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 fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice because it combines creamy goodness with vibrant flavors. Whenever I prepare this dish, I am amazed at how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. The richness of the cream melds beautifully with the fresh spinach and tangy tomatoes, creating a delightful balance that tantalizes the taste buds. Plus, the aroma that fills my kitchen is simply irresistible, making it hard to wait for it to be ready!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:22:12.589Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining spinach and tomatoes in a creamy rice dish, I was intrigued. After experimenting with different flavors, I found that adding garlic and spices truly elevated the overall taste. I usually start by sautéing the garlic until fragrant, which really brings out the best in the vegetables and creates a wonderful base for the dish.

Moreover, I discovered that using arborio rice not only enhances the creaminess but also contributes a lovely texture that keeps everything together. Each bite is a delicious blend of flavors, and I can’t help but feel proud whenever I serve it to my family!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that coats each grain of rice perfectly
Fresh spinach adds a vibrant green pop of color
Tasty, quick to prepare, and satisfies both adults and kids

      

The Role of Arborio Rice

Using Arborio rice in this recipe is essential for achieving the traditional creamy texture characteristic of risotto. This short-grain rice has a high starch content that releases during cooking, creating a naturally thick and luxurious risotto without the need for excess cream or cheese. When adding the rice to the skillet, make sure to stir continuously for a few minutes; this helps toast the grains and enhances the nutty flavor, allowing your dish to be flavorful from the start.

If you're in a pinch and don't have Arborio rice on hand, you can substitute it with other short-grain rice like Carnaroli or even sushi rice. Just keep in mind that these alternatives may not produce the same level of creaminess. Adjust the cooking time slightly as needed, as different types of rice may absorb liquids at different rates.

Cooking the Vegetables

When sautéing the onion, you'll want to aim for a light golden color. This process not only brings out the sweetness of the onion but also builds a solid flavor foundation for the creamy sauce. If you notice any browning too quickly, just lower the heat to ensure it doesn’t burn, which can impart a bitter taste to the dish.

The addition of fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes at the end is not only stunning in appearance but also enhances the dish's nutritional profile. Ensure you fold them in gently to retain their vibrant colors and textures. The tomatoes will soften and release juices, while the spinach will wilt down, creating a beautiful medley that complements the richness of the cream.

Serving Suggestions

For an eye-catching presentation, consider serving this dish in shallow bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a few extra halved cherry tomatoes on top. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also a burst of flavor with every bite. A fresh drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can further enhance the richness and impart a nice glossy finish.

If you would like to turn this creamy rice into a more substantial meal, consider adding grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or roasted vegetables. Not only does this increase the protein content, but it also adds additional layers of flavor. Just be sure to accommodate any additional cooking times for the proteins, ensuring everything is served warm and fresh.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smooth!

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Once everything is prepared, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy delight!

Sauté the Base

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

Add the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast and soak up the flavors.

Incorporate Liquids

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is al dente.

Mix in Spinach and Tomatoes

Fold in the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes, allowing them to wilt slightly. Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Once well combined and creamy, remove from heat. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Enjoy your creamy creation!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or swap the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up as needed, which keeps it from becoming too thick.

If you want to freeze leftovers, do so in a freezer-safe container. It can be kept for up to three months. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it on the stove. Remember to check the seasoning before serving to ensure it tastes fresh.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your rice is too dry during cooking, add the vegetable broth a little at a time, stirring continuously. This will help the grains absorb moisture without becoming mushy. Ideally, the final texture should be creamy and velvety without being soupy. If you feel it has become too dry at any point, don't hesitate to add more liquid gradually.

Another common issue is overcooking the spinach. Make sure to fold it in just before serving. It should retain its bright green color and a slight bite. Overcooking not only diminishes its nutritional value but can also lead to a wilted texture that isn’t as appealing.

Flavor Variations

For a delightful twist on the flavor profile, consider adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or feta cheese. These additions can enhance the dish's overall depth and provide a salty contrast to the creamy base. Alternatively, fresh herbs like basil or thyme can bring a fragrant dimension that pairs beautifully with the spinach and tomatoes.

If you enjoy a little heat, adding red pepper flakes during the sautéing process brings an exciting kick to the dish. Just start with a small pinch and adjust according to your taste preferences. This simple addition can elevate the overall experience, making it more dynamic and flavorful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the dish.

→ What can I serve with this rice dish?

This creamy rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh green salad.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

The recipe is already vegetarian, but if you want a vegan option, use coconut cream and vegetable broth.

→ Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice mixture ahead of time and simply reheat it when you're ready to serve.