Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice

Name: Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 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 love making Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice when I want a comforting and satisfying meal that packs a punch of flavor. The rich, creamy sauce combined with the freshness of spinach and the sweetness of tomatoes creates a delightful dish that is perfect for any occasion. It’s a quick recipe that brings together wholesome ingredients, and I enjoy serving it as a main dish or a side. Join me in exploring this delightful combination that’s easy to prepare yet impressively delicious!

Created by

Kayla Monroe

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:13:08.976Z

When I first created this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was inspired by the freshness of my garden herbs and some leftover rice I had from the previous night. The combination of creamy sauce with spinach really elevates this dish, making it not just filling but refreshingly tasty. I learned that adding the tomatoes at the right moment allows them to burst in flavor without losing their shape.

The smooth texture comes from a rich base of cream and cheese that coats every grain of rice beautifully. I love to finish it off with a sprinkle of parmesan, which adds a wonderful depth. A little garlic enhances the overall flavor, making it a delight to savor during a cozy dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts and satisfies
Fresh spinach and tomatoes bring brightness to the dish
Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side for gatherings

      

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

The creamy sauce in this dish is what truly elevates its flavors. By using heavy cream, you create a rich base that beautifully complements the natural sweetness of the cherry tomatoes. Make sure to keep the heat low when adding the cream; this prevents it from separating and ensures a smooth texture. Stirring in grated parmesan cheese not only adds depth but also helps thicken the sauce, giving it that luxurious feel that coats every bite of rice.

For an extra flavor twist, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This will introduce a subtle heat without overpowering the dish's comforting essence. If you're short on parmesan, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option, maintaining that creamy, savory flavor.

Balancing Freshness and Comfort

The combination of fresh spinach and tomatoes is not just for vibrant color; it enhances the dish's nutritional profile. Spinach is rich in iron and vitamins, while tomatoes add a dose of antioxidants. Ensuring both these ingredients are cooked just right is key. The spinach should be wilted but still bright green, and the tomatoes should soften without losing their shape—about 3-4 minutes of cooking will achieve this balance. I find this process transforms the ingredients into a beautifully harmonious mixture that complements the creamy rice perfectly.

If you find yourself with extra vegetables, feel free to get creative! Substitute broccoli or bell peppers for spinach, or mix in other seasonal vegetables. Just be mindful of cooking times; denser vegetables will need a bit longer to soften, so adjust accordingly.

Ingredients

Main 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

Gather all the ingredients before you begin for an organized cooking experience!

Instructions

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Spinach and Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the spinach is wilted and tomatoes are softened.

Combine Cream and Cheese

Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix in Rice

Add the cooked rice to the skillet and gently mix it until well combined with the sauce, ensuring every grain is coated.

Serve

Once heated through, remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your creamy, flavorful rice dish!

Pro Tips

Experiment with adding herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor. You can also substitute brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Prepare the creamy sauce with the spinach and tomatoes, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet over low heat, add the cooked rice, and stir until heated through.

If you want to freeze the dish, consider storing the rice and sauce separately. This prevents the rice from becoming mushy upon thawing. Use freezer-safe containers, and it should last for about 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming everything together on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions

My favorite way to serve Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. This makes for a delightful and balanced meal that's satisfying yet light. It also pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, adding protein to make it a heartier dinner option.

For a plant-based twist, consider adding some chickpeas or lentils to the rice mix for additional protein and texture. Top the dish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving to add a pop of freshness, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a few hours in advance and reheat it on low heat before serving.

→ What can I serve with Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice?

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken or fish, or you can serve it as a vegetarian main course.

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Definitely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the excess water before adding it to the dish.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?

You can use low-fat cream or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream to reduce the calorie count.