Canned tomatoes are a pantry staple that can transform simple ingredients into flavorful, comforting meals. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or a slow-simmered dish, canned tomatoes provide depth and richness. Here are five delicious recipes to make the most of this versatile ingredient.
- Classic Marinara Sauce A homemade marinara sauce is simple yet incredibly rewarding. Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil, add canned tomatoes, season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, and let it simmer until thick. Use it for pasta, pizza, or as a dipping sauce for breadsticks.
- Tomato & White Bean Soup This cozy, nourishing soup is packed with protein and flavor. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery, then add canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, and white beans. Simmer, blend until smooth (or leave chunky for texture), and finish with a drizzle of olive oil.
- Shakshuka (Poached Eggs in Spicy Tomato Sauce) A Middle Eastern favorite, shakshuka features eggs poached in a spiced tomato sauce. Simmer canned tomatoes with garlic, onions, cumin, and paprika, then crack eggs into the sauce and cook until just set. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
- One-Pot Tomato & Rice Pilaf This simple, flavorful side dish pairs well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Sauté onions and garlic, stir in rice, canned tomatoes, and broth, then let it cook until the rice is fluffy and infused with tomato goodness.
- Spicy Tomato & Chickpea Stew A hearty plant-based dish, this stew combines canned tomatoes, chickpeas, bell peppers, and warming spices like cumin and smoked paprika. Serve it over rice or with warm pita bread for a filling, flavorful meal.
With just a can of tomatoes, you can create a variety of delicious dishes that are both easy and satisfying. Keep a few cans in your pantry, and you’ll always have the foundation for a great meal!
