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: 2 cups of cooked rice; 1 cup of fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup of heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice for its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture. It's a dish that combines the goodness of tender spinach with juicy tomatoes, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect when I want a comforting meal that doesn't require too much time or effort. Not to mention, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover rice I might have in the fridge. Every bite is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a favorite in our household.

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:52:14.022Z

When I first experimented with combining spinach and tomatoes in a creamy sauce, I didn’t expect such a delightful outcome. The creaminess pairs perfectly with the freshness of spinach and the acidity of tomatoes, creating a well-balanced dish. It’s so versatile that I often serve it as a side or even a main dish with a protein on the side.

One of my favorite tips is to use fresh spinach—its vibrant color and taste elevate the dish significantly. Also, I add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese right before serving to enhance the flavor profile further. Trust me; it makes a difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that brings comfort to dinner time
Nutritious spinach blended with tangy tomatoes
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients can significantly elevate the flavors in Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice. I always recommend opting for fresh spinach rather than frozen because it has a brighter taste and better texture. Fresh spinach wilts quickly, maintaining its vibrant green color, which makes the final dish visually appealing too. The same goes for tomatoes; using ripe cherry tomatoes adds a natural sweetness that can't be replicated with canned varieties.

Additionally, the choice of heavy cream is crucial. Full-fat cream creates that luxurious, creamy texture that brings the dish together. If you're looking to lighten it up, you can substitute half-and-half, but be aware that it will result in a less rich sauce. Keep an eye on the simmering process to ensure the cream doesn’t separate, which can happen if it gets too hot.

Tips for Perfecting the Dish

Timing is key when sautéing the garlic and tomatoes. Cook the garlic only until it's fragrant—generally around two minutes—to avoid any bitterness that can occur if it browns too much. The tomatoes should become soft but not mushy, providing that perfect texture to complement the creamy sauce. This balance creates a lovely burst of flavor with every bite of rice.

To incorporate more nutrition, consider adding additional vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. These veggies can be added along with the tomatoes for a more colorful and nutrient-dense dish. If you have leftover roasted vegetables, they can also be tossed in at the final step to warm through, offering even more variation.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice.

Ingredients

2 cups of cooked rice
1 cup of fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup of heavy cream
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Spinach

Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Mix in the Cream

Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together, and season with salt and pepper.

Combine with Rice

Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring until everything is well combined and heated through.

Serve and Garnish

Serve warm, topped with grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy and flavorful dish!

Pro Tips

For a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic. Additionally, using brown rice can enhance the dish's texture and nutritional profile.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be prepared ahead of time for a quick meal later. If you're looking to make it in advance, I recommend cooking the rice and preparing the creamy sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge; they can last for about 3 days. When you're ready to eat, simply combine everything in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring to ensure the cream doesn’t separate.

If you decide to freeze the dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an appropriate container. It can be frozen for up to a month. When reheating, be sure to do it slowly over low heat to maintain a creamy consistency—add a splash of milk or extra cream if the sauce appears too thick.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

To enhance the flavors of Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a balanced meal. The richness of the dish complements lean proteins beautifully. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, roasted chickpeas or a side of garlicky bread can create a hearty and satisfying dinner.

Garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or a sprinkle of chili flakes can also elevate the presentation and flavor. Consider adding a side salad with a citrusy vinaigrette to brighten up the meal, providing a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the rice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the parmesan cheese for a vegan version.

→ What type of rice should I use?

You can use any type of cooked rice, but jasmine or basmati rice works particularly well in this recipe.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of water if needed.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken or shrimp are great additions if you're looking to make this a more filling meal.