The versatility of frozen tomatoes is often overlooked, but they can be a game-changer in the kitchen. Not only do they preserve the nutrients and flavor of fresh tomatoes, but they’re also incredibly convenient to use. No more worrying about ripe or unripe tomatoes or dealing with bruised and battered ones – just pop them into your freezer and let the magic begin! Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a comforting soup, or a flavorful sauce to elevate your favorite dishes, frozen tomatoes have got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and innovative ways to use frozen tomatoes. From spicy salsas to creamy soups, and from savory sauces to sweet and tangy chutneys, we’ve rounded up some of the most mouthwatering recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. So grab a bag of frozen tomatoes and get ready to cook up a storm!
Spicy Frozen Tomato Salsa
This refreshing salsa combines the sweetness of tomatoes with a spicy kick, perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or veggies. With just a few simple ingredients and no cooking required, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful condiment in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, and honey.
2. Blend until the mixture is smooth, but still slightly chunky.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Spoon the salsa into an ice cube tray and freeze for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking, just blending and freezing.
Yield: About 8-10 frozen cubes of spicy tomato salsa.
Creamy Frozen Tomato Soup
A comforting and creamy take on classic tomato soup, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a flavorful addition to your favorite sandwich or salad. This recipe makes 4 servings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen chopped tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the frozen tomatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, and dried basil. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the soup into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
6. Transfer the frozen soup cubes to a freezer-safe bag or container. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (plus freezing time)
Frozen Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce
Enjoy a taste of summer all year round with this simple and delicious frozen tomato basil pasta sauce recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen tomatoes (such as San Marzano)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine frozen tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container or freezer bag.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready to use straight from the fridge or freezer. Simply thaw and reheat when needed.
Roasted Garlic Frozen Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your bruschetta game with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and frozen tomatoes. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 3-4 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated
– 1 cup frozen cherry tomatoes, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the sliced garlic on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold to create a packet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices until lightly browned.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the roasted garlic and thawed cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top toasted baguette slices with the garlic-tomato mixture and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting garlic) + 10-15 minutes (toasting bread)
Frozen Tomato and Mozzarella Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of frozen tomatoes with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese, perfect for a light and easy meal or as a side dish. The freezing process brings out the natural sweetness in the tomatoes, creating a unique flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen cherry tomatoes
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine frozen cherry tomatoes.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Top the tomatoes with sliced mozzarella cheese.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply thaw frozen tomatoes by leaving them at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Frozen Tomato Gazpacho
Enjoy a chilled and flavorful soup that captures the essence of summer with this simple recipe for Frozen Tomato Gazpacho. Perfect for hot days, this refreshing soup is made with just a few ingredients and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen tomatoes
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Combine frozen tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and parsley in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add blended mixture to the skillet, along with broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until soup has reached desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Lentil Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. This recipe uses frozen tomatoes to add natural sweetness and creaminess without the need for heavy creams.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, etc.)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
2. Add diced tomatoes, frozen vegetables, cumin, curry powder, and salt. Stir well.
3. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Olive Tapenade
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing frozen tomato and olive tapenade, perfect for hot summer days. This recipe combines the sweetness of frozen tomatoes with the brininess of olives and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen cherry tomatoes
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your food processor or blender until it’s cold.
2. Add the frozen cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, garlic, and olive oil. Process until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the tapenade to a serving bowl or jar.
Cooking Time:
– 5 minutes (processing time)
Serve: Spread on crackers, crostini, or use as a dip for vegetables.
Frozen Tomato and Corn Chowder
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this flavorful chowder, perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe is a great way to use up frozen tomatoes and corn, making it an economical and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the frozen tomatoes and corn kernels. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the mixture is tender.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Spinach Quiche
This quiche is a perfect way to use up frozen vegetables and is great for brunch or breakfast on-the-go. With its flaky crust, creamy filling, and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups frozen chopped tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Add frozen tomatoes, spinach, and cheddar cheese to the egg mixture; stir until well combined.
5. Pour the filling into the pie crust and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Shrimp Scampi
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this quick and flavorful scampi dish, featuring frozen tomatoes and succulent shrimp. Perfect for a busy evening when you need a meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup frozen cherry tomatoes, thawed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Add the frozen tomatoes, white wine (if using), lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Chickpea Stew
This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, showcasing the versatility of frozen tomatoes and chickpeas. The result is a comforting and nutritious stew that’s easy to prepare and can be served as a main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen chopped tomatoes
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the frozen tomatoes, chickpeas, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Eggplant Parmesan
Transform your freezer staples into a delicious Italian-inspired dish with this quick and easy recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch, it’s a creative way to use up frozen tomatoes and eggplant.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen tomato sauce
– 2 cups sliced frozen eggplant
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the frozen eggplant slices and cook until thawed and lightly browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. In a separate baking dish, combine the frozen tomato sauce and cooked eggplant slices.
4. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Avocado Guacamole
Combine the sweetness of frozen tomatoes with the creaminess of avocado for a unique and delicious dip. Perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a flavorful snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, halved and pitted
– 1 cup frozen tomatoes (such as cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes)
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, frozen tomatoes, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if desired.
4. Transfer the guacamole to a serving bowl and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Frozen Tomato and Zucchini Fritters
These crispy fritters are a great way to use up frozen tomatoes and zucchinis, perfect for a quick snack or side dish. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy the flavors of summer all year round.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen tomato dices
– 1/2 cup frozen zucchini dices
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine frozen tomato and zucchini dices.
2. Add flour, egg, salt, and pepper to the bowl; mix until well combined.
3. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the size of fritters)
Enjoy your crispy Frozen Tomato and Zucchini Fritters!
Frozen Tomato and Bacon Jam
Elevate your snacks and meals with this sweet and savory frozen tomato and bacon jam. Perfect for topping crackers, using as a dip, or adding to sandwiches and wraps.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine halved tomatoes, crumbled bacon, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in an even layer.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the mixture is caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
6. Once cooled, transfer the jam to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Herb Focaccia
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing twist on traditional focaccia, featuring the sweetness of frozen tomatoes and a hint of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups warm water
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup frozen chopped tomatoes (such as cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes)
– Fresh herbs (such as basil, oregano, and parsley), chopped
– Garlic powder, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine yeast and warm water; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour; mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add remaining flour, mixing until a sticky ball forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and roll out into a rectangular shape.
7. Top with frozen tomatoes, chopped herbs, and garlic powder; drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto recipe combines the flavors of frozen tomatoes and earthy mushrooms, perfect for a cozy winter evening. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this comforting dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups frozen mixed tomatoes (chopped)
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add white wine (if using); stir until absorbed.
4. Add frozen tomatoes and mushrooms; cook until thawed.
5. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring continuously, until rice is creamy and cooked through.
6. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Goat Cheese Tart
Enjoy a flavorful and refreshing tart that combines the sweetness of frozen tomatoes with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a quick and easy dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup frozen cherry tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Arrange chopped frozen tomatoes over the pastry, leaving some space between each tomato.
5. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese over the tomatoes.
6. Fold the edges of the pastry up to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Cilantro Chutney
This refreshing chutney is perfect for hot summer days when you need a cooling accompaniment to your meals. Made with frozen tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and a hint of spice, this recipe is quick, easy, and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen chopped tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves and stems, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 teaspoons cumin powder
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine frozen tomatoes, cilantro, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the chopped onion and minced garlic in a pan with a little oil over medium heat until softened.
3. Add the blended tomato mixture to the pan and stir well.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and cumin powder (if using).
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to unlock the flavor of frozen tomatoes with these 20 delicious recipes! From spicy salsas and creamy soups, to savory pasta sauces and tangy salads, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy classic combinations like basil pasta sauce or roasted garlic bruschetta, or try your hand at international dishes like lentil curry or Indian-inspired chutney. And for a sweet treat, use frozen tomatoes in a tomato and mozzarella salad or a fresh guacamole. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to delight!
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