Freeze Leftover Tomato Paste in Tablespoon Dollops

The Problem

A recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. The rest of the can sits in the fridge and grows mold.

The Hack

Scoop remaining tomato paste onto parchment paper in 1-tablespoon dollops. Freeze until solid (1-2 hours). Transfer frozen dollops to a freezer bag.

Why It Works

Pre-portioned frozen dollops thaw in seconds when added to a hot pan. You always have the exact amount you need without waste or measuring.

Pro Tips

• Each dollop is exactly 1 tablespoon — no measuring needed later
• Frozen tomato paste dollops last 3-4 months
• Drop a frozen dollop straight into soups, sauces, and stews
• Also works for pesto, chipotle peppers in adobo, and curry paste