10 Recipes That Start With Canned Tomatoes For Easy, Delicious Meals

How to turn canned tomatoes into dinner.

canned-tomato-realsimple-shrimp-potatoes-recipe-1020din-5b10a37f946c46b88aee7b47dce74276
Photo:

CAITLIN BENSEL

We love fresh tomatoes (who doesn’t?), but the sweetest, juiciest versions are only available during peak summer. When it’s not tomato season, we reach for canned tomatoes, which are preserved at their prime and can be purchased in many forms: whole peeled, diced, and fire-roasted, to name a few.

While you don’t want to make something like a Caprese salad with canned tomatoes, they’re absolutely perfect for sauces, soups, and casseroles. Thanks to canned tomatoes, it doesn’t have to be summer for you to enjoy the sweet, bright acidity of these delicious fruits. Keep reading to discover 10 of our favorite recipes, all of which take advantage of canned tomatoes.

01 of 10

Skillet Polenta in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Skillet Polenta in Creamy Tomato Sauce
CAITLIN BENSEL

This clever recipe calls for a tube of plain polenta, which gets sliced and nestled into an oregano-spiced tomato sauce made with a can of whole peeled tomatoes. Comforting and filling, this dish is a stellar vegetarian main that comes together in less than 30 minutes. A quick pop in the broiler at the end yields a bubbling, golden surface. Yes, please!

02 of 10

One-Pot Italian Sausage-Gnocchi Soup

Gnocchi and sausage soup served in a bowl
Jennifer Causey

A package of pre-made potato gnocchi is this recipe’s secret to a hearty soup with minimal effort. Turkey sausage, onion, and garlic give the soup savory depth, while a combination of chicken stock and canned diced tomatoes make for a delicious broth. Uncomplicated and comforting, this soup is a winner.

03 of 10

Cheesy Baked Beans and Tomatoes

Cheesy Baked Beans and Tomatoes Recipe
Victor Protasio

Two of our pantry staples—a can of whole peeled tomatoes and a can of cannellini beans—are the base of this saucy, cheesy dinner. With a stocked pantry, the only thing you’ll need from the store is some fresh mozzarella to melt on top. Completely vegetarian, this one-skillet meal has a pizza vibe and is best served with a side of crusty bread or toast.

04 of 10

White Bean and Barley Soup with Tomatoes and Greens

White Bean and Barley Soup With Tomatoes and Greens
Con Poulos

This veggie-filled barley soup is proof that sometimes, simple is best. Make a simple broth with vegetable stock and canned tomatoes, then load it up with barley, white beans, and greens for a nourishing, wintry dinner. Finish with olive oil and Parmesan.

05 of 10

Greek-Style Shrimp and Potatoes

October 2020 Recipes: Greek-Style Shrimp and Potatoes
Caitlin Bensel

This one-pot wonder is full of vegetables and shrimp, and is basically a nourishing tomato-based stew. Go for a can of fire-roasted tomatoes to give the dish a sweet smokiness, and for a Greek twist, top each bowl with dill and feta.

06 of 10

Vegan Creamy Tomato Soup

Vegan Creamy Tomato Soup
Greg DuPree

You heard us right: vegan and creamy! This soup’s smooth texture comes from French bread soaked in rice or almond milk, then blended with a tomato-based mixture—no cream involved. Onion, garlic, and oregano flavor the soup beautifully and give it an Italian feel. Drizzle with olive oil before serving for a rich, luscious finish. 

07 of 10

Eggplant-and-Tomato Masala with Chickpeas

eggplant-tomato-masala-1019din
Antonis Achilleos

Inspired by Indian cuisine, this vegetarian dish gets its punchy flavor profile from cumin, mustard, and coriander seeds, as well as a handful of finely chopped fresh cilantro stems. (The stems have all the flavor!)

08 of 10

Italian Baked Eggs

Italian Baked Eggs
Jen Causey

A great option for brunch or dinner, this recipe begins by building a rich base with turkey sausage, onion, garlic, and a can of crushed tomatoes. Crack a few eggs straight into the skillet, bake until set, and you’re good to go! A side of cheesy baguette is an optional (though very welcome) accompaniment. 

09 of 10

Whole-Grain Minestrone with Parmesan Crisps

EXTRA SHARP: Whole-Grain Minestrone With Parmesan Crisps

This veggie-packed minestrone calls for a cup of farro that gets cooked in a tomato-y broth. Spoon some store-bought pesto on each bowl of soup for a hit of brightness, and serve with homemade Parmesan crisps for a cheesy crunch.

10 of 10

Tomato Mushroom Pasta

Top View of Tomato Mushroom Pasta Served in White Bowl with Fork in Food
Antonis Achilleos

Looking for a satisfying vegetarian pasta with a lot of depth? This pasta recipe checks every box. Meaty mushrooms and a can of crushed tomatoes make for a hearty sauce, while fresh herbs and a splash of dry red wine round everything out. Serve with Pecorino Romano or Parmesan to grate on top. 

Was this page helpful?
Related Articles