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 uncooked rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice whenever I want a comforting yet vibrant meal. The combination of creamy sauce, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes makes it incredibly satisfying. I typically pair this dish with grilled chicken or serve it as a standalone vegetarian delight. The best part is how quickly it comes together; in just under 30 minutes, I can enjoy a delicious, flavorful plate. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak more greens into my diet without sacrificing taste!

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:07:29.518Z

When I first made Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was pleasantly surprised by how the flavors melded together. The sweetness of the tomatoes complements the creaminess, while the spinach adds a lovely texture and a pop of color. I used fresh ingredients to enhance the taste, but you could easily swap in frozen vegetables if you're short on time.

One tip I found super helpful is to sauté the spinach just until wilted. This way, it retains its nutrient profile without becoming overly soggy, allowing the rice to absorb all the delicious flavors. Every spoonful is incredibly satisfying!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that coats every grain of rice
Healthy greens blended with fresh tomatoes for a burst of flavor
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Perfecting the Rice

The choice of rice can significantly affect the texture of your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. Long-grain varieties like basmati or jasmine provide a fluffy, separate texture, while short-grain rice results in a more creamy, risotto-like dish. For the best outcome, make sure to rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear; this removes excess starch and helps prevent it from becoming gummy during cooking.

Cooking the rice in vegetable broth not only infuses it with flavor but also enhances the overall richness of the dish. For a more aromatic touch, consider adding a bay leaf or a sprig of thyme to the broth while cooking. Just be sure to remove them before combining the rice with the other ingredients.

Vegetable Variations

While this recipe focuses on spinach and cherry tomatoes, experimenting with different vegetables can yield delightful variations. For instance, roasted bell peppers or zucchini can add extra sweetness and texture. If you prefer something heartier, sautéed mushrooms work beautifully with the creamy sauce, providing an earthy flavor that complements the dish without overpowering it.

If you want a little extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables. This subtle heat pairs wonderfully with the creaminess and can elevate the flavors without overwhelming the dish. Make sure to adjust the seasoning to taste, as the added vegetables will influence the overall balance.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be made ahead and stored for up to three days in the refrigerator. To store, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore the sauce's creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and promote even heating.

For serving, this dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, but it can also stand alone as a filling vegetarian meal. Consider garnishing with fresh basil or additional grated Parmesan cheese to enhance presentation and flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving can also brighten up the dish and complement the creaminess.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice

1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Mix well and enjoy!

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is tender.

Sauté Spinach and Tomatoes

While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes, sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Combine Everything

Once the rice is cooked, add it to the skillet with spinach and tomatoes. Stir in heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until well combined and heated through.

Serve

Serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

This dish is best served immediately.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking for a subtle kick. You can also substitute coconut milk for heavy cream for a lighter, dairy-free version.

Balancing Flavors

The garlic powder used in this recipe adds a depth of flavor without the need for fresh garlic, making it quick and convenient. However, if you enjoy the sharpness that fresh garlic brings, feel free to substitute 1-2 cloves of minced garlic, adding them to the skillet right before the spinach to sauté them until fragrant. Just be mindful not to let them burn, as this can introduce bitterness.

Salt is crucial for enhancing all flavors in this dish. Remember to taste as you go; the amount needed can vary depending on the saltiness of the vegetable broth. If you find your dish lacking depth after adding the ingredients, a small splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can introduce a savory note without overpowering the creamy texture.

Making It Vegan

To transform this dish into a vegan delight, simply replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream. If you choose coconut cream, it will add a hint of tropical flavor, enhancing the dish’s richness. Make sure to use a dairy-free Parmesan for serving, as this will help maintain the dish's intended flavor balance.

Consider incorporating nutritional yeast to provide a cheesy flavor in place of Parmesan. It adds a nutty depth and nutritional benefits, fitting perfectly with the creamy consistency. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference, but start with a tablespoon and increase from there as you combine it with the final dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free rice and vegetable broth.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the rice and sauté the vegetables, but it's best to combine everything right before serving to keep the texture creamy.

→ What can I add for extra protein?

Try adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu when mixing in the rice for a protein boost!