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 rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup tomatoes, diced; 1/2 cup cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, especially on busy weekdays when I crave something wholesome and comforting. The combination of creamy sauce, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes comes together beautifully, providing a delicious meal that's quick to prepare. Each bite is packed with flavor and a hint of garlic, making it a family favorite. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens, ensuring the kids enjoy their veggies without a fuss.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:01:13.240Z

While experimenting with different rice dishes, I stumbled upon this vibrant and delicious combination of spinach and tomatoes. What I found was that the creaminess of the sauce balances perfectly with the freshness of the ingredients, creating a truly delightful experience. One tip I’ve discovered is to use fresh tomatoes for a sweeter taste, which complements the spinach beautifully.

Another aspect I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Adding extra spices or a protein can elevate this dish even further, making it a fulfilling meal any day of the week.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts the soul
Fresh spinach and tomatoes provide a burst of flavor
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

      

Key Techniques for Creaminess

Achieving the perfect creamy texture in this dish relies heavily on the right balance of cream and the cooking technique used. When you add the cream to the sautéed spinach and tomatoes, ensure you let it simmer just enough for the mixture to thicken slightly—about 5 minutes is ideal. This allows the flavors to meld without the risk of breaking the cream, which can happen if it's cooked too long or over high heat.

I recommend using heavy cream for the richest flavor, but if you’re looking to lighten it up, half-and-half or even a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream work well too. Just be mindful that non-dairy creams may alter the flavor slightly but can provide a delicious twist.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you're fresh out of spinach or tomatoes, don't fret! This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to substitute the spinach with kale or Swiss chard; both will wilt beautifully and provide a slightly different texture and flavor. For tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes can work just as well, especially in colder months when fresh ones are less flavorful.

Bored of the same flavors? Consider adding some cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein, or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You could also introduce other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, sautéed alongside the garlic and spinach, to further enhance the nutritional value and color of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

For the Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice

1 cup rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Make sure to have everything ready before you begin to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Sauté Garlic and Spinach

While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Combine Ingredients

Once the spinach is wilted, add the diced tomatoes and cream to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine with Rice

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then gently fold it into the skillet with the creamy spinach and tomato mixture. Ensure everything is well-coated and heated through.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious and easy Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice!

Enjoy your meal paired with a side salad for a complete dinner!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some herbs like basil or oregano when cooking the tomatoes. You can also substitute the cream with a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice stores well, making it a great dish to prepare ahead of time. If you want to make it a day in advance, follow all the steps but hold off on combining the rice until right before serving. Store the creamy mixture separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to eat, just reheat the mixture and fold in freshly cooked rice for the best texture.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored for up to three days in the refrigerator. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to the mixture to restore its creaminess and prevent it from becoming too thick. Heat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs fantastically with crusty bread or a side salad, which balances the meal with some crunch and freshness. A Caesar salad or a light green salad with a vinaigrette can elevate your dining experience while complementing the creamy rice.

For a heartier dinner, consider serving this alongside grilled chicken or fish. The mild creaminess of the rice works beautifully with the smoky flavors of grilled proteins, making for a well-rounded meal that is both satisfying and delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for additional texture and flavor.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the rice and sauce in advance, then combine them before serving.

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! It's a delicious vegetarian meal that you can enjoy any time.