freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When reheating from frozen, it's best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before warming it up to avoid uneven heating.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy rice dish can be savored on its own, but it pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a well-rounded meal. The creamy flavor complements the smokiness of grilled proteins. For a heartier dish, consider adding some cooked beans or lentils for extra protein and texture.

To elevate the presentation, garnish the rice with fresh herbs like basil or dill, or sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors and cut through the creaminess. Explore different spice blends like Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to tweak the flavor profile to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and adjust the amount of broth according to the brown rice package instructions.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, you can incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas to make it heartier.

→ 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, adding a splash of broth if needed.