7 Tomato Paste Recipe Ideas for Flavor-Packed Meals and Sauces

Bet you never thought a bit of tomato paste could go such a long way.

Tomato Paste
Photo: Corey Olsen

Long reserved for lasagna and ragù, tomato paste is working its way into kitchens everywhere for meals that go beyond the standard Italian fare. If you're game for trying a recipe that uses tomato paste, we have several easy-to-follow ones to get you started.

Try your hand at making versatile dishes like a fragrant homemade chicken tikka masala, tender mussels and white beans, and more. Pro tip: For bigger flavor (and easier storage), swap those tiny cans of yore for tidy tubes of double-concentrated paste.

01 of 07

Tomato-and-Pepper Aioli

Creative Ways to Use Tomato Paste: Tomato-and-Pepper Aioli
Jen Causey

Would you be interested in upgrading your ketchup? Better yet, are you looking for a dip that goes with much more than just french fries? Start with tomato paste and mayonnaise, then mix in a few more key ingredients. You'll have a tangy sauce that will dramatically improve any veggie or sandwich.

Get the recipe: Tomato-and-Pepper Aioli

02 of 07

Sweet and Spicy Tomato Glaze

Sweet and Spicy Tomato Glaze
Victor Protasio

If you're looking to up your grill game, try using this sweet and spicy tomato glaze (with none other than tomato paste) for an extra kick of flavor. Make a little extra, and you can freeze it for a later meal. Or keep it for one week in the fridge in a tightly sealed container.

Get the recipe: Sweet and Spicy Tomato Glaze

03 of 07

Tomatoey Beans and Mussels

Creative Ways to Use Tomato Paste: Tomatoey Beans and Mussels
Jen Causey

Steamed mussels is one of the easiest dishes you can make that looks like a fancy meal. This version is flavored with tomato paste, garlic, and paprika, and bulked up with creamy cannellini beans. Don't skip the bread here: You'll want to keep dunking it in the tomato paste sauce/broth until the last bite.

Get the recipe: Tomatoey Beans and Mussels

04 of 07

Tomato and Shrimp Bisque With Toast Points

Tomato and Shrimp Bisque With Toast Points
Gentl & Hyers

The addition of shrimp turns this tomato bisque into something special. You can also make this recipe ahead of time; toast the bread and garnish the reheated soup with fresh dill just before serving.

Get the recipe: Tomato and Shrimp Bisque With Toast Points

05 of 07

Quick Chicken Tikka Masala

Quick Chicken Tikka Masala
Jen Causey

Recreate the beloved delivery staple, chicken tikka masala right at home. Make the quick curry paste in a food processor and you're basically there. This is a great starting point for any home cook.

Get the recipe: Quick Chicken Tikka Masala

06 of 07

Braised Fish With Spicy Tomato Sauce

Braised Fish With Spicy Tomato Sauce Recipe
Greg DuPree

This recipe uses a braising method which offers a foolproof method of cooking flaky, moist fish. The use of tomato paste, coriander, cumin, cilantro, and other herbs and spices makes it a flavorful dish that will surely become a family favorite.

Get the recipe: Braised Fish With Spicy Tomato Sauce

07 of 07

Hazelnut Romesco Pasta Salad

Hazelnut Romesco Pasta Salad Recipe
Jennifer Causey

This hazelnut romesco pasta salad is a great twist on the traditional Spanish dish. It goes well with grilled chicken or fish but is hearty enough to stand alone as a complete meal. Nuts add an earthy undertone that compliments the tartness of the tomato paste.

Get the recipe: Hazelnut Romesco Pasta Salad

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