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 short-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups spinach, washed and chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup cream or coconut milk; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice because it brings together fresh ingredients with a rich and satisfying texture. There’s something magical about the vibrant colors and flavors that come from blending sautéed spinach, juicy tomatoes, and creamy rice. Whenever I serve this dish, it not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or quick weeknight meals. Plus, it takes just under 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a hassle-free delight!

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-15T22:58:13.289Z

When I first experimented with Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was surprised by how simple yet delicious it turned out. I combined fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes, bringing out their natural sweetness while adding a creamy base for a comforting finish. I recommend using short-grain rice for a creamier texture that absorbs all the flavors beautifully.

This dish is also versatile; you can easily add in cooked chicken or chickpeas for extra protein, making it a complete meal. I like to serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, which elevates the taste even further!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that soothes the soul
Bursting with fresh flavors from spinach and tomatoes
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Choosing the Right Rice

Using short-grain rice is essential for achieving that creamy texture in Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. This type of rice releases more starch compared to long-grain varieties, which helps create a rich and comforting consistency. You can also experiment with arborio rice if you want an even creamier result, as it's traditionally used in risottos for its high starch content. Remember to rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent it from becoming overly gummy.

If you prefer a whole grain option, brown short-grain rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time. Simply adjust the liquid and cooking duration accordingly—use 2.5 cups of vegetable broth and extend the simmering time to around 40-45 minutes. Just be sure to keep an eye on the texture; it should be tender yet still slightly al dente for the best eating experience.

Maximizing Flavor with Spinach and Tomatoes

Fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes are the stars of this dish, and their quality directly affects the flavor profile. Look for vibrant greens that are free from wilting or discoloration when choosing spinach. For tomatoes, peak summer varieties will offer the best sweetness. If you're making this dish during the off-season, you can substitute fresh with high-quality canned tomatoes; just make sure to drain them well before adding to avoid excess moisture.

To elevate the dish further, consider sautéing the cherry tomatoes for a couple of minutes before adding the spinach. This will help them release their natural juices and enhance sweetness, creating a delightful balance when combined with the creamy texture of the rice. Don't forget to season liberally as you go—this is crucial for building layered flavors within this comforting meal.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make this delightful dish:

Ingredients

1 cup short-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups spinach, washed and chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup cream or coconut milk
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Prepare the vegetables

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the rice

Add the short-grain rice to the pan, stirring it through the onion and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Add spinach and tomatoes

When the rice is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.

Finish with cream

Finally, stir in the cream or coconut milk, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

Serve

Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your creamy and delicious rice!

Dig in and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Pro Tips

Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Feel free to add spices like red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to a month. Keep in mind that the texture of the rice may change slightly after thawing, but it should still be delicious after reheating.

When reheating, add a splash of broth or water before warming it up in the microwave or on the stove. This helps restore the creaminess and prevents it from drying out. Keep the heat low to gently warm through, ensuring the flavors meld back together wonderfully.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can serve as a standalone meal, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or grilled protein like chicken or fish. If you want to make it more of a complete meal, consider adding cooked chickpeas or lentils for added protein and texture. Just stir them in alongside the spinach and tomatoes for a heartier dish.

For an extra layer of flavor, try topping each serving with freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley, which will brighten up the dish. I also love serving it with a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a tangy kick that complements the creaminess nicely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works well; just thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the dish.

→ What can I substitute for cream?

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

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are great additions for added protein.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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