Freezing Tomatoes to Enjoy the Harvest Year-Round

Looking for ways to preserve your garden harvest? While canning is the most popular, freezing tomatoes is super easy and works just as well! Learn how to do it with these simple tips.

Canning or freezing tomatoes is a great way to preserve your vegetable garden harvest to enjoy all year round. In this post, I’m sharing how to freeze tomatoes so you can do just that!

This year, my raised garden beds in the potager garden produced SO MANY vegetables that I don’t want them to go to waste.

So I’m looking for simple ways to preserve my vegetable garden‘s harvest.

I could try canning the tomatoes but that’s a bit of a process, so I am freezing tomatoes instead. It’s simple to do and can be done in under an hour.

Now, if you don’t have your own vegetable harvest from the garden, you can just as easily drop by your local farmers market when tomatoes are in season to freeze them for future use.

Wait until you see how easy it is to freeze tomatoes!

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Preserving the Harvest: Freezing Tomatoes for Year-Round Enjoyment

As every avid gardener knows, the joy of reaping a bountiful tomato harvest is matched only by the challenge of finding ways to use them all before they start to go bad.

Year after year, we find ourselves faced with the delightful predicament of having more tomatoes than we can possibly eat.

But fear not!

Freezing tomatoes is a fantastic solution that allows us to savor the flavors of summer even in the depths of winter.

In today’s post, we’ll explore how to freeze tomatoes and unleash their potential for countless culinary creations.

The Bountiful Harvest

Whether you cultivate a small balcony garden or tend to an expansive backyard plot, there’s one thing that seems inevitable: an abundance of ripe, juicy tomatoes.

It’s easy to get carried away with planting, only to be overwhelmed when those vibrant red fruits start piling up on the kitchen counter. And then go bad right before your very eyes.

But worry not, for freezing these tomatoes is super easy to do and can help us enjoy their goodness throughout the year.

Why Freeze Tomatoes?

Freezing tomatoes is a simple and efficient way to preserve their freshness and flavor. The process locks in their taste and nutritional value, allowing you to harness the essence of summer even when the cold winds are blowing. Here’s why freezing is a great option:

• Preservation of Nutrients: Freezing is one of the best methods for preserving the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants present in tomatoes.
• Versatility in Cooking: Frozen tomatoes can be used in a wide range of dishes, from soups and sauces to stews and casseroles. They add a burst of flavor and a dash of summer to your winter meals.
• Reduced Food Waste: Instead of watching your hard-earned harvest go to waste, freezing tomatoes ensures that not a single one is lost.

Freezing Tomatoes FAQs

As you embark on your journey to freeze and preserve the vibrant flavors of your tomato harvest, it’s natural to have questions about the process.

I’ve compiled answers to some of the most common inquiries that gardeners and home cooks have when it comes to freezing tomatoes.

Whether you’re wondering about blanching, thawing, storage, or the suitability of different tomato varieties, these answers will help you make the most of your frozen tomato stash.

So let’s dive into these essential insights and tips to ensure your frozen tomatoes remain delicious and versatile throughout the year.

What Is the Best Way to Freeze Fresh Tomatoes?

While you can freeze tomatoes whole, they actually work better if you cut them in half.

There are a few ways to freeze tomatoes.

• Blanch and place in an airtight, food-safe container for freezing.
• Slice tomatoes in half, put on a baking sheet, pop in the freezer for 2 hours then place in freezer-safe bags for long-term freezing.
• Slice tomatoes in half, place in a rigid freezer-safe container, and flash freeze.

Since I typically use my frozen tomatoes for Sunday sauce, salsa for loaded nachos, bruschetta, and creamy balsamic tomato soup, I prefer blanching them.

The consistency is easier to work with after freezing and tastes SO FRESH in dishes during the off-season.

True, the blanching process is a bit more laborious than the other two methods, but to me, it creates a better consistency for use later.

Can You Blanch Tomatoes and Freeze Them?

As we just stated yes.

Blanching tomatoes means they are dropped in a pot of boiling water for a short period of time and then dropped into ice cold water to stop the cooking process.

Can You Freeze Tomatoes Without Cooking Them First?

Yes, you can. As stated above, simply slice them in half then follow either method for freezing.

The flavor is pretty delish and its super easy to use in dishes after freezing.

Is It Best to Blanch Tomatoes Before Freezing?

To me, this is a personal preference. I suggest you try the various methods of freezing tomatoes and see which one you prefer.

Is it Better to Freeze Tomatoes Whole or Chopped?

Both freezing whole tomatoes and freezing chopped tomatoes have their benefits, and the choice ultimately depends on how you plan to use them in the future. Here are the advantages of each method:

Freezing Whole Tomatoes:

Advantages:

• Easier Prep: Freezing whole tomatoes requires minimal preparation. You only need to wash and core them before freezing.
• Versatile: Whole frozen tomatoes can be used in a variety of dishes. They are great for soups, stews, sauces, and can even be roasted or grilled once thawed.
• Retain Texture: Freezing whole tomatoes helps maintain their natural shape and texture. They may be more suitable if you prefer firmer tomatoes in your recipes.

Considerations:

• Thawing Time: Whole tomatoes may take longer to thaw compared to chopped tomatoes, especially if they are larger in size.
• Peeling: If you plan to use the tomatoes for recipes that require peeled tomatoes, you’ll need to remove the skin after thawing.

Freezing Chopped Tomatoes

Advantages:

• Faster Thawing: Chopped tomatoes have more surface area exposed to air, so they generally thaw faster than whole tomatoes.
• Pre-Portioned: By chopping the tomatoes before freezing, you can portion them into smaller quantities. This makes it easier to take out only the amount you need for your recipes.
• Convenient for Certain Dishes: Chopped tomatoes are particularly convenient for recipes that call for diced or crushed tomatoes, such as sauces, salsas, and pasta dishes.

Considerations:

• Texture Changes: Chopped tomatoes may become softer after freezing and thawing, which could be beneficial in recipes where a saucy consistency is desired but might not work as well in dishes where you want distinct tomato pieces.

The Bottom Line

Both whole and chopped tomatoes can be successfully frozen and used in various dishes. If you want versatility and minimal prep, freezing whole tomatoes might be the way to go.

On the other hand, if you prefer faster thawing and easy portioning, chopping the tomatoes before freezing could be more convenient.

Consider how you plan to use the tomatoes in your recipes and choose the method that aligns best with your cooking style and preferences.

Ultimately, whether they are whole or chopped, frozen tomatoes are a fantastic way to savor the flavors of summer all year round.

How to Thaw Frozen Tomatoes

To use tomatoes that were frozen, simply remove them from the freezer and allow them to thaw. And then immediately use them in a recipe of your choosing.

Can I refreeze thawed tomatoes?

It’s recommended not to refreeze thawed tomatoes, as this can further affect their overall quality. So it’s best to use the thawed tomatoes in your recipes as intended. Do not refreeze them.

How to Use Frozen Tomatoes

The frozen tomatoes you’ve diligently preserved can be used in countless recipes. Here are a few ideas:

• Tomato Sauces: Thawed tomatoes can be blended into flavorful pasta sauces, pizza sauces, or even homemade ketchup.
• Soups and Stews: Add frozen tomatoes directly to soups, stews, and chili for a rich and vibrant base.
• Curries and Casseroles: Elevate the taste of curries and casseroles with the bright tanginess of frozen tomatoes.
• Salsas and Dips: Whip up delightful salsas, dips, and spreads using thawed tomatoes for a burst of freshness.

Frozen tomatoes are best used in sauces, salsas, soups, and stews as they can get a little mushy after thawing.

The flavor is still there, but the consistency is a bit softer than prior to freezing them which is why it is best if used in recipes like the above.

Thawing and Storage

To use your frozen tomatoes, simply transfer the desired amount from the freezer to the refrigerator. Let them thaw slowly, allowing the flavor and texture to be retained.

Once thawed, they might release some liquid, so be sure to account for this in your recipes.

Frozen tomatoes can be stored in the freezer for about 8 to 12 months. While they will remain safe to eat beyond this timeframe, the quality might diminish over time.

How to Freeze Fresh Tomatoes

This year, I grew several varieties of tomatoes. From romas and cherries to beefsteaks and patio tomatoes, the harvest was huge this year.

And they are all ready to be harvested but not enough people in my family to eat them all.

I would love to spend a day canning them but don’t have the time to dedicate it this year. So freezing them is the next best thing!

It is ridiculously easy to do and the best part? You’ll be able to enjoy fresh tomatoes from your garden any time of year!

Here’s how to do it!

Supplies Needed for Freezing Tomatoes

Minimal supplies are needed to freeze tomatoes. And you probably have most of it on hand already in your kitchen and vegetable garden.

• stockpot
• sharp knife
• cutting board
• storage containers
• slotted spoon
• ripe tomatoes

Instructions for Freezing Tomatoes

• Select fresh ripe tomatoes.
• Then wash and dry the tomatoes.
• Bring a stockpot of water to a boil.
• Cut out the stem tops. And if there is a bottom, cut that off too.
• Carefully drop the tomatoes in boiling water with a slotted spoon.
• DO NOT COOK! Keep the tomatoes in for about 30-60 seconds tops.
• Remove from boiling water with a slotted spoon.
• Allow tomatoes to cool.
• Peel the skin off.
• Rough chop tomatoes.
• Place in a freezer-friendly storage container.
• If needed, add some of the tomato juices so there isn’t a lot of air in the container. This will help prevent freezer burn. Leave about an inch or so to the top of the container to allow for expansion. Do not overfill.
• Label the container with the date and variety.
• Freeze until you are ready to use them.

Isn’t that so easy? It takes about an hour or so from start to finish. But it is totally worth it to enjoy fresh tomatoes from the garden year-round.

As a dedicated gardener, your tomato harvest doesn’t have to go to waste if you don’t get to eat it all in the moment. Freezing tomatoes is a savvy way to enjoy their deliciousness all year long.

From sauces to soups, their vibrant flavor will transport you back to summer, no matter the season.

Happy Gardening!

More About Freezing Tomatoes

Have you ever frozen tomatoes before? I would love to know more in the comments below.

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My Favorite Fresh Tomatoes Recipes

One of the best parts about growing tomatoes is harvesting and using them in the kitchen.

Wait until you try some of my favorite tomato-based recipes!

• Bruschetta Tomatoes Recipe from Grandma’s Vault
• Simple Salad with Cucumbers, Tomatoes and Onion
• The Best Recipe for Caprese Salad
• Loaded Nachos
• Quick and Easy Spinach Tortellini Soup
• How to Make Sunday Sauce with Meatballs Like a Pro

Garden Supplies I Use

I’m often asked about the garden supplies and tools that I use most. From pruners to deer repellents, here are some of my favorites in no particular order.

• I like to use a good-quality garden soil, compost, and perlite when planting.
• I have used this deer repellent with great success. But now, I’m all about this deer repellent that is systemic instead of topical. This means the plant takes it in as opposed to it just smelling bad.
• Hands down this is my favorite hand-weeding tool. You can use to get underneath roots, loosen soil, and it cuts down on the weeding time because you work much faster.
• But I also love this long, stand-up weeding tool to really get around roses from afar.
• I like to use THIS ORGANIC FERTILIZER for roses because the blooms are more prolific and it’s organic.
• You’ll need a sharp set of pruners when working with plants and flowers. I buy a few so I can stash them around.
• Where pest and disease problems are concerned, I generally use this insecticidal soap or neem oil to help control infestations depending on the issue.
• This is my favorite set-and-forget slow-release fertilizer for houseplants, annuals, and container gardens.
• Whenever I stake my peonies or other plants, I generally use these grow through garden supports because they work really well and keep the blooms upright.

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For years, I’ve been drying flowers for DIY wreaths and arrangements. I especially love to dry hydrangeas using this easy method. And even dried flowers to make this DIY hydrangea wreath.