How to freeze tomato paste in convenient portions! Reduce food waste and save money by stashing away leftover tomato paste in the freezer for later.
Are you taking advantage of all the ingredients you could be freezing? We freeze almost everything, using these plastic-free storage ideas!
Tomato paste is a pantry staple that is useful in so many different recipes to add amazing depth of flavor. But if youre using canned tomato paste, its almost impossible to use up a whole can (despite the small size) in one recipe.
If you often find yourself wasting tomato paste, then this tip is for you! Freezing tomato paste in small portions is so much easier than storing it away in the fridge – where its usually forgotten and ends up going bad!
Yes, however, I find tablespoon size scoops to be easier. This allows me to wrap each portion in parchment paper to keep it fresh. Tomato sauce and tomato puree are easier to freeze in an ice cube tray since it is liquid.
Reasons To Freeze Tomato Paste
- prevent food waste
- convenient small portions make it easy to add into recipes
Watch the video below to see how to freeze tomato paste! You can find more of my recipe videos on my YouTube channel.
Step by step directions
Line a plate or baking sheet with wax paper or parchment paper, then add 1 tablespoon-sized dollops of tomato paste onto the parchment paper.
Tip – you could use a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop for this if you want to be even more precise!
Place the plate or baking sheet into the freezer, allowing the tomato paste to freeze completely for 2-3 hours.
Once frozen solid, wrap the frozen tomato paste with wax paper to prevent freezer burn.
Store in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3-6 months!
Our top picks for the best freezer containers to help your food stay fresh and free from freezer burn! From bags to soup storage to meal prep containers and more.
Tomato paste is an ultra-concentrated seedless tomato sauce that has been cooked down to reduce the water content, resulting in a very flavorful purée. Its used to add a punch of flavor to many savory recipes!
Since tomato paste is very concentrated, it will likely last a long time in the freezer without spoiling. Plus, the parchment paper and sealed storage container will help it to last longer without freezer burn. That being said, we recommend using it up within 3-6 months!
There are so many unexpected ingredients you could be freezing! From cauliflower rice to oatmeal, this post with 12 ingredients you could be freezing covers it all.
In these delicious recipes that call for 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste:
- Freeze – store in an airtight container in the freezer for 3-6 months
- Thaw – thaw individual portions, or add frozen directly into any recipe that calls for tomato paste!
Did you make this? Tag me on social @sweetpeasandsaffron and be sure to leave a comment and rate the recipe!
What is the Best Way to Save Leftover Tomato Paste?
FAQ
Does tomato puree freeze well?
Can you freeze tomato paste once it’s been opened?
Can I freeze tomato puree in a tube?
How long can you keep tomato puree in the freezer?
Freezer storage duration: Tomato puree can be stored in the freezer for an extended period. While it will remain safe to eat indefinitely, the quality and flavor may gradually deteriorate over time. For the best quality, it is recommended to use the frozen tomato puree within 3 to 6 months.
Can one freeze tomatoes?
Yes. Tomatoes may be frozen raw or cooked, whole, sliced, chopped, or puréed. They do not need to be blanched before freezing. Frozen tomatoes will retain their flavor for 12 months.
How do you store tomato puree?
Airtight containers or freezer bags: Choose airtight containers or freezer bags that are designed for freezing and can withstand low temperatures without leaking. Plastic containers with tight-fitting lids or high-quality freezer bags work well for storing tomato puree. Ensure that the containers or bags are clean and dry before filling them.
Can you freeze tomato paste?
Use a measuring spoon to drop dollops of tomato paste into a small pan or container. I like to line the pan with freezer paper or wax paper. Freeze the dollops of tomato paste until solid. Put the pan with the tomato paste lumps into the freezer and freeze overnight or until they are solid. Put in a bag or container for long-term freezer storage.