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 Arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice for a comforting weeknight dinner. The rich creaminess combined with fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes creates a delightful one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The best part? It comes together in just 30 minutes! I’ve discovered that using a mixture of herbs really enhances the flavors, so don't skip on the garlic and basil. This recipe is perfect for any occasion and a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings.

Created by

Lydia Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:37:17.895Z

When I first tried Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was instantly hooked by the vibrant colors and flavors. The blend of the creamy sauce with fresh spinach and tomatoes creates a dish that feels indulgent yet healthy. I've experimented with different types of rice, but Arborio is my favorite because it gives a nice creaminess.

To really elevate the dish, I recommend adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese just before serving. It melts beautifully and adds an extra depth of flavor that enhances the entire meal. Trust me, it’s an absolute game-changer!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy flavor with fresh spinach and tomatoes
Quick and easy one-pot meal for busy nights
Versatile dish that can be paired with proteins or enjoyed alone
Perfect balance of comfort food and healthy ingredients

      

Mastering the Creamy Texture

To achieve that rich and creamy texture in your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, it's essential to use Arborio rice. This short-grain rice is high in starch, which will release during cooking, creating a natural creaminess without the need for excessive cream. Start by toasting the rice in the pan with the aromatics; this step helps to enhance the flavor and prepare it for liquid absorption. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes until the rice is slightly translucent around the edges.

When adding the vegetable broth, make sure it's at a gentle simmer before you pour it in. This prevents the temperature from dropping too much and allows the rice to cook evenly. Keep an eye on the mixture; the goal is for the rice to absorb most of the broth, which will take about 15 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the rice is tender yet still has a slight bite, reminiscent of risotto.

Ingredient Enhancements

The combination of fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes is not just for color; they bring a burst of flavor and nutrition to the dish. As the spinach wilts into the rice, it adds both texture and a mild earthiness that pairs beautifully with the sweeter, juicy tomatoes. For variations, feel free to swap spinach with other greens like kale or Swiss chard. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as tougher greens may take a bit longer to wilt.

If you're looking to elevate the dish further, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. This acidity can brighten the flavors and cut through the creaminess, balancing the dish beautifully. Don't shy away from experimenting with different herbs either; fresh thyme or oregano can bring new dimensions to this dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this delicious dish!

Main Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins!

Instructions

Let’s get started on this easy and flavorful recipe!

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for another 2 minutes to toast the grains. Then pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.

Add the Vegetables

Once the rice has absorbed most of the broth (about 15 minutes), add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes.

Finish with Cream

Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice!

Pro Tips

For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy alternative. You can also add protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be made ahead, making it a perfect option for meal prep. To store, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It refrigerates well for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat in a pan over low-medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore the creamy texture if it thickens too much during storage.

For longer storage, you can freeze the rice. Portion out servings in freezer-safe containers, and it will last for about 2-3 months. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating, but a little additional cream can help revive its richness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This creamy rice dish can be served on its own or paired with protein. For a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein. For a lighter option, try topping the dish with a poached egg, where the runny yolk can enrich the creamy texture even more. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top just before serving adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Feel free to get creative with your toppings or side dishes. A crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette or roasted vegetables would provide a lovely contrast to the creaminess of the rice. You can also experiment by adding different types of cheese or spices to tailor the dish to your taste. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless adaptations, so let your taste buds guide you!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.

→ What type of rice can I use?

Arborio rice is preferred for its creamy texture, but you can also use jasmine or basmati rice if needed.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook it in advance and reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

→ What can I pair this dish with?

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is delicious by itself or paired with grilled or roasted chicken, fish, or a simple side salad.