Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice

Name: Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 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; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice on busy weeknights because it’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. The combination of creamy sauces with fresh vegetables always makes me feel like I'm indulging in something special, while knowing that it's also good for me. The rice absorbs all the delicious flavors, and the vibrant colors of the spinach and tomatoes make the dish visually appealing. It’s a staple in my kitchen that I always come back to, especially when I need comfort food in a hurry.

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:46:15.017Z

When I first came up with the idea for Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I wanted a recipe that would combine all my favorite flavors in one dish. The key was to balance the creaminess with the freshness of the veggies. After several trials, I discovered that adding a splash of lemon juice at the end really brings everything together. It cuts through the richness beautifully and elevates the whole dish.

A specific detail that makes this dish shine is the use of arborio rice. This type of rice is starchier than regular rice, which gives the creaminess without needing to add too much sauce. I highly recommend letting the rice simmer gently, allowing it to soak up every bit of flavor.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful mix of creamy and vibrant flavors
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious ingredients make it a wholesome meal

      

Mastering the Texture

When preparing Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, the choice of arborio rice is crucial. This short-grain rice is high in starch, which helps create that sought-after creamy texture without the need for lots of cream. Cooked properly, arborio rice should be slightly firm in the center, giving it a perfect al dente bite. When you stir in the heavy cream, it enhances the silkiness while the starches from the rice help thicken the mixture beautifully.

The entire dish benefits from the sautéing process; heating the olive oil before adding the garlic releases its natural oils, creating a fragrant base that permeates the rice and vegetables. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. A golden color after about a minute is ideal, ensuring you achieve a rich depth of flavor right from the start.

Choosing Your Ingredients Wisely

Fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes bring not only color but also essential nutrients to this dish. Spinach is high in iron and vitamins A and K, which are vital for overall health. If fresh spinach is unavailable, you can use frozen spinach instead; just make sure to squeeze out excess water before adding it to the rice. Additionally, consider substituting the cherry tomatoes with other varieties, such as grape or even sun-dried tomatoes, if you want a deeper flavor.

For a dairy-free version, coconut cream can replace heavy cream, while nutritional yeast can stand in for Parmesan cheese, creating a similar depth of flavor. These substitutions not only cater to dietary restrictions but also add interesting flavor profiles to keep the dish exciting.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is versatile and pairs well with proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp, turning it into a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside marinated tofu or a fresh side salad. This makes for a satisfying weekday dinner or a delightful weekend meal. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an added burst of freshness.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of vegetable broth to restore the creaminess. You can also freeze portions for a quick meal later, but keep in mind that the texture may alter slightly upon thawing, so it's best enjoyed fresh.

Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Toast the Rice

Add the arborio rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the rice is slightly translucent.

Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.

Stir in Vegetables and Cream

Once cooked, fold in the chopped spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and the spinach is wilted.

Finish with Lemon

Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture, add salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a handful of fresh basil for herbiness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with creamy rice dishes is ending up with a sticky or gummy texture. To avoid this, ensure you are not overcooking the rice. Arborio rice should simmer for approximately 15 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally. If you notice excess liquid in the pan, you can gently increase the heat for the last few minutes of cooking to evaporate it.

Another potential error is under-seasoning the dish. To achieve a well-balanced flavor, taste the mixture just before adding lemon juice, allowing you to adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. The acidity from the lemon will enhance the overall flavor, so balancing the seasonings beforehand is key.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the vegetables based on the seasons. For instance, during the autumn months, you can incorporate roasted butternut squash for a cozy twist. Alternatively, adding a handful of peas or diced bell peppers can introduce another layer of flavor and nutrition without much extra effort.

If you wish to enhance the flavor profile further, consider incorporating spices such as red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or smoked paprika for depth. These additions can be blended at the sautéing stage and will complement the creaminess beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of arborio?

Brown rice will work, but the texture will be different. Arborio gives a creamier consistency, so adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ Is there a vegan alternative to the heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a plant-based version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the rice.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, peas, or zucchini for more variety in your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice.