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 long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice because it’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creaminess from the tomatoes and the hint of earthiness from the spinach come together to create a dish that's comforting and satisfying. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a side for a larger meal, this rice recipe is always a hit in our home. Plus, it’s so easy to make! You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time, and it's sure to please everyone at the table.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:52:07.576Z

When I first tried making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was surprised by how quickly everything came together. The key is to sauté the spinach just until it's wilted and then mix it with the tomatoes and cream for the perfect sauce. I enjoyed experimenting with the amount of cream to find just the right consistency that coats the rice without overpowering the other flavors.

One tip I have learned is to let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and gives the rice a chance to absorb the rich, creamy sauce, making every bite even tastier. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure you don’t burn your mouth when you’re too eager to dig in!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy and comforting texture that warms you up
Vibrant colors from fresh spinach and tomatoes
Flexibility to add your favorite proteins or spices

      

The Foundation: Why the Right Rice Matters

Choosing long-grain rice for this recipe is essential. Long-grain rice cooks evenly, providing a fluffy texture rather than a clumpy one. It absorbs the vegetable broth beautifully, infusing each grain with flavor without becoming mushy. If you don’t have long-grain rice on hand, basmati rice can be a fitting substitute, imparting a lovely nutty aroma to the dish.

Another important factor is the cooking method. Sautéing the onion and garlic builds a rich base flavor that deeply infuses the rice as it cooks. Make sure to stir frequently, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn and turn bitter, which can easily happen if overheated.

Creaminess and Flavor: The Role of Ingredients

The heavy cream is a star ingredient in the creamy mixture, lending richness and a velvety texture to the dish. If you're looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or even a plant-based cream could work in a pinch, while still creating a luscious mouthfeel. Just be cautious with plant-based alternatives, as they can sometimes alter the flavor profile or texture.

The combination of cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach not only offers a pop of color but also important nutritional benefits. Cherry tomatoes are naturally sweet and contribute acidity that complements the cream. I recommend choosing tomatoes that are firm and vibrant to ensure they break down nicely and create a lovely sauce when cooked.

Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Creamy Mixture

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the rice and stir for another 2 minutes.

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked.

Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a separate pan, add the cherry tomatoes and spinach. Cook over medium heat until the tomatoes soften and the spinach wilts, about 5 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper, letting it simmer gently.

Combine and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the creamy tomato and spinach mixture. Mix until well combined and heated through. Serve warm.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider topping your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice with grated parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Making Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare the rice and creamy mixture in advance and simply combine them just before serving. Store the components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the creamy mixture in a saucepan and toss it with the rice, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed to restore moisture.

If you find you have leftovers, don’t worry! This dish maintains its flavor, but the texture of the spinach may change slightly. I recommend enjoying it within a couple of days for the best quality. If you want to freeze it, pack the rice and creamy mixture separately and use them within three months.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving this creamy dish with a protein. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or even roasted chickpeas can elevate it into a satisfying main course. The rich flavors of the creamy spinach tomato mixture make for a perfect pairing with simple proteins or beans for a vegetarian option.

Another great way to serve this dish is to top it with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice right before eating. The cheese adds an extra layer of creaminess, while the lemon will brighten the flavors, making it an even more enjoyable experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a dairy-free version available?

Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk alternative.

→ What can I add for protein?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu are great additions for a heartier meal.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the creamy mixture to spice things up!