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 arborio rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love whipping up creamy spinach tomato rice for a comforting dinner that feels both decadent and wholesome. This dish is the perfect way to incorporate greens into my meals without compromising on flavor. The combination of rich creaminess from the sauce with the vibrant tomatoes and nutritious spinach creates a delightful experience. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that saves me time on cleanup, making it a go-to for those busy weeknights!

Created by

Jasmine Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-15T23:22:09.140Z

I remember the first time I made creamy spinach tomato rice; it was a cold evening and I wanted something warm and nourishing. Stirring in the spinach at the last moment keeps its vibrant color and nutrition intact, while the tomatoes lend a natural sweetness. I’ve found that using arborio rice creates the perfect creamy texture, and adding a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens up the dish beautifully.

Over time, I’ve experimented with different cheeses, but I keep coming back to creamy ricotta for its mild flavor and luscious texture. To make this dish even heartier, consider adding some cooked chicken or chickpeas. It transforms the dish into a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Lush creaminess that envelops every grain of rice
Fresh spinach offers vibrant color and nutrition
Quick and easy one-pot meal for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving that lush creaminess in your creamy spinach tomato rice lies in the choice of rice. Arborio rice, known for its high starch content, becomes beautifully creamy when cooked, absorbing the vegetable broth while releasing its starches. This creates a perfect texture that’s both satisfying and hearty. If you’re looking for a substitute, Carnaroli rice or even short-grain brown rice can work, but they will alter the cooking time and final texture slightly.

Fresh spinach is not just a nutritional powerhouse; it also provides a vibrant green color that brightens your dish. Make sure to use pre-washed spinach for convenience, and if you prefer the taste, try swapping it out for kale or Swiss chard. If fresh greens are not available, frozen spinach can be a suitable alternative. Just remember to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the pot to avoid a watery dish.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Sautéing the garlic in olive oil until fragrant is crucial for developing depth of flavor in this dish. Once you add the arborio rice, ensure to stir it continuously for about 2-3 minutes. This process is known as toasting the rice, which helps create a nutty flavor and prevents sticking. Keep your heat at medium; if it’s too high, the garlic may burn, leading to a bitter taste.

When adding the vegetable broth, aim to pour it in gradually while stirring. You want the rice to absorb the broth slowly; this method allows it to release its starches effectively. Keep an eye on the rice after about 15 minutes of cooking—it should be creamy yet have a slight bite, known as al dente. If you find it too dry, a splash of extra broth or water can help reach the desired consistency.

Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup arborio rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Cook the Rice

Add arborio rice to the pot and stir for 2-3 minutes, coating it with the oil. Then, gradually add the vegetable broth, stirring frequently until the rice absorbs the liquid.

Add the Greens and Cream

Once the rice is creamy and al dente, stir in the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes or until the spinach wilts.

Finish with Cheese

Remove from heat and fold in the ricotta and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating cooked chicken or chickpeas into the rice. Fresh herbs like basil can also elevate the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy spinach tomato rice is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can cook it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a dash of vegetable broth or water to restore its creaminess as it may thicken in the fridge. I find that microwaving it in short intervals and stirring in between helps achieve an even heat.

If you’d like to freeze this dish, allow it to cool completely before portioning it out into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding some fresh spinach right before serving to retain that vibrant color and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate the dish further, consider topping it with some toasted pine nuts or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and a nutty flavor. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving can brighten the entire dish. For those who like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can add a delightful kick.

This recipe is versatile and can be turned into a full meal by adding proteins. Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp pairs beautifully with the creamy rice. For a vegetarian option, chickpeas or white beans can be mixed in for an extra protein boost. The possibilities are endless, making this dish easy to customize based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the ricotta and Parmesan with cashew cream and nutritional yeast for a vegan option.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Creamy spinach tomato rice pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a light salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little broth.

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even broccoli for a different flavor profile.