Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice

Name: Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love this Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice recipe because it brings together the comfort of creamy risotto with the freshness of spinach and vibrant tomatoes. Each bite is like a warm hug, and the flavors blend beautifully to create a dish that feels both indulgent and nutritious. I often prepare this for weeknight dinners, and it never fails to impress. Plus, it comes together in just a short while, making it a perfect option for busy evenings. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Skylar Jennings

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:04:22.061Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining spinach and tomatoes in a rice dish, I was intrigued. I experimented over a few weekends and realized that the creaminess not only heightened the flavors but also made the texture delightful. The secret was to sauté the tomatoes until they burst, releasing their juices that meld perfectly with the cream.

Another tip I picked up is to use fresh spinach towards the end of cooking, which ensures it retains a vibrant green color and delicate flavor. This little step makes such a difference, giving the dish a fresh taste that pairs well with the creamy base.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, velvety texture that embraces each grain of rice
Vibrant flavors from fresh spinach and juicy tomatoes
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is the star of this creamy dish, renowned for its high starch content, which allows for that desirable creaminess without the need for excess fats. When cooked properly, Arborio rice becomes plump and soft on the outside while remaining slightly firm at the center, known as 'al dente.' This unique texture is crucial for balancing the creaminess of the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, as it creates a luxurious mouthfeel that perfectly complements the vibrant ingredients.

To avoid undercooking or overcooking your Arborio rice, keep your broth warm but not boiling while adding it gradually. Stir consistently to release the starches, which contributes to the overall creaminess. If your rice seems too dry after the broth has been absorbed, feel free to add a little more broth a few ounces at a time until you reach your desired texture.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

While this recipe features spinach and cherry tomatoes, there are numerous ways to personalize this dish. For a touch of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes during the sautéing step. Alternatively, for a more Mediterranean flair, you can incorporate feta cheese and olives right before serving. If you prefer a meatier version, sauté some diced chicken or shrimp along with the onions, ensuring they are cooked through before moving to the rice addition.

Storing leftovers is easy! Just transfer the creamy rice into an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore its creamy consistency and warm it over low heat, stirring continuously to ensure even heating.

Ingredients

Before you start, gather all your ingredients. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure it’s perfectly aligned with your taste.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully, and you'll have a delicious meal in no time!

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Rice

Stir in the Arborio rice, allowing it to toast slightly for about 2 minutes. This enhances the nutty flavor of the rice.

Incorporate the Broth

Gradually add the vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously until absorbed. This process should take about 15 minutes or until the rice is creamy but still al dente.

Mix in Spinach and Tomatoes

Once the rice is cooked, gently fold in the spinach and cherry tomatoes, allowing the spinach to wilt and the tomatoes to heat through.

Finish with Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve the creamy spinach tomato rice hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your delicious dish as a standalone meal or as a side with grilled proteins!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice can shine as a main dish or serve as a flavorful side. For a complete meal, pair it with grilled chicken or baked fish, allowing the freshness of the spinach and tomatoes to balance the richer protein. A light side salad with a vinaigrette can also brighten up the dish, making for a well-rounded dinner experience.

For a fun, family-friendly twist, consider turning this rice into stuffed peppers. After cooking, fill halved bell peppers with the creamy rice mixture and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the peppers are tender and slightly charred. This not only makes for an eye-catching presentation but offers a deliciously unique serving style.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your rice comes out too sticky, it’s likely that you’ve added the broth too quickly or stirred too little, which prevents the necessary starch release. Always monitor the broth addition, and ensure you're using a gentle stir to promote even cooking without clumping.

On the other hand, if your rice feels too watery, it may be due to too much broth at once. In such cases, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate. A quick taste check during the cooking process will also help you adjust the texture before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio rice?

While brown rice can be used, it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid, so adjustments will be needed.

→ Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth.

→ Can this dish be frozen?

It's best to consume this dish fresh, but if freezing, store it in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.