When it comes to cooking with frozen tomatoes, many of us think of soups and sauces – but there’s so much more you can do! From savory pasta dishes to sweet and tangy salads, the possibilities are endless. And the best part? These recipes are quick, easy, and perfect for busy cooks on-the-go.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 delicious and creative ways to use frozen tomatoes in your cooking. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a show-stopping brunch recipe, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste. So grab a bag of frozen tomatoes and let’s get started!
Frozen Tomato Basil Soup
Beat the heat with this refreshing and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is also great for meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen chopped tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine frozen tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil. Blend until smooth.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. If desired, stir in heavy cream for an creamy twist.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Creamy Frozen Tomato Pasta Sauce
Transform your pasta dishes with this rich and creamy frozen tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a make-ahead option for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your blender or food processor to high speed.
2. Add the cooked tomatoes, heavy cream, olive oil, garlic, and basil to the blender.
3. Blend on high until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the sauce into an airtight container or freezer bag, labeling it for future use.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in seconds!)
Tips:
– Freeze for up to 3 months or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
– Use as a base and add your favorite pasta shapes, herbs, and spices.
– Reheat frozen sauce by blending again with a little water or microwaving for 30-45 seconds.
Frozen Tomato and Mozzarella Galette
This sweet and savory galette is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. The combination of frozen tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and flaky crust is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen cherry tomatoes, thawed
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 tbsp 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 the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange the sliced mozzarella cheese on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Top the mozzarella with the thawed cherry tomatoes.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the crust with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Tomato Gazpacho
This chilled soup is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer year-round. Made with frozen tomatoes, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be served as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen chopped tomatoes
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine frozen tomatoes, red bell pepper, cucumber, onion, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with vinegar if desired.
5. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This soup is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Slow-Cooked Frozen Tomato Risotto
Transform frozen tomatoes into a creamy, comforting risotto with minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal without much fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups frozen chopped tomatoes (with no added salt)
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a slow cooker.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the frozen tomatoes, warmed broth, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Frozen Tomato and Garlic Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing take on classic bruschetta, featuring frozen tomatoes and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of bread (preferably baguette or ciabatta)
– 1 pint of frozen cherry tomatoes, thawed
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice bread into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
3. Place bread slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic and olive oil. Brush the mixture onto toasted bread slices.
5. Top each bread slice with a spoonful of thawed cherry tomatoes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Tomato Shakshuka
Brighten up a chilly winter morning with this vibrant and flavorful shakshuka, bursting with frozen tomatoes’ sweetness. This recipe is perfect for a cozy brunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 2-3 frozen tomatoes (thawed), chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 eggs
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the canned and frozen tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Create 4 wells in the tomato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny.
7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Spinach Quiche
This quiche recipe is a great way to use up frozen tomatoes and spinach, perfect for a cozy winter evening. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the creamy eggs and cheese, makes for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups frozen chopped tomatoes
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Add shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese to the egg mixture; stir until combined.
5. Arrange frozen tomatoes and spinach leaves evenly over the pie crust.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Red Pepper Soup
This vibrant soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, made with just a few simple ingredients and a touch of cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen tomatoes (such as cherry or grape)
– 1 cup frozen red peppers
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the frozen tomatoes and red peppers, and cook until thawed and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in the heavy cream to add richness and creaminess.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Olive Tapenade
This recipe combines the sweetness of frozen tomatoes with the savory flavor of olives to create a delicious and easy-to-make tapenade. Perfect as an appetizer or spread for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen chopped tomatoes
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine frozen tomatoes, chopped olives, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. With the blender running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top.
4. Continue blending until the tapenade reaches your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Avocado Salad
Beat the heat with this innovative and delicious salad that combines the sweetness of frozen tomatoes and creamy avocado. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen cherry tomatoes
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Thaw the frozen tomatoes by leaving them at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine the thawed tomatoes, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
3. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Frozen Tomato and Chickpea Curry
A warm and comforting vegetarian curry that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) frozen tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Water, as needed
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, sauté the onions and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the frozen tomatoes, chickpeas, coconut milk, and water (if needed). Stir well.
4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Corn Chowder
This creamy chowder is the perfect remedy for a chilly day. With the sweetness of corn and tomatoes, it’s a delicious way to warm up.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, frozen corn kernels, and broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to give the soup a creamy texture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Ricotta Tart
This sweet and savory tart is perfect for using up frozen tomatoes and ricotta cheese. The result is a unique and flavorful dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen diced tomatoes, thawed
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sugar, flour, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the thawed tomatoes and melted butter to the ricotta mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Pour the tomato-ricotta mixture into the pie crust.
6. Brush the edges of the crust with the beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Herb Focaccia
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing twist on classic focaccia. This recipe combines the sweetness of frozen tomatoes, savory herbs, and a hint of garlic for a flavorful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen cherry tomatoes, thawed
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add olive oil, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well.
4. Gradually add flour, stirring until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
6. Roll out the dough into a rectangle shape.
7. Top with frozen tomatoes, parsley, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect solution for a chilly day, packed with protein-rich lentils, sweet frozen tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Enjoy a comforting and nutritious meal in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups frozen chopped tomatoes
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and frozen tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Goat Cheese Pizza
Transform your pizza game with this unique combination of flavors! This recipe combines the sweetness of frozen tomatoes with the tanginess of goat cheese, all on a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup of frozen tomato cubes
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 8 ounces of goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.
3. Spread the olive oil evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with frozen tomato cubes, spreading them out in an even layer.
5. Sprinkle crumbled goat cheese and chopped basil over the tomatoes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Frozen Tomato and Caramelized Onion Jam
A sweet and tangy jam that’s perfect as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen tomatoes (such as cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes)
– 1 large onion, caramelized
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine frozen tomatoes and caramelized onions. Blend until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine blended mixture, sugar, lemon juice, and honey. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let jam cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and syrupy.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your frozen tomatoes! This collection of 18 recipes showcases the versatility of frozen tomatoes, from soups and sauces to salads and baked goods. Try making creamy pasta sauce, gazpacho, or a tomato and mozzarella galette for a quick weeknight dinner. Or, use frozen tomatoes as a shortcut in more complex dishes like risotto, quiche, or curry. These recipes are perfect for busy cooks who want to make the most of their time in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a healthier twist on classic dishes, there’s something for everyone.
