Creamy Tomato Rice with Herbs

Name: Creamy Tomato Rice with Herbs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making creamy tomato rice with herbs because it’s a dish that truly warms the soul. Every bite offers a delightful blend of tangy tomatoes and aromatic herbs, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any day. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and the creaminess takes the flavor to another level. Whether I’m serving it on a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend, it always satisfies. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or simply on its own for a satisfying vegetarian option!

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:33:35.353Z

During one of my weekend cooking sessions, I wanted to create something comforting yet simple. I settled on creamy tomato rice and infused it with fresh herbs from my garden. The method I used worked wonders because the slow-simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The creaminess offers a rich contrast to the acidity of the tomatoes, making each spoonful incredibly satisfying.

As I tasted it, I noted that adding a pinch of sugar balances the acidity perfectly, enhancing the overall flavor. This dish is not just delicious; it’s a reminder of how simple ingredients can produce something extraordinary. It truly is the perfect comfort food!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that comforts the palate
Bright flavors from fresh herbs elevate the dish
Quick and easy, perfect for weeknight dinners

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality ingredients is key to making a flavorful creamy tomato rice. The basmati rice provides a fragrant and fluffy texture, while the diced tomatoes bring acidity that balances the richness of the cream. When selecting tomatoes, look for those that are canned at their peak ripeness for the best flavor. Fresh basil adds a burst of brightness, enhancing the dish's overall freshness and aromatic qualities. Don't underestimate the impact of a good vegetable broth; a rich and savory broth will deepen the flavor significantly.

If you're aiming for a more vibrant flavor, consider using homemade vegetable broth. This way, you can control the salt and temper the flavors to match your taste. Alternatively, for a gluten-free option, confirm that the broth label indicates it's gluten-free. And for those with dairy limitations, substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream can yield a similarly satisfying creaminess without compromising too much on taste.

Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Rice

Cooking basmati rice to perfection requires a careful balance of water and heat. Always remember to rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear; this removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy. For this recipe, using a 2:1 ratio of broth to rice ensures each grain is tender and separate. Once your rice is simmering, it’s crucial to keep the pot covered and avoid lifting the lid. This helps maintain steam, resulting in even cooking over the 15 minutes at low heat.

After cooking, it’s essential to let the rice rest for a few minutes before fluffing it with a fork. This allows any remaining steam to finish the cooking process and prevents the grains from clumping together. If upon finishing it seems too dry, a quick splash of broth or additional cream can bring back the desired creamy texture. I always keep an eye on it during the cooking process; if the liquid is evaporating too quickly, reducing the heat can save your dish from becoming overly dry.

Ingredients

For the Rice

1 cup basmati rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
Fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Rice

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and golden, about 5 minutes.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer, then add the basmati rice. Cover and reduce heat to low, cooking for 15 minutes.

Finish with Cream and Herbs

Once the rice is tender, remove it from heat and gently stir in the heavy cream and fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pro Tips

Add a dash of lemon juice before serving for an extra zing of flavor!

Serving Suggestions

Creamy tomato rice with herbs is incredibly versatile. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp, allowing the creamy rice to soak up the flavorful juices from the proteins. Alternatively, as a vegetarian option, pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. Adding toasted pine nuts or parmesan cheese on top right before serving can also elevate the dish's flavor and add a delightful crunch.

If you want to change up the serving style, consider turning the rice into a filling for stuffed peppers. Simply mix the cooked rice with additional herbs and spices, fill your pepper halves, and bake them until the peppers are tender. This can be a fantastic make-ahead option, allowing you to prepare the dish in advance and simply reheat it when needed.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about creamy tomato rice is that it stores and reheats well. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. When ready to reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to restore its creaminess.

If preparing the dish ahead of time, you can also cook the rice and the sauce separately. Combine them just before serving, which ensures the rice maintains its fluffy texture. This method is perfect for meal prepping, as you can quickly assemble a comforting dish any day of the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of basmati?

Yes, but the cooking time will increase. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook.

→ What herbs can I substitute?

You can use parsley, thyme, or even a pinch of dried Italian herbs if fresh ones are unavailable.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for the cream?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a vegan option.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be great additions to make it more filling.