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 cooked rice; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making creamy spinach tomato rice for a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of creamy sauce, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes creates a delightful flavor that’s both comforting and nutritious. I often prepare this dish when I have leftover rice to use up, and it's amazing how quickly it comes together—perfect for busy weeknights. You'll love how the creamy blend coats the rice and enhances each bite, making it a favorite in our home.

Created by

Keira Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:01:10.888Z

When I first tried making creamy spinach tomato rice, I wanted to create a dish that was both simple and packed with flavor. I started with a base of fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes because they balance each other beautifully in both taste and texture. The secret weapon? A splash of cream and Parmesan cheese that takes the dish to a whole new level.

The key to this recipe is to sauté the spinach just until it wilts, which keeps the color vibrant and the flavor fresh. I like to add a bit of garlic while cooking, enhancing the aroma and overall taste. Trust me, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that elevates your dining experience
A delicious way to sneak more greens into your meals
Perfect balance of flavors with minimal effort

      

Ingredient Insights

The foundation of this creamy spinach tomato rice rests on the balance and quality of its ingredients. Fresh spinach plays a crucial role, adding not just vibrant green color but also a mild earthiness that complements the richness of the heavy cream. Use baby spinach for a tender texture. Cherry tomatoes, when halved, soften and burst as they cook, providing a natural sweetness that enhances the overall dish. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute with diced regular tomatoes, but be sure to cook them a bit longer to meld the flavors.

Heavy cream gives this recipe its signature creaminess, elevating the dish from standard rice to a comforting indulgence. A lighter substitution like half-and-half or coconut milk can work, but they may not provide the same depth. Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty flavor, so opt for freshly grated to ensure it melts easily into the sauce. In a pinch, Pecorino Romano can serve as a sharp alternative.

Cooking Tips

When sautéing the garlic in olive oil, watch closely; you want it to become fragrant without burning, which can take about 30 seconds on medium heat. If it starts turning brown, reduce the heat immediately to avoid bitterness. Adding the spinach until just wilted preserves its bright color and nutritious qualities. Keep the heat steady to maintain that lovely green hue; the goal is to cook it gently without losing its appeal.

Folding in the rice gently is key to ensuring that each grain is coated with the creamy sauce without turning mushy. Aim for a consistent texture, and if the rice seems too thick, a splash of vegetable broth can help loosen it while adding flavor. If you find the mixture too creamy to your liking, feel free to adjust the amount of cream based on your preferences.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious creamy spinach tomato rice.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

These simple ingredients will come together to create a comforting and delicious dish that your whole family will love.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy spinach tomato rice.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Mix in Tomatoes

Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing thoroughly until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine with Rice

Gently fold in the cooked rice, ensuring it's well-coated with the creamy sauce. Continue to heat everything together for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Once cooked, serve warm and enjoy this delightful, creamy rice dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish can easily be prepared in advance, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. If you plan to store leftovers, simply let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of extra cream or broth to restore its creamy consistency and heat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.

If you want to freeze this creamy rice, I recommend portioning it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top. It can be frozen for up to two months. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and then proceed to reheat on the stove, as mentioned earlier. Avoid microwaving directly from frozen, as it can alter the texture of the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy spinach tomato rice serves beautifully as a main dish, but it can also complement grilled chicken, fish, or a side of sautéed vegetables. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with fresh basil or a sprinkle of additional Parmesan just before serving to enhance both presentation and flavor. I sometimes like to add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish, which balances the richness perfectly.

For a heartier meal, you could incorporate protein directly into the dish by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas during the mixing phase. Such additions not only increase the nutritional profile but also make this creamy rice an all-in-one meal solution that's satisfying and quick to prepare.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the dish.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream if you're looking for a lighter or dairy-free option.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be added for a protein boost.