Creamy Lemon Spinach Rice

Name: Creamy Lemon Spinach Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Lemon Spinach Rice! This dish combines the wholesome goodness of fresh spinach with the bright, zesty flavor of lemon, creating a heavenly combination that dances on your palate. The creamy texture wraps around the rice perfectly, making it a comforting side dish or a delightful main. Every bite bursts with flavor, and it’s incredibly easy to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:28:11.679Z

When I first experimented with Creamy Lemon Spinach Rice, I was amazed at how the simplicity of the ingredients could create such a delightful dish. The trick is to sauté the spinach just enough to wilt it without losing its vibrant color. Adding lemon juice at the end balances the creaminess, elevating the overall flavor profile. My family devoured it, asking for seconds!

I also discovered that using a mix of brown and white rice adds depth and nutrition to the dish. You can customize it by adding nuts or protein, making it versatile for different meals. I highly recommend trying it with grilled chicken or shrimp!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty lemon flavor complements the creamy texture
Nutritious spinach adds vibrant color and health benefits
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Role of Spinach

Spinach is not just a nutritional powerhouse; it adds a vibrant green color that enhances the visual appeal of this dish. The key to retaining its bright color and nutrients is to sauté it just until wilted. Cooking it for about 2-3 minutes ensures it stays tender but maintains that beautiful green hue. Be cautious not to overcook, as this can lead to a dull color and a loss of nutrients, which we definitely want to preserve.

When choosing spinach, opt for fresh, preferably organic varieties if available. Look for leaves that are deep green and crisp. If you have baby spinach on hand, you can use that; it requires even less cooking time. Frozen spinach can work in a pinch, but make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to prevent excess water from making the dish soggy.

Perfecting the Cream

The heavy cream is what gives this dish its signature creamy texture, but it's crucial to watch how you incorporate it. Add the cream slowly to the skillet after combining the rice and spinach. This prevents the cream from curdling and ensures it melds perfectly with the warm ingredients, creating a luscious sauce. Make sure to heat it gently to avoid boiling, which can cause separation.

If you're looking to lighten up the dish, consider using half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute. However, be aware that this can slightly alter the richness. For a vegan version, coconut cream can work well; just note that it will impart a distinct coconut flavor that could complement the lemon nicely.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Lemon Spinach Rice works wonderfully as a side dish, pairing beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. To elevate it even further, consider topping it with some toasted pine nuts or almonds for added texture and flavor. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can also enhance the overall taste and aroma, brightening the zesty lemon notes in the dish.

For a heartier main meal, you can easily turn this recipe into a one-pot dish by adding cooked protein like chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as the added ingredients will require some balancing with salt and pepper. You can make this dish ahead of time, and it reheats wonderfully in the microwave; just add a splash of water or additional cream to revive the creamy texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make Creamy Lemon Spinach Rice:

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure to have everything ready to ensure a seamless cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Creamy Lemon Spinach Rice:

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is fluffy and the broth is absorbed.

Sauté the Spinach

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked rice to the skillet with spinach. Pour in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Heat through for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and additional lemon zest if desired.

Enjoy your Creamy Lemon Spinach Rice as a delightful side or main dish!

Pro Tips

For added nutrition, consider mixing in some cooked chicken or chickpeas. This dish can also be made with brown rice for a healthier twist.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of heavy cream, replacing it with Greek yogurt can add creaminess and a slight tang, making it a healthier option. Mix it in just before serving to maintain its creamy consistency without overheating, which could cause it to curdle.

For those looking for a gluten-free option, ensure that you’re using certified gluten-free rice and broth. You can easily switch out vegetable broth for chicken broth if you're not vegetarian, as it offers another layer of flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, and adding a splash of broth or cream to restore its creaminess.

For longer storage, you can freeze the rice mixture. However, consider omitting the cream before freezing, as it might affect the texture upon thawing. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat, and stir in the cream when it’s warmed through to achieve that luscious consistency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rice ends up sticky, it may have been cooked with too much liquid or stirred too frequently. For fluffier rice, rinse it under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch, and avoid stirring while it simmers.

If the final dish seems too wide on flavor, adjusting the lemon juice and zest can help brighten it up. Taste as you go; sometimes, just a hint more citrus is all you need to elevate the dish to perfection!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the recipe.

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or any plant-based cream alternative.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.