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 of arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 4 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

When I first experimented with Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together perfectly. Each bite combines the earthiness of spinach with the bright acidity of tomatoes, and the creaminess just ties it all together. We’ve enjoyed this dish not just as a main meal, but also as a side at family gatherings. Its vibrant color and comforting texture make it a delightful addition to any table. I’m excited to share this recipe with you so you can experience the joy it brings!

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:34:14.250Z

Making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is one of my favorite weeknight dinner solutions. I found that using fresh spinach makes all the difference in flavor and texture. The tomatoes provide a natural sweetness, while the cream gives it a luscious quality that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. I recommend sautéing the spinach just until wilted, as this keeps its vibrant green color and nutritional benefits.

What I particularly love about this dish is how adaptable it is. If you have leftover rice, this is the perfect way to use it up. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or red pepper flakes can elevate the taste, so feel free to customize it to your family's favorite flavors. The best part? It’s all done in under 30 minutes!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy flavor profile satisfying to the palate
Bright colors make it visually appealing on any plate
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is essential for achieving that creamy texture in Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. Unlike regular long-grain rice, Arborio has a high starch content which, when cooked, releases a natural creaminess. This characteristic helps the dish become rich and satisfying, making it a favorite among risotto lovers. Make sure to thoroughly rinse the rice under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch; this will prevent it from becoming overly sticky while still allowing the creaminess to develop during cooking.

When cooking Arborio rice, keep an eye on the texture. You want it to be al dente—soft but still with a slight bite to it. If it becomes overcooked, it can turn mushy, ruining the overall texture of your dish. A helpful tip is to taste it a couple of minutes before the recommended cooking time to ensure it reaches the right consistency.

Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Fresh spinach not only adds vibrant color to your dish but also contributes a subtle earthiness that complements the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully. When selecting spinach, opt for leaves that are dark green and crisp; this will ensure that they retain their nutritional value and flavor. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water beforehand to avoid making your dish watery.

Tomatoes are another key player in this recipe. Using canned diced tomatoes allows you to maintain consistency in flavor regardless of the season. If you're feeling adventurous, try swapping this with roasted tomatoes to impart a deeper, sweeter flavor. Just chop them finely if you're using larger pieces, and remember that the acidity will slightly decrease, so adjust seasoning accordingly.

Make-Ahead and Serving Suggestions

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be prepped in advance, making it ideal for meal planning. You can cook the rice and sauté the vegetables ahead of time. Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the components separately before combining them as directed in the recipe. This method keeps flavors bright and fresh upon serving, ensuring that your dish doesn't lose its appeal.

For a delightful twist, consider serving this dish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes for extra heat. Pair it with a light salad or some grilled chicken to round out your meal. Leftovers can be stored, and they reheat well; simply add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your own Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice:

Main Ingredients

1 cup of arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
4 cups fresh spinach
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for a smooth preparation process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy dish:

Cook the Rice

In a pot, add the arborio rice and vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is creamy and al dente.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they are translucent. Then, add the drained diced tomatoes and cook for another 3 minutes.

Add Spinach and Cream

Stir in the fresh spinach into the pan and cook just until wilted. Then, lower the heat and mix in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Combine

Once the rice is cooked, fold it into the sautéed spinach, tomato, and cream mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything heat through together for about 2 minutes.

And there you have it, a deliciously creamy dish that is sure to impress!

Pro Tips

If you want to add some protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be wonderful additions. Also, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.

Creative Variations

Feel free to personalize your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice by incorporating other ingredients that suit your taste or dietary preferences. For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chickpeas or white beans to the mixture. They not only add texture but also enhance the heartiness of the dish. Alternatively, you can include sautéed mushrooms to elevate the umami factor, which pairs marvelously with the creaminess of the dish.

If you're looking for a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, which will add a subtle sweetness. Vegan cheese can be sprinkled on top for extra flavor without compromising the dish's essence, ensuring that it remains comforting and satisfying.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when preparing creamy dishes is a separation of ingredients—typically, this happens when the cream is added to high heat. To avoid this, always lower the heat before incorporating the cream into the recipe. Stir it gently until combined, and avoid boiling after the cream is added, as this can lead to curdling. Keeping the heat moderate ensures a smooth and cohesive dish.

If you find that your rice has absorbed too much liquid and is dry, add a splash of vegetable broth or a bit more cream during the combining step. This little precaution can save your dish from becoming a dry mound. Always adjust seasoning after adding any additional liquid to maintain the dish's robust flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw it and drain excess moisture before adding it to the dish.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as written, using vegetable broth. Just ensure that your cream is not sourced from animal products if you're considering vegan options.

→ What type of rice works best for this dish?

Arborio rice is ideal for its creamy texture, but you can use any short-grain rice as a substitute.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the consistency if needed.