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 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 medium tomato, diced; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice because it's a nourishing dish that blends the freshness of spinach with the richness of cream and tomatoes. The first time I tried this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple ingredients could create such flavor. It’s not just a side dish, but a comforting meal on its own. The creamy texture and vibrant colors make it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Every time I prepare it, I find it’s a hit with family and friends alike!

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:43:20.021Z

When I first experimented with this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice dish, I was looking for a way to elevate my rice recipes. Combining creamy elements with fresh vegetables not only transformed the texture but also enhanced the flavor profile significantly. The secret is in sautéing the spinach just enough to maintain its vibrant color while ensuring it wilts perfectly into the rice.

Over time, I've learned to adjust the creaminess to my preference by adding more or less of the heavy cream. The result is a lush, decadent rice dish that pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed alone. It quickly became a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delicious blend of creamy and savory flavors
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Packed with nutrients from spinach and tomatoes

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Rice

Cooking rice can often be tricky, but using the right method yields fluffy, well-cooked grains. In this recipe, sautéing the rice in olive oil before adding broth not only enhances the flavor but also helps to prevent the grains from becoming sticky. Be sure to keep the heat on medium to achieve a light toast without browning the rice too much, which could lead to a burnt flavor in the final dish.

Monitoring the cooking time is crucial. After bringing the broth to a boil, reducing the heat to low is essential for the rice to steam effectively. Covering the saucepan traps steam, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid evenly. Check for doneness at 15 minutes, but remember some rice varieties may require an extra minute or two. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this interrupts the steaming process.

Flavor Contributions of Ingredients

The combination of garlic and onion is a foundational flavor base in many dishes, and here it's used to create an aromatic foundation. Sautéing these ingredients until they become translucent before adding tomatoes allows their natural sweetness to develop, creating a richer flavor profile. The tomatoes bring acidity to balance the creaminess, while the spinach adds a fresh and vibrant contrast to the dish's other components.

Choosing fresh spinach instead of frozen can make a noticeable difference in texture. Fresh spinach creates a tender texture that wilts beautifully when combined with cream. If you do opt for frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture that could dilute the creamy consistency of the dish.

Make-Ahead and Serving Suggestions

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is a fantastic dish to prepare in advance. Consider cooking the rice and sautéing the vegetables separately, then combining them just before serving. This allows you to enjoy the rich flavors while ensuring the spinach retains its vibrant green color. If you make it ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; simply reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen it up.

For an added layer of flavor, consider incorporating proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, transforming the dish into a complete meal. You can also swap out the heavy cream for a lighter alternative like coconut milk for a dairy-free version, or use Greek yogurt for added tang without the extra richness. Garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also enhance the dish, providing a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium tomato, diced
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Make sure to rinse your rice before cooking for best results!

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the rice is slightly toasted. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to low and cover. Cook for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Sauté the Vegetables

In another pan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent. Add the diced tomato and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Once the rice is cooked, fold in the sautéed onion, garlic, and tomato mixture. Stir in the chopped spinach and reduce the heat to low.

Add Cream

Next, pour in the heavy cream, stirring until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the dish is heated through.

Serve

Serve warm, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your meal with a side of crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating your favorite herbs, such as basil or oregano. This dish can easily be customized with leftover vegetables you have at home.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store any leftovers, let the Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It maintains its best quality in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you know that you won't consume the dish within that timeframe, consider freezing it. Place portions in freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn, and it can last up to three months.

When reheating, do so gently to maintain the creamy texture. Add a little vegetable broth or water to the pan to help revive the dish's moisture. Heat it over low to medium-low, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming and to prevent the cream from curdling. You may need to add additional seasonings as flavors can mellow out during storage.

Tips for Customization

Feel free to customize the vegetables in this recipe; zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can add their unique flavors and textures. When using different vegetables, keep their cooking times in mind; harder vegetables may need to be sautéed longer to ensure they are tender, while softer ones (like bell peppers) can be added alongside the tomatoes. This flexibility allows you to make the dish your own based on seasonal produce or personal preference.

If you're looking for a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when sautéing the onions and garlic. Alternatively, fresh herbs like oregano or thyme can add aromatic layers. Experimenting with spices can make it feel new each time you prepare it; just remember to start with small amounts and adjust gradually to find your perfect balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you'll need to increase the cooking time and the broth according to the brown rice package instructions.

→ Can this dish be made vegan?

Absolutely! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan cheese.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

→ What proteins can I add to this dish?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas would pair well with this creamy rice dish.