Tomatoes are the crown jewel of summer. From slicing them fresh for a sandwich to mixing them into a vibrant salad, they’re a staple of warm-weather meals. But what happens when the tomato season ends? Instead of letting those fresh tomatoes go to waste, you can preserve them in a variety of ways and enjoy their rich flavors year-round. Below, we’ll explore seven tried-and-true methods to help you save your summer harvest.
1. Dry Tomatoes in the Oven
If you’ve ever tasted sun-dried tomatoes, you know how their concentrated sweetness can enhance dishes. Fortunately, you don’t need the sun or a dehydrator to create your own at home. Oven-drying tomatoes is a simple process that results in a rich, tangy flavor.
To start, cut your tomatoes in half and remove the pulp and core. Season them with salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice. Place them directly on an oven rack at 200°F (93°C) for 4 to 6 hours. You’ll know they’re done when the edges shrivel and they’ve lost most of their moisture. Once cooled, store the dried tomatoes in jars covered with olive oil. Properly stored, they can last in the refrigerator for up to two months.
2. Freeze Tomatoes for Later Use
Freezing tomatoes is one of the easiest ways to preserve them without losing much of their fresh flavor. Begin by peeling and quartering the tomatoes. To easily remove the skin, cut a small ‘X’ on the bottom of each tomato, then drop them in boiling water for about 20 seconds. Once removed and cooled, the skins will peel off with ease.
Once peeled, store the tomatoes in quart-sized freezer bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This method is perfect for those who want to portion their tomatoes for soups, sauces, or stews throughout the year. Tomatoes stored in the freezer can last for up to a year.
3. Make Tomato Jam for a Sweet Treat
If you’ve never tried tomato jam, you’re in for a treat. This unique take on jam offers a surprising blend of sweetness and tang that pairs well with bread, cheese, and even roasted meats. To make it, start by peeling your tomatoes using the same method described earlier. Once peeled, cook them down with sugar, lemon juice, and spices such as cinnamon or ginger.
Tomato jam is perfect for those looking to experiment with preserving tomatoes in a less traditional way. Stored in sterilized jars, it can last several months, bringing a taste of summer to your breakfast table long after the season ends.
4. Can Tomatoes for Long-Term Storage
Canning is a classic method that preserves the flavor and texture of tomatoes for months. While it may seem intimidating at first, the process is simple once you get the hang of it.
Start by cutting your tomatoes into cubes and tightly packing them into sterilized jars. Unlike other canning methods, you don’t need to preheat the oven for this one. Place the jars in a cool oven, set it to 275°F (135°C), and leave them for about 75 minutes. As they cool, you’ll hear the satisfying “pop” that signals a proper seal. This method preserves the tomatoes’ freshness, keeping them as firm and flavorful as when they were first canned.
5. Create Crunchy Tomato Chips in a Dehydrator
If you love snacking but want a healthier alternative to potato chips, consider making tomato chips. Using a dehydrator, you can turn fresh tomatoes into a crispy snack packed with flavor.
To make tomato chips, slice the tomatoes thinly and season them with salt and dried basil. Place them in the dehydrator for several hours until crispy. These chips can be stored in an airtight container and will last for months. They’re great for snacking or adding a crunch to salads and soups.
6. Make Your Own Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is a kitchen staple, adding depth and richness to a wide range of dishes, from soups to pasta sauces. Making it at home is a bit more time-consuming than other preservation methods, but the concentrated flavor is worth the effort.
Start by cooking your tomatoes down slowly to evaporate the water. Strain out the seeds and skins, and continue cooking until you have a thick, rich paste. Once it’s ready, store the paste in jars or freeze it in small portions. Homemade tomato paste can last up to nine months in the freezer, and it will give your dishes a flavor boost you can’t get from store-bought versions.
7. Whip Up a Quick Five-Minute Salsa
What’s the best way to use up fresh tomatoes in a flash? Salsa! This simple five-minute salsa is a perfect way to make sure no tomato goes to waste. All you need are tomatoes, onion, cilantro, serrano or jalapeño peppers, lime juice, and salt. Blend everything in a food processor, and you’ll have fresh, homemade salsa in minutes.
Salsa is incredibly versatile and can be used as a dip, a topping for tacos, or a side dish. Best of all, it uses fresh tomatoes, so you can enjoy that garden-fresh flavor even after the harvest season has passed.
Conclusion: Make the Most of Your Tomato Harvest
By using these seven methods, you can enjoy the delicious taste of summer tomatoes long after the season is over. Whether you prefer to dry them, freeze them, or whip up a quick salsa, preserving tomatoes allows you to capture their peak flavor and savor it year-round. Each method offers something unique, from the sweet tang of tomato jam to the bold punch of homemade salsa. So, stock up on those ripe red tomatoes and get ready to preserve their freshness in a way that suits your taste and lifestyle!
