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 basmati rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love creating simple, comforting meals that burst with flavor, and this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is no exception. It perfectly combines the earthiness of spinach with the tangy sweetness of tomatoes. As someone who enjoys easy one-pot dishes, this recipe has become a staple in my home. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a creamy, satisfying meal in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner with loved ones.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:28:12.105Z

Every time I make this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I am reminded of how vibrant and nourishing a simple dish can be. The creaminess derives from a blend of caster and heavy cream, balanced perfectly with sautéed garlic and onions. The spinach adds not only nutrition but a gorgeous green hue, while the tomatoes lend a juicy pop. I always find that using fresh tomatoes makes a significant difference in flavor, so I recommend getting them when they are in season.

In my experience, the key to achieving the right creaminess is to let the rice absorb the flavors fully. The gradual addition of vegetable broth as it simmers allows the rice to soak up the goodness, creating a delightful texture. I often pair this dish with grilled chicken or serve it as a vegetarian main course, and it never fails to impress!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that satisfies any comfort food craving
Bright flavors from fresh spinach and tomatoes
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Creaminess Factor

The heavy cream in this recipe is essential for achieving that rich, velvety texture that coats the rice beautifully. When you add the cream, allow the mixture to simmer gently, which gives it time to meld with the other ingredients. Aim for a low heat during this step to prevent the cream from curdling, which typically happens at higher temperatures. This not only enhances the dish's creaminess but also helps in binding the flavors together.

If you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. This will still give you a creamy texture, but with added tang and slightly fewer calories. Just remember to add the yogurt off the heat to prevent curdling.

Flavor Pairing with Spinach and Tomatoes

Fresh spinach adds a mild earthiness that perfectly complements the tart sweetness of the cherry tomatoes. When sautéed together, they create a delightful medley of flavors that elevates the rice. Make sure to cook the spinach just until it wilts, roughly 2 minutes, as overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. Keeping it vibrant and slightly crispy will enhance the overall appearance of your dish.

For added depth, consider incorporating other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. Sauté them alongside the onions to develop their flavors before adding the rice. This not only makes your dish more colorful but also adds nutritional diversity.

Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup basmati rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Cook the Rice

Add the basmati rice to the pot, stirring well to coat it in the oil. Pour in the vegetable broth, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.

Incorporate Spinach and Tomatoes

Once the rice is done, add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes, stirring gently to combine. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, allowing the mixture to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of creaminess and vibrant flavors!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider including herbs like basil or oregano. Also, using leftover rice can save time
just adjust the cooking time accordingly to heat it through.

Storing and Reheating

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is excellent for meal prep! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you find the rice thickened upon cooling, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water when reheating to bring it back to that creamy consistency. Reheat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or use a microwave in short bursts to avoid overcooking the rice further.

For longer storage, you can freeze this dish for up to three months. Portions should be frozen in airtight containers, leaving some space for expansion. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge, then follow the reheating tips mentioned for a creamy comeback.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be a wonderful base for protein additions such as grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp. Serve it alongside these proteins to transform it into a more elaborate meal without much extra effort. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving can also elevate the dish with a burst of freshness.

If you’re welcoming guests or family for dinner, consider presenting Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice in individual bowls topped with extra Parmesan and a swirl of olive oil. This not only makes it visually appealing but allows each person to enjoy the flavors their way. Pair with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but be aware that brown rice will take longer to cook; adjust the broth quantity and cooking time accordingly.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut milk for a dairy-free option or half-and-half for a lighter alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions that pair well with the flavors.