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 diced tomatoes (fresh or canned); 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons 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, especially on busy weeknights when I need a quick yet satisfying meal. The combination of fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes creates a delightful flavor, while the creamy consistency makes it comforting and filling. It's one of those dishes that feels indulgent without being heavy. I've found that using arborio rice gives it that perfect risotto-like creaminess, and it pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or as a satisfying vegetarian option on its own.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:34:14.667Z

When I first experimented with Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I wanted a dish that could highlight both the freshness of vegetables and the comforting texture of rice. Using garlic-sauteed spinach and ripe tomatoes, I discovered that the simple addition of cream really brought the flavors together beautifully. It’s not just another rice dish; it’s a vibrant, veggie-forward meal that can easily transition from a weeknight dinner to a potluck favorite.

One tip I’ve picked up over the years is to let the rice rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the creamy sauce to thicken and envelop the rice perfectly, ensuring that every bite is rich and satisfying. Trust me, this subtle step can make all the difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts the soul
Bursting with fresh flavor from spinach and tomatoes
Quick and easy preparation for a busy weeknight meal

      

Perfecting the Creaminess

Achieving the perfect creamy texture in this dish hinges on the choice of Arborio rice. Unlike regular long-grain rice, Arborio's high starch content creates a natural creaminess when cooked. As you sauté the rice with the aromatics, make sure to coat each grain in oil; this step helps to release the starch during cooking, adding to that luxurious texture. If you find yourself short on Arborio, you can use Carnaroli rice as an excellent substitute, though the cooking time may vary slightly.

Additional creaminess can be achieved by gradually stirring in the heavy cream at the end of cooking. I recommend allowing the rice to rest for a few minutes after adding the cream, as this lets it absorb flavors and thicken. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a plant-based cream for a vegan option, though this will slightly alter the richness.

Ingredient Roles and Swaps

Spinach and tomatoes are not just flavor enhancers; they also contribute essential nutrients to this dish. Spinach provides iron and vitamins A and C, while the tomatoes add a punch of antioxidants and a slight acidity that balances the creaminess. Feel free to experiment with other greens like kale or Swiss chard if you want a different flavor profile or if spinach isn’t available. Just remember to chop them finely and add them at the same stage to ensure they cook evenly.

If you're looking to enhance the flavor further, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a hint of heat. Additionally, leftover roasted vegetables can be mixed in along with the spinach and tomatoes for added texture and flavor. For a protein boost, you might stir in some cooked beans or lentils during the final stages of cooking.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This creamy spinach tomato rice holds up well for meal prep. After cooling, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you find the rice thickened too much upon refrigeration, simply add a splash of broth or cream while reheating to restore its creamy consistency. For freezing, portion the rice in freezer-safe containers; it's best enjoyed within three months. When reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming on the stove over low heat.

Serving this dish is wonderfully versatile. Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or a side salad for a balanced meal. You can also enjoy it on its own, topped with a fried egg or some sautéed mushrooms for added flavor. For a touch of freshness, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top before serving can elevate the dish further, giving it a delightful aroma and vibrant color.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and simple ingredients to make your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Ingredients

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

Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or proteins!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until transparent. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Cook the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the pan, stirring to coat it with the oil and aromatics. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and allow the rice to cook for about 15 minutes.

Add Spinach and Tomatoes

Once the rice is tender, stir in the chopped spinach and diced tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes are heated through.

Make It Creamy

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes to thicken.

Serve

Spoon the creamy spinach tomato rice into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy while warm!

This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for a few days.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice turns out too firm, it may not have cooked long enough or may need more liquid. In this case, add a little more vegetable broth, cover the pan, and allow it to simmer for an additional few minutes. Conversely, if the rice is too mushy, this could be a result of overcooking or too much broth. Next time, try reducing the simmer time or the amount of liquid added to the pan.

Another issue could arise if you find your dish lacking in flavor. The key to a well-seasoned risotto-style dish lies in the broth used. For enhanced depth, use homemade vegetable broth or a store-bought variety low in sodium to control the overall seasoning. Tasting along the way and adjusting with salt and pepper can also help in achieving the perfect flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling this recipe up is simple; just maintain the same ratio of ingredients. For every additional cup of Arborio rice, increase the vegetable broth and other ingredients proportionally. Just be sure to use a larger pot to prevent overcrowding and allow even cooking. This dish is great for gatherings or meal-prepping for the week ahead.

For a smaller portion, you can halve the ingredients without sacrificing flavor or texture. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may reduce slightly with less rice, typically in the range of 10-12 minutes on simmer. This makes it ideal for a quick lunch or light dinner when you’re short on time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio rice?

Yes, but cooking time will vary. Brown rice generally takes longer to cook.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

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

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! Just reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of broth to bring back the creaminess.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the rice. However, it's best enjoyed fresh as it may change texture when thawed.