It’s common to only use a portion of canned tomato paste and want to save the rest for later. While an opened can of tomato paste can’t be stored at room temperature indefinitely, there are ways to preserve leftover tomato paste so it doesn’t go to waste.
Can you refrigerate leftover tomato paste?
Yes, you can refrigerate leftover tomato paste from an opened can. This is the easiest way to save unused tomato paste for future use.
Simply transfer any remaining paste from the can into an airtight container. Glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work well. Make sure the container is clean and dry before adding the paste.
Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the paste before sealing the container. This helps prevent a skin from forming on top of the paste.
Store the covered container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Be sure to label the container with the date opened.
The refrigerator will help slow down spoilage and keep the tomato paste fresh. The tomato paste may begin to darken over time but it will still be safe to use within a week.
Tips for storing tomato paste in the fridge
- Choose a container that is just the right size for the amount of leftover paste to minimize air exposure.
- Make sure the container has a tight seal to prevent leaks and preserve freshness.
- Use a clean spoon each time when scooping out needed amounts to avoid contaminating the leftover paste.
- Place the container on a shelf near the front of the fridge where the temperature is cooler.
Can you freeze leftover tomato paste?
Freezing is another excellent way to preserve extra tomato paste from an opened can long-term.
Transfer any unused tomato paste into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1⁄2 inch of headspace at the top. Glass jars, plastic freezer containers, or freezer bags all work well.
Make sure to remove as much air from freezer bags as possible before sealing. You can also wrap the container in plastic wrap before putting on the lid to help prevent freezer burn.
Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 6 months. Frozen tomato paste will last the longest if stored at 0°F or below.
The frozen tomato paste will still be smooth and spreadable when thawed in the refrigerator overnight. Let it come fully to room temperature before using.
Tips for freezing tomato paste
- Break up large amounts of paste into smaller portions so you can thaw only what you need.
- Place containers flat in the freezer to freeze quickly and prevent spills.
- Double wrap glass jars in plastic wrap or place inside a freezer bag to prevent cracking.
- Leave some headspace in containers for expansion and remove as much air as possible before sealing.
How long does leftover tomato paste last in the fridge?
Properly stored, leftover tomato paste will maintain best quality for about 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator.
Keep refrigerated tomato paste in an airtight container and make sure it maintains a temperature of 40°F or below.
Covering the container with plastic wrap before sealing helps prevent discoloration, texture changes, and mold growth.
Refrigerated tomato paste may start to darken and the texture may become slightly runny after a week. It’s best to discard any tomato paste that has been refrigerated for more than 7 days.
Signs tomato paste has gone bad
- Mold growing on the surface
- Changes in color to grey, brown, or green
- Unpleasant sour or bitter smell
- Fermented taste with fizziness
- Watery, viscous texture
As long as it has been stored properly and shows no signs of spoilage, tomato paste that has been refrigerated for less than 7 days is fine to use.
How long does leftover tomato paste last in the freezer?
Tomato paste that has been frozen keeps well for 4 to 6 months.
Frozen tomato paste remains safe indefinitely, but the quality slowly declines over time. It will gradually lose flavor and the texture will become more watery.
To maximize freshness and shelf life, store frozen tomato paste at a constant 0°F or colder. Avoidrepeated thawing and re-freezing.
Properly freeze tomato paste in airtight containers with as much air removed as possible. If stored under optimal conditions, frozen tomato paste can maintain best quality for about 6 months.
Keeping frozen tomato paste at peak quality
- Check containers occasionally for signs of frost or ice crystals, which indicate freezer burn.
- Organize the freezer so older tomato paste gets used first.
- Monitor freezer temperature to ensure it stays at 0°F or below.
- Avoid overloading the freezer which can raise the temperature inside.
Can you store tomato paste cans unopened?
Unopened cans of tomato paste have a very long shelf life and can safely be kept at room temperature in your pantry for a year or longer.
Check the “best by” or “use by” date on the can, and store unopened cans of tomato paste anywhere in a cool, dry place such as a pantry or cupboard.
An unopened can that is within the printed expiration date should still be good quality when used. The tomato paste inside is sterile until you open the can.
Avoid storage areas that get hot, humid, or have temperature extremes. Let cans reach room temperature before opening to prevent condensation.
For optimal flavor and texture, use unopened canned tomato paste within the timeline below:
- Best by 1 year: retains peak quality
- Good for 2 years: slight loss of freshness
- Fine for 3 years: moderate degradation in quality
- Don’t use after 4 years: more significant decline in quality and safety risk
How do you know if opened tomato paste is still good?
Check refrigerated or frozen tomato paste periodically for any signs of spoilage.
Look for:
- Mold growth – any fuzzy spots or film on the surface indicate mold.
- Discoloration – darkened or dull color rather than bright red.
- Separation – watery liquid or a layer of oil on top.
- Off smells – sour, fermented, or rotten odor.
The texture and consistency can also indicate spoiled tomato paste. It may become runny, slimy, or clumpy rather than smoothly spreadable.
If the leftover tomato paste displays any changes in appearance, smell or texture, it’s best to throw it out. When in doubt, don’t taste it.
As long as refrigerated or frozen tomato paste looks and smells normal, it should be safe to use within the recommended storage times of 1 week and 6 months respectively.
How to avoid waste when opening canned tomato paste
- Choose small 6oz cans or tubes of tomato paste when possible.
- Look for recipes that use up a whole can of paste at once.
- Make dishes that freeze well like chili, lasagna, or casseroles.
- Freeze single-use portions of leftover paste in an ice cube tray.
Can you substitute fresh tomatoes for canned tomato paste?
It is possible to make a substitute for canned tomato paste using fresh tomatoes. However, the flavor and consistency won’t be quite the same.
To make tomato paste from fresh tomatoes:
1. Core ripe tomatoes and cut into quarters.
2. Place tomatoes in a large pot and add a small amount of water.
3. Simmer tomatoes over low heat for 30-60 minutes until very soft and broken down.
4. Press tomatoes through a sieve or food mill to remove skins and seeds.
5. Return strained tomato liquid to pot and simmer uncovered for several more hours. Stir frequently and add water as needed to prevent burning.
6. Cook until thickened to a paste-like consistency. Allow to cool completely.
Homemade tomato paste has a fresher flavor, but a looser texture than canned. Adjust recipe liquid to compensate if substituting.
For a smoother consistency, puree the finished homemade tomato paste in a blender before using.
Tips for making tomato paste from fresh tomatoes
- Use plum tomatoes which have less juice and seeds.
- Add a pinch of sugar, salt, oregano, or basil for flavor.
- Simmer in a wide pot over low heat to aid water evaporation.
- Stir frequently and press on large tomato chunks to release more liquid.
What are some ways to use up leftover tomato paste?
Here are some great ways to use up refrigerated or frozen leftover tomato paste:
Add to soups, stews and chilis
Stir a spoonful of tomato paste into any soup, stew or chili to add richness, color and flavor. Tomato paste is great for deepening the savory umami taste.
Make a simple pizza sauce
Mix together tomato paste, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper for an easy homemade pizza sauce.
Use in marinades and dressings
Whisk a few tablespoons of tomato paste into oil and vinegar dressing or marinades for extra flavor and color.
Mix into ground meat
Add some tomato paste to ground beef or turkey before forming burger patties or meatballs to keep the meat moist and juicy.
Make tomato sauce or puree
Thin out tomato paste with water, tomatoes, wine, or seasonings to turn it into a quick tomato sauce or pureed tomatoes.
Create tomato glaze for meatloaf or vegetables
Thin tomato paste with a little water, spread on meatloaf or vegetables, then bake until caramelized into a tasty glaze.
Conclusion
With proper storage in the fridge or freezer, leftover tomato paste from an opened can can easily be preserved for later use. Refrigerate for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 6 months.
Check for signs of spoilage before using, and discard if tomato paste has mold, off smells, or texture changes. Frozen tomato paste will keep longer if sealed airtight at 0°F or below.
Once opened, don’t leave tomato paste cans at room temperature. Refrigerate any unused portion immediately in an airtight container. With a few simple precautions, leftover tomato paste can be saved safely.