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 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love how this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice brings comfort to our dinner table every time. The combination of creamy texture and fresh ingredients creates a satisfying dish that's packed with flavor. With a burst of colors and nutrients, it’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. We often enjoy it as a cozy main dish or a flavorful side, and I find it’s perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. Let me guide you through this delightful recipe!

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:31:17.890Z

During one of our busy weekdays, I craved something nutritious yet easy to prepare, so I whipped up this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. The creamy sauce made from fresh tomatoes and spinach not only adds great flavor but also ensures that the rice remains moist and satisfying. I learned that using freshly chopped herbs can elevate any dish and bring a zing of flavor that makes this simple recipe feel gourmet.

This dish never fails to impress family and friends. The secret lies in the timing; adding the spinach just a few minutes before the rice finishes cooking ensures it retains its vibrant color and nutritional value. Each bite is a delightful mix of creamy and fresh, making it a favorite in our home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that comforts the soul
Nutritious blend of spinach and tomatoes
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for any day

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes in this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice elevates both the flavor and nutritional profile of the dish. Fresh spinach adds a tender, leafy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. I recommend choosing vibrant green spinach with no browning or wilting to ensure the best taste. The cherry tomatoes should feel firm and slightly springy to the touch, ensuring they burst with sweetness as they cook.

In addition to taste, fresh ingredients contribute to the dish's overall visual appeal. The bright green spinach and red tomatoes not only provide a beautiful aesthetic but also enhance the nutrients in the meal. Cherry tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, while spinach offers a good source of iron and calcium, making this dish both colorful and nourishing.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

Sautéing the onions and garlic until they are translucent is crucial in developing the flavor base for this dish. This step should take about 3-5 minutes over medium heat. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, which can lead to a bitter taste. If you notice them browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly; you want them to soften and become fragrant, not charred.

When you add the rinsed rice to the broth, ensure it is at a rolling boil before reducing the heat. This helps the rice absorb the flavors right from the start. After covering the pan, resist the urge to lift the lid during the 15-minute simmer. Doing so traps steam and ensures the rice cooks evenly. I recommend using a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning and sticking.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Steps

Prepare the Ingredients

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch for a fluffier texture.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large saucepan over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.

Cook the Rice

Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring it into the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

Add Spinach and Tomatoes

After 15 minutes, stir in the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes until spinach wilts.

Finish with Cream and Cheese

Remove from heat and add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is great for meal prep! You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it has completely cooled before sealing the container to avoid condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

When reheating, it's best to use a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore the creaminess of the dish and prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, ensuring it doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this dish according to your preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, swapping the spinach for kale or Swiss chard works wonderfully, just slightly adjust the cooking time as they may require a bit longer to wilt down. You can also replace cherry tomatoes with diced bell peppers for a different flavor profile.

For a vegan version, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan cheese, or use a plant-based cheese alternative. This will retain the creaminess while accommodating dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan alternative.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms make excellent additions to this dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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