Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice

Name: Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Vitality Kitchen

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. It’s one of those comforting dishes that come together quickly, elevating simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The rich creaminess pairs beautifully with the freshness of spinach and the sweetness of tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. Whether it's a busy weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand!

Created by

Eliza Thornton

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:46:15.971Z

When I first set out to create this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was looking for a way to incorporate more greens into my meals. The combination of sautéed spinach and ripe tomatoes truly transforms the dish, making it feel indulgent yet healthy. I experimented with various seasonings, and I found a pinch of nutmeg really enhanced the creaminess and depth of flavor.

I believe the key to a perfect creamy texture is allowing the rice to absorb the flavors gradually. By simmering the rice in vegetable broth along with the spinach and tomatoes, every grain becomes infused with deliciousness. Trust me, this method guarantees a satisfying and nutritious meal that you’ll crave again and again!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy and flavorful with the perfect blend of spinach and tomatoes
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for weeknight dinners
Nutritious, satisfying, and packed with vitamins

Perfecting the Texture

To achieve the ideal creamy texture in your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, be mindful of the timing during cooking. When you add the heavy cream, make sure to stir gently to prevent the rice from breaking apart. Cooking it on low heat for about five minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully without creating a mushy consistency. If you find the dish too thick, just add a splash more vegetable broth to loosen it up; this also enhances the flavor profile.

The rice should be cooked until it’s fluffy yet firm to the bite. Paying attention to the sautéing process for your onions and garlic is crucial. Cook the onions until they are just translucent to ensure they don’t overpower the dish. That sweet-savory base sets the stage for the vibrant spinach and tomatoes to shine without competing with the richness of the cream.

Customizing Your Dish

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the spinach for other greens such as kale or Swiss chard if you prefer. Just be sure to chop the greens roughly, as they will cook down significantly. If you like more acidity, adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing contrast to the creaminess.

For an added protein boost, consider incorporating cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas into the mix. If you go for chickpeas, I recommend using canned ones for convenience; just rinse and drain them before adding. You can customize the quantity based on your preference but aim for about a cup to maintain balance with the other ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice.

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

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

Cook the Rice

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

Sauté the Veggies

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook until spinach is wilted and tomatoes are tender, about 3–4 minutes.

Finish the Dish

Stir in the cooked rice and heavy cream into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through and creamy.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a bit of vegetable broth to help restore the creaminess that may have thickened during storage. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.

This dish can also be frozen for up to a month. However, keep in mind that the texture may change upon thawing. To freeze, let the rice cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, consider garnishing your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice with freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread to make it a full meal. I love a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to counterbalance the richness of the dish.

Also, consider serving it alongside a protein source for a complete meal. Grilled chicken or baked salmon complements the flavors nicely and offers a balanced plate. You can serve this dish warm, at room temperature, or even chilled as a pasta salad-like side at your next gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and amount of broth, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream substitute for a lighter option.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to add peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.