Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice

Name: Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, a comforting dish that warms the soul. The combination of fresh spinach, ripe tomatoes, and creamy rice creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that I can't resist. Every time I prepare this meal, the aroma fills my kitchen, making it a delightful experience for both cooking and eating. Plus, it's quick to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when I want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Created by

Ainsley Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:13:10.654Z

When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was intrigued by the balance of flavors it promised. After trying it out, I realized how well spinach and tomatoes complement each other when combined with creamy rice. The key is to sauté the spinach just until wilted to retain its vibrant color and nutrients, elevating the dish from merely delicious to outstanding.

One of my favorite tips is to use a good quality vegetable broth instead of plain water. It adds an extra layer of flavor that really brings everything together. Every scoop of this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is not just a meal but a celebration of wholesome ingredients.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously creamy with a burst of freshness from the spinach and tomatoes
Quick to prepare, making it a great weeknight dish
Versatile enough to pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal

      

Perfecting the Rice

Using Arborio rice is key to achieving the creamy texture of this dish. Arborio is a short-grain rice known for its high starch content, which helps create that luxurious creaminess as it cooks. Make sure to toast the rice in olive oil for a couple of minutes before adding the broth; this enhances the nutty flavor and prevents the rice from becoming mushy. Watch carefully for a slight translucent appearance before adding any liquids.

The cooking method requires precision. Bringing the vegetable broth to a gentle boil and then immediately lowering the heat prevents the rice from becoming overcooked or gummy. Keep simmering until the water is absorbed and the rice is al dente. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s tender but has a slight bite—aim for a creamy risotto consistency without excess liquid.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

The addition of fresh spinach and tomatoes not only provides a vibrant color but also a wealth of nutrients. Fresh spinach wilts nicely, adding bulk and an earthy flavor, while the cherry tomatoes provide a sweet burst of acidity that enhances the dish. For a twist, consider substituting the tomatoes with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, which can offer a different texture and taste.

When incorporating the spinach and tomatoes, be mindful not to overcook them. A few minutes of cooking allows the tomatoes to soften and release their juices, while the spinach wilts without losing its bright green color. This gives the final dish a beautiful presentation and rich flavor—ideal for impressing guests with minimal effort.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can stand alone as a delightful meal or serve as a side to grilled chicken or fish. The creaminess complements savory proteins nicely, and you can elevate the experience by garnishing with grated Parmesan. I love adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for an extra layer of flavor that brightens the dish.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a saucepan on low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore the rice's creaminess. This dish also freezes well, so consider batch cooking for easy meals throughout the week.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and simple ingredients to create a delightful meal.

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

These ingredients are sure to combine for a rich and comforting dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a creamy and flavorful rice dish that everyone will love.

Prepare the Ingredients

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until onions are translucent. Stir in the Arborio rice, allowing it to toast for a couple of minutes.

Add the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the rice is creamy and al dente.

Incorporate Spinach and Tomatoes

Add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.

Finish with Cream

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow it to warm through for another minute, then remove from heat.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful rice dish!

These steps will guide you to a delicious meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week.

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider swapping heavy cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or a non-dairy yogurt. This change will still give you a creamy texture without the richness of dairy. Additionally, using vegetable broth with added herbs or spices can enhance the flavor profile without overcomplicating the recipe.

For a boost of protein, you could add cooked chicken or chickpeas to the mix. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly to ensure everything heats through while retaining its desired texture.

Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the base—rice, spinach, and tomatoes—up to a day ahead. Keep the heavy cream separate and stir it in just before serving to maintain the creaminess and freshness of the dish. It helps in keeping the rice from drying out and ensures a delightful texture when reheated.

Another option for meal prep includes halving the recipe. You'll still enjoy all the flavors and save time in the kitchen. The dish is just as delicious scaled down, making it perfect for smaller households or singles.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio rice?

Yes, but cooking times will vary. Brown rice typically requires about 40-45 minutes to become tender, and you'll need to adjust the broth accordingly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you confirm your broth is gluten-free, this recipe is suitable for a gluten-free diet.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute, and omit the Parmesan cheese.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.