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; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

When I first tried my hand at making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a comforting dish. I love the combination of fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes, which not only adds vibrant color but also layers of flavor. The creaminess really ties everything together, making this dish perfect for a cozy dinner or a side dish at gatherings. It's so satisfying to scoop a spoonful of this creamy rice onto my plate, and I can’t wait to share my version with you!

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:31:13.590Z

Every time I prepare Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I recall the first time I made it for my family. We were enjoying a laid-back Sunday afternoon, and the aroma wafting through the kitchen drew everyone in. I layered fresh ingredients instead of pre-packaged sauces, ensuring the flavors were bright and natural. In every bite, the creaminess balances with the acidity of the tomatoes for an unforgettable taste.

What I've found works best is using fresh spinach, as it has a more vibrant flavor compared to frozen. To enhance the creaminess, I opt for a mix of cream and cheese that melts beautifully through the warm rice. Each time I prepare it, I marvel at how such a simple dish can impress and satisfy!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy flavor with a touch of tomato freshness
A quick one-pan meal that's both satisfying and nutritious
Perfect for both family dinners and entertaining guests

      

Understanding Creaminess

The creamy texture of this dish primarily comes from the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, which work together to create a rich and luscious mouthfeel. When you add the cream, ensure you lower the heat to avoid boiling, which can lead to curdling. Stir the mixture thoroughly until it appears glossy and well combined. A key tip is to use freshly grated Parmesan for optimal flavor and melting quality, as pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the final creaminess.

Another aspect to consider is the timing of adding the cream. If the spinach and tomatoes are cooked down sufficiently before introducing the cream, you'll enhance the dish's overall depth of flavor. The residual heat from the vegetables will help incorporate the cream smoothly, leaving you with a perfectly textured dish. I recommend simmering until the spinach is deeply wilted without losing its vibrant green color for the best results.

Ingredient Insights

Fresh spinach not only contributes essential nutrients but also brings a subtle earthiness to the dish. If you're looking for alternatives, Swiss chard or kale can be substituted, though they may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their sturdiness. Additionally, for those who prefer a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic would provide a delightful contrast to the creaminess.

The cherry tomatoes bring a natural sweetness and acidity, which balances well with the rich components. If they're out of season, you might consider using canned diced tomatoes, though the texture and flavor will be different. In such a case, drain them well to avoid excess liquid making the dish soupier than intended.

Serving and Storing

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a standalone dish, or pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. For a vegetarian twist, consider topping it with roasted chickpeas for a satisfying crunch. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving can also elevate the presentation and enhance the flavors with a fresh herb note.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The dish reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop; just add a splash of broth or water to revive the creaminess. For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to a month. When ready to reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm over low heat, adding a little liquid if needed to restore the creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before starting:

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
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to create your delicious dish:

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the Rice

Stir in the rice and let it toast in the oil for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Pour in the Broth

Add vegetable broth to the skillet and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.

Stir in Spinach and Tomatoes

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Allow to wilt for about 2-3 minutes.

Add Cream and Cheese

Pour in heavy cream and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture. Stir well until creamy and combined.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.

Now you can enjoy this warm, comforting rice dish!

Pro Tips

For a deeper flavor, try adding herbs like basil or oregano while cooking. Additionally, substituting half the cream with milk can reduce calories without sacrificing creaminess.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common challenge with creamy dishes is achieving the right consistency. If your rice seems dry after cooking, it may not have absorbed enough broth. Consider adding a bit more vegetable broth while it's still cooking next time. Additionally, if the mixture becomes too thick after adding cream, simply stir in a little more broth to reach your desired consistency.

Another potential pitfall can be overcooking the garlic. If it turns too dark or begins to burn, it can impart a bitter taste to the dish. To prevent this, always keep an eye on your garlic and adjust the heat as necessary; medium heat is often ideal for a golden, fragrant result.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling up this recipe for larger gatherings is simple. For every additional cup of rice, increase the broth, vegetables, cream, and cheese proportionately. Keep in mind that increased volume may require a larger pot to allow for even cooking and avoid overflow. You may also need to extend cooking times slightly, and always check the rice for doneness before serving.

Conversely, if you wish to make a smaller batch, simply halve the ingredients. This dish retains its flavor and texture well, so you won't sacrifice quality by cooking less. If halving the rice, follow the same steps to ensure even cooking and creamy results.

Flavor Variations

To mix things up, consider adding proteins or other vegetables to the dish. Diced bell peppers or zucchini can add additional color and nutrients. For protein, shredded rotisserie chicken or sautéed shrimp can turn this side dish into a hearty main. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to complement the added ingredients.

For a touch of zest, a squeeze of lemon juice added just before serving can brighten the dish significantly. Alternatively, for a more indulgent version, a handful of cooked bacon or pancetta can add a savory crunch that envelopes each bite in flavor. Experimenting with these variations can keep the recipe fresh and exciting each time you prepare it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the dish.

→ What can I serve this with?

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Certainly! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a plant-based cheese alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.