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 rice (white or brown); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Shredded cheese (optional, for serving)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love a good one-pan meal, especially when it’s as colorful and comforting as this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. The combination of creamy texture and vibrant veggies makes every bite a delight. Cooking the rice with fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when I don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen.

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:28:13.743Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the creaminess melded perfectly with the freshness of the spinach and tomatoes. It felt like a hug in a bowl! I often use fresh ingredients from my garden, and I’ve found that the quality of the produce truly enhances the dish.

To streamline the cooking process, I prepare the rice and veggies simultaneously in one pan. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop beautifully together. A sprinkle of cheese on top right before serving takes it to the next level!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy sauce that coats every grain of rice
Packed with nutritious veggies for a healthy meal
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes is key to achieving the vibrant color and rich flavor in this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. Fresh spinach wilts beautifully, adding both texture and an earthy taste that complements the creamy sauce. If you find yourself short on fresh spinach, frozen spinach can be a viable substitute. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture to prevent the dish from becoming watery.

The tomatoes can significantly impact the dish's overall flavor profile. While fresh tomatoes are delicious, canned tomatoes are a great alternative, especially in the off-season. Choose whole or diced canned tomatoes with no added salt to control the seasoning better. Remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as canned tomatoes release moisture more quickly than fresh.

Perfecting the Creamy Sauce

The heavy cream in this recipe is crucial for creating that rich, velvety sauce that clings to each grain of rice. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute half-and-half or even a non-dairy option like coconut milk. However, note that coconut milk will impart a distinct flavor that changes the character of the dish. To achieve a creamy consistency, be sure to pour in the cream slowly while stirring, preventing the sauce from curdling.

For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables. This brief deglazing step will lift any browned bits from the pan, enhancing the overall taste of your dish. Allow the wine to cook off for a few minutes before adding the broth, ensuring all the alcohol evaporates and the rich flavors are locked in.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare this flavorful dish:

Ingredients

1 cup rice (white or brown)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
1 cup heavy cream
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Shredded cheese (optional, for serving)

Make sure to have everything ready to enjoy this delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Cook the Rice

Stir in the rice and cook for another 2 minutes. Then add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender, about 15 minutes.

Add Spinach and Tomatoes

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and diced tomatoes. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach has wilted.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Slowly pour in the heavy cream, mixing thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through until warmed and creamy.

Serve

Spoon the creamy spinach tomato rice into bowls and sprinkle with shredded cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!

Enjoy your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, a flavorful one-pan meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be a fantastic make-ahead meal. Prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cream, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed.

If you're meal prepping for the week, consider cooking a larger batch and freezing portions. To freeze effectively, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can keep in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick weeknight dinner.

Serving Suggestions

For a comforting, complete meal, serve this dish with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a handful of toasted pine nuts can elevate the flavors even further, providing a lovely contrast in texture and taste.

To make the dish more protein-rich, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only rounds out the meal but also adds an extra component of sustenance, turning it into a satisfying entree suitable for families or gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

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

→ Is there a vegetarian substitute for heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little added broth.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the rice and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate them separately. Combine and heat before serving.