Tomato Paste Trick

Tricks up our sleeve? You know we got that! When we're not scouting the internet for ways to get more protein into our diet (because, you know… girl problems), we're scrolling through tips, hacks, and questionable tutorials—all in the name of helping YOU live your best, most life-hacked life. Basically, call us your Hack Broker. We do the digging, so you don’t have to lift a finger. Now—this Tomato Paste Trick? An absolute win.

The moment we tried it, we had a full-on “Ohhh…. that makes sense” moment. Because honestly, what’s more annoying than cracking open a can of tomato paste for two spoonfuls and then just… abandoning it in the fridge to dry out and die? Like, am we making tomato paste recipes on the daily? No. No, we are not. So we either waste it or guilt-trip myself every time we open the fridge and see its crusty little face staring at us. But THIS trick? It’s not even complicated—so simple it’s almost offensive. But also? Brilliant. It’s a no-messzero-waste“why didn’t we think of this before?” kind of vibe. And now you’ll never handle a can of tomato paste the same way again.

What stands out

Quick, straightforward, mess-free and effortless. Honestly, what’s not to love? This Tomato Paste Trick is one of those things we should’ve been doing all along—but didn’t. Why? Because life is busy, and our brains are juggling like 87 more important things. But let this be your sign: The best hacks are usually the stupidly simple ones. Next time you open a can of tomato paste, use this genius little trick to get every last bit out without the mess. Scoop what you need and then store the rest for later using our tomato paste hack. Bottom line? You’ll never waste tomato paste again. Not on our watch.

How to Prepare

Take a can opener and open the top of the can of tomato paste. Flip it over and open the bottom.

⬇ Remove the metal round from one of the sides, invert it over a bowl, and push down on the second metal round until it comes through the other side. You should be left with a perfectly clean can!

Kitchen tip

Be sure to apply steady, even pressure so that the tomato paste comes out in one smooth motion, rather than splattering.

Tomato Paste Trick Variations and Substitutions

1. Use a smooth-edge can opener that leaves a clean cut to avoid coming into contact with any sharp, jagged edges.
2. If the tomato paste is being stubborn, give the can a gentle squeeze before pushing to break the vacuum seal on the sides.
3. Freeze any leftovers in small portions using our tomato paste hack.

Serve it with

• This Copycat Carbone Spicy Rigatoni makes great use of tomato paste!
• Make this Pasta e Ceci for all the comfort food vibes.
• Our Homemade Ketchup recipe uses a whole can of tomato paste!
• And savory Stuffed Onions feature a tomato paste base.

Questions

Why does opening both ends make it easier to remove?

Tomato paste cans are vacuum sealed, so removing both lids allows the paste to slide out smoothly. This method ensures you get every bit of paste, eliminating waste in the process!

Is it safe to use the lid to push out the paste?

Yes! As with most things in the kitchen, it’s best to handle with care. A smooth-edge can opener can also help to eliminate jagged, sharp edges.

What if the paste doesn’t slide out easily?

The can is vacuum sealed, so gently squeezing the sides before pushing the lid will help it slide more smoothly.

Does this trick work for any other canned goods?

Yes! This method will work with other canned goods similar in texture to tomato paste, such as pumpkin puree and condensed milk.

Can we store leftover tomato paste after using this method?

Yes, our a strong tomato paste hack is a straightforward way to store leftovers in the freezer in single use portions.

Ingredients

Makes 1 servings

• 1 can tomato paste

Equipment

• Can Opener

Method

1. First, take a can opener and open the top of the can of tomato paste. Flip it over and open the bottom
2. Next, remove the metal round from one of the sides, invert it over a bowl, and push down on the second metal round.
3. You should be left with a perfectly clean can! If you love this hack, don't forget to share it and please leave us a review. Enjoy!