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 of rice (any variety); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 large tomato, diced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice when I want a comforting dish that is both delicious and nutritious. The blend of creamy textures with vibrant spinach and tomatoes creates a delightful combination that pleases the palate. This dish is especially great for weeknight dinners when I need something quick to prepare, but still packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, I can whip up this satisfying meal that my family can't resist.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:16:31.219Z

When I first made Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create a dish bursting with flavor. I used fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes, and the result was a creamy rice dish that felt like a warm hug. I quickly learned that adding a bit of garlic elevates the dish even further, making it aromatic and enticing.

This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during busy weeknights. To save time, I sometimes prepare the spinach and tomato mixture ahead of time, so all I need to do is cook the rice. It's a game changer for quick meal prep!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that satisfies every craving.
Fresh spinach and tomatoes add color and nutrition.
Quick and easy to make for busy weeknights.

      

Understanding Ingredients

The choice of rice in this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice recipe plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture. While any variety works, I find that long-grain rice offers a beautiful fluffiness. If you're in a hurry, instant rice can be a fast substitute, although it will slightly alter the creaminess of the final dish. It's best to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from clumping together.

Fresh spinach is not only vibrant but also a key ingredient for nutrition in this dish. When selecting spinach, look for deep green leaves that are crisp, as they bring a fresh flavor and essential vitamins. If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach can be used as a convenient alternative—just ensure it is thoroughly drained and squeezed to remove any excess moisture before adding it to the sauté.

Perfecting the Cooking Method

Sautéing the aromatics—onion and garlic—is pivotal for developing flavor in this recipe. Cook them over medium heat until the onion turns translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Avoid browning them, as burnt bits can impart a bitter taste to the dish. If you find your garlic starting to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to low and stir constantly for better control.

When combining the cooked rice with the vegetable and cream mixture, ensure that the heat is low to prevent the cream from curdling. Stir gently to fluff the rice and incorporate the vegetables evenly. If your mixture appears too dry, a splash of vegetable broth can be added in gradually to reach your desired creamy consistency. This dish is best served immediately, but if you need to store it, keep in mind that the rice may absorb more liquid as it sits.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice.

Ingredients

1 cup of rice (any variety)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 large tomato, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your 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 until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Add Spinach and Tomato

Stir in the chopped spinach and diced tomato. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Combine with Rice

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir it into the vegetable mixture. Pour in the heavy cream, mixing everything until combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider topping with grated Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be enjoyed on its own, but it pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or a pan-seared fish for a heartier meal. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving enhances the flavors and adds a zesty touch. For a vegan option, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, which complements the dish’s richness while keeping it plant-based.

Consider serving this dish with a side salad or garlic bread to create a more rounded meal. A simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar makes a wonderful contrast to the creaminess of the rice. During the cooler months, a bowl of this dish can be matched with a warm, crusty loaf for comfort on chilly evenings.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the dish's creamy texture, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a small splash of broth or water to loosen it up and prevent sticking. Stir frequently until warmed through, approximately 5-7 minutes. For microwave reheating, use a lower setting and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can also freeze portions for later use. Allow the rice to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring to label with the date. It will keep well for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the reheating instructions, adding more cream as needed to restore its original luscious texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative for the heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can use coconut cream or any plant-based cream for a vegan option.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables for an extra kick.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Yes, you can reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the rice.