Creamy Garlic Rice with Spinach

Name: Creamy Garlic Rice with Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup Arborio rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Ideas

I love how a simple dish can bring such a depth of flavor to the table, and that's exactly what this Creamy Garlic Rice with Spinach does. The luscious garlic-infused creaminess pairs beautifully with vibrant greens. It's my go-to side when I want to impress my family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a delightful way to get in some greens! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple in your collection.

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-01-15T18:49:42.815Z

Creating this Creamy Garlic Rice with Spinach turned into a delightful adventure in my kitchen. I experimented with various herbs and spices, but ultimately, the dominant garlic flavor stole the show, creating a comforting dish that truly warms the soul. The addition of cream enhances the texture, ensuring each grain of rice is enveloped in a luscious coating.

What I discovered is that to achieve that dreamy creaminess, a splash of broth is just as essential as the cream. It unites the flavors beautifully without overpowering the garlic. This technique also allows the spinach to wilt perfectly, integrating into the dish seamlessly.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Satisfying creamy texture that complements any main dish
Rich garlic flavor that elevates your meal to gourmet status
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Cooking with Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is crucial for achieving the creamy texture in this dish. Unlike regular rice, Arborio absorbs liquid while releasing starch, which creates a luscious, risotto-like consistency. When toasting the rice in olive oil, stir it continuously for about a minute until the grains are slightly translucent but not browned; this enhances flavor and helps retain that creamy quality during cooking.

If you find yourself without Arborio rice, you can substitute it with another short-grain variety like Carnaroli or even sushi rice. Just keep in mind that varying rice types may slightly adjust cooking times and the final texture, so be sure to taste frequently to avoid overcooking.

Flavoring Your Creamy Garlic Rice

Garlic is the star of this recipe, providing an aromatic base that elevates the dish. It's essential to sauté the minced garlic until it's just fragrant—usually around 1-2 minutes—so that it doesn't become bitter. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, you can roast whole cloves in olive oil beforehand and mash them into the cream for a more subtle taste.

Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for an unexpected kick. This can enhance the dish's overall flavor profile while still complementing the creamy backdrop. Additionally, a squeeze of lemon juice at the end of cooking can brighten the dish and contrast beautifully with the richness.

Serving and Storing Tips

This creamy garlic rice is best served immediately while it's warm and creamy. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or even as a base for a vegetable stir-fry. For a crowd-pleasing option, you can turn this dish into a main by adding protein such as cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas, mixing them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore the original creamy texture. To enjoy it later, you can also freeze portions in freezer-safe containers, but note that the rice may lose some creaminess upon thawing; simply add a little cream or broth when reheating.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Ingredients

1 cup Arborio rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure to have all components ready for a quicker preparation process!

Instructions

Before starting, ensure everything is within reach to streamline the cooking process.

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Cook the Rice

Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir for 1 minute to toast the grains. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.

Simmer the Mixture

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Add the Cream and Spinach

Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the mixture is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve warm, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy this creamy delight as a side dish or even as a main course!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, feel free to incorporate herbs like thyme or basil when adding the spinach. Adjust the amount of broth based on your desired creaminess.

Nutritional Benefits of Spinach

Incorporating spinach not only adds vibrant color but also boosts the nutritional profile of this dish. Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like iron and magnesium. Cooking the spinach just until wilted in the creamy mixture retains its nutrients while enhancing its flavor. For an extra nutrition kick, consider substituting half of the spinach with kale or Swiss chard, which offers a similar texture and flavor.

For those looking to make this recipe vegan, swap heavy cream for a plant-based alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Both options will maintain a rich and creamy texture and pair wonderfully with the garlic and spinach, creating a satisfying meal that’s free from animal products.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers can introduce a delightful sweetness that contrasts effectively with the savory garlic. Another delightful twist could be incorporating herbs such as fresh basil, thyme, or parsley for an aromatic boost—add these towards the end of cooking to prevent them from wilting away.

For a heartier option, mix in cooked quinoa or farro with the rice. This not only increases the protein content but also adds a nice nutty flavor that complements the creamy garlic. You can also top the dish with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for an extra crunch that balances the creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of Arborio?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely, grilled chicken or shrimp can be excellent additions for a complete meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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