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

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love creating comforting dishes that come together quickly, and Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice is one of my favorites! This recipe brings together creamy textures and vibrant flavors, making it a delightful meal that can brighten up any day. The combination of earthy spinach and tangy tomatoes enhances the rice, creating a dish that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, it’s sure to become a go-to in my kitchen.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:46:15.642Z

When I first made Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice, I was surprised by how easily it transformed from ordinary ingredients into a vibrant dish. The creamy texture comes from a blend of cheese and cream, which not only adds richness but also coats every grain of rice beautifully. I’ve found that using fresh spinach creates the best flavor, but you can always use frozen if you’re in a pinch.

One tip I picked up is to sauté the garlic before mixing in the tomatoes, which adds a depth of flavor that enhances the entire dish. The contrasting textures between the creamy sauce and the tender rice make every bite satisfying. I love serving this rice with grilled chicken or as a standalone dish topped with Parmesan for an extra touch!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and rich sauce that perfectly coats the rice
Fresh spinach and tomatoes for a burst of flavor
Quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving the creamy texture in Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice lies in the combination of cream cheese and Parmesan cheese. The cream cheese adds a luxurious richness while the Parmesan provides a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. These cheeses work together to create a sauce that clings beautifully to the rice, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using Neufchâtel cheese in place of cream cheese—it offers similar creaminess with less fat.

Fresh spinach not only adds vibrant color but also brings a wealth of nutrients to the dish. When sautéed briefly, it wilts down, releasing its moisture and flavor while maintaining a slight texture that complements the softness of the rice. If fresh spinach isn’t available, frozen spinach can be used as a substitute. Simply thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the skillet; it won’t require as long to cook.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When cooking the rice, it’s important to keep an eye on the heat level. Start with a high heat to bring the vegetable broth to a boil, then reduce it to low heat promptly to prevent the rice from becoming mushy. Covering the saucepan helps maintain steam, which ensures the rice cooks evenly within about 15 minutes. If you find any excess water remains after cooking, remove the lid and let it simmer for a couple of minutes longer to absorb it completely.

Sautéing the garlic until fragrant—about one minute—is crucial to prevent it from burning, which can impart a bitter flavor. The tomatoes should be tender and begin to burst, releasing their juices to form a part of the sauce. A wooden spoon works well for this step, allowing you to gently press them down while cooking, ensuring their flavors meld beautifully with the sautéed garlic.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Gather all these ingredients to prepare for a delicious meal!

Instructions

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until fully cooked. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until soft.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Then, reduce the heat and mix in the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.

Mix with Rice

Fold the cooked rice into the spinach-tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well combined.

Serve

Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your creamy creation!

Make sure to enjoy your Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice while it’s fresh!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice as a satisfying main dish or as a side alongside grilled chicken or fish. For additional flair, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can enhance the dish's brightness, beautifully balancing the richness of the sauce. If you'd like to add more protein, shredded rotisserie chicken or chickpeas can be folded in for a heartier meal.

For an elegant presentation, try garnishing with fresh basil or parsley just before serving. These herbs not only add a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the creamy elements. You can also serve this dish with a side salad or garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce, creating a complete and inviting meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Creamy Spinach Tomato Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often develop further as they sit, making this dish even tastier the next day. However, keep in mind that the rice may absorb some of the creaminess, so you might want to add a splash of broth or a dollop of cream cheese when reheating to restore the desired texture.

To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. You can add a little water or broth to help loosen it up. If you prefer to use a microwave, cover the container loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, heat in short intervals, and stir in between to ensure even heating. This quick approach allows you to reclaim the dish's creamy goodness without much fuss.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding.

→ What type of rice is best for this recipe?

I recommend using long-grain rice, but you can substitute with brown rice for a healthier alternative.

→ Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can use coconut cream and nutritional yeast to achieve a creamy texture without dairy.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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