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 basmati rice; 2 cups of vegetable broth; 1 cup of fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup of diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup of heavy cream; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I can't get enough of this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice! It's a dish that brings together creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and comforting warmth, making it a go-to for dinner any night of the week. What I love most is how quick it comes together, yet feels like a luxurious meal. The combination of fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes adds a lovely freshness, and the hint of garlic takes it over the top. Once you try it, I'm sure you'll appreciate how effortlessly delicious it is!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-16T00:52:12.957Z

When I first experimented with Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was amazed at how well the flavors blended together. I started with fresh ingredients, choosing the ripest tomatoes and vibrant spinach. The key is to sauté the garlic just long enough for it to turn golden but not burnt. This step adds a deeper flavor that enhances the dish's overall profile.

Another tip I've learned is to let the rice sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully while the creaminess settles in. Trust me; it’s the little things that elevate this simple meal into something truly special!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, dreamy texture that embraces every grain of rice
Vibrant flavors from fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
Hearty yet healthy, satisfying without being heavy

      

Perfecting the Rice

Choosing the right type of rice is crucial for this dish. Basmati rice is ideal due to its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture. When cooking the rice, ensure you maintain a gentle simmer after covering the saucepan. If you rush this step, the rice may become gummy. Fluffing with a fork at the end prevents clumping and helps maintain its light, airy quality, which complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

If basmati isn't available, jasmine rice is a good substitute, though it may take a couple of minutes less to cook. Just be sure to adjust the liquid accordingly—about 1.5 cups of broth per cup of jasmine rice works well to keep the texture just right.

Sautéing for Flavor

Sautéing the garlic in olive oil is a foundational step that brings depth to the dish. Aim for a gentle heat, around medium, to avoid burning the garlic, which can turn bitter. The goal is to achieve a fragrant aroma and a light golden color in about 1-2 minutes. I always recommend keeping an eye on it; burnt garlic can overshadow the dish's overall freshness.

Moreover, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a touch of heat that enhances the tomatoes' natural sweetness. This tiny addition can elevate the flavor profile and give a slight warmth that balances the creaminess.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Leftover Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to restore moisture and ensure it doesn't dry out, warming it over low heat. You may also opt to serve it right from the skillet, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan for an eye-catching presentation.

For a twist on serving, consider pairing it with grilled chicken or shrimp. The creaminess of the rice contrasts nicely with the smoky flavors from the grill. You can also top the dish with a handful of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for an added crunch and richness.

Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup of basmati rice
2 cups of vegetable broth
1 cup of fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup of diced tomatoes
1/2 cup of heavy cream
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all the ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the basmati rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove it from the heat and fluff the rice with a fork.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.

Add Spinach and Tomatoes

Now, add the chopped spinach and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.

Combine and Finish

Stir in the cooked rice and heavy cream. Mix everything well, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of fresh spinach and tomatoes not only boosts flavor but also adds vital nutrients to your meal. Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, while tomatoes provide antioxidants like lycopene. Together, they create a well-rounded dish that feels indulgent yet is wholesome and nourishing. If you're using frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before adding it to the skillet.

Cream is essential for achieving that luscious, creamy texture, but if you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even a plant-based cream. Just bear in mind that these alternatives may alter the final creaminess slightly; you might need to adjust the quantities to maintain balance.

Variations to Try

If you want to experiment with flavors, adding a dash of lemon juice or zest just before serving can brighten the dish. This will not only enhance the flavors of spinach and tomatoes but also cut through the richness of the cream, creating a well-rounded bite.

You can also incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. Just sauté them briefly with the garlic to soften them without losing their crunch. This adds both variety and color to the dish, making it even more appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, grilled chicken or shrimp would work wonderfully in this creamy rice dish.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.