06/14/2026
If you grow cherry tomatoes (or buy them in bulk), this is the smartest way to preserve them! These simple freezer packets turn into the freshest, most delicious tomato sauce with almost no work. No canning, no long cooking sessions — just toss the frozen packet into a pan when you need it. Brilliant for quick pasta nights!
Ingredients (per packet — makes about 2 cups sauce):
* 2 cups cherry tomatoes (washed)
* 2 cloves garlic, peeled
* 1 sprig fresh basil
* ¼ onion (red or sweet), cut into quarters
Instructions:
1. Wash and dry the cherry tomatoes.
2. Place the tomatoes, garlic cloves, basil sprig, and onion quarter into a FoodSaver bag (or regular freezer bag).
3. Remove as much air as possible (use the FoodSaver or submerge the bag in water to push air out) and seal tightly.
4. Label and lay flat in the freezer.
To Use:
* Heat a little olive oil in a skillet.
* Add the frozen packet contents directly to the pan.
* Cook down until thickened (about the time it takes to boil pasta).
* Season with salt, pepper, and any extra herbs you like.
* For a creamy pink sauce, stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half at the end.
* Blend with an immersion blender or in a regular blender for smoother texture.
Tip: If you don’t have a FoodSaver, use a regular freezer bag and press out air by submerging it in a bowl of water (keep the opening above water).
These packets stay fresh-tasting for months in the freezer and make weeknight dinners feel gourmet. No more wasted tomatoes or store-bought sauce!
— The Tan Recipes
