17 Recipes That Prove Canned Tomatoes Are a Kitchen Essential

What can’t you make with canned tomatoes? They are one of the pantry items we rely on throughout the year, reaching for them when we make all kinds of canned tomato recipes, including classic pasta sauces, rich braises, and vegetarian soups. The process of canning tomatoes preserves the fruits after the harvest, so when the summer tomato bounty is gone, we can keep on cooking with perfect tomatoes. Never think that dishes made with canned tomatoes are less worthy than those made with fresh tomatoes. The tomatoes used for canning are specifically selected because they are dense and flavorful, with a higher flesh-to-juice ratio, giving the cook more substance to add to the pot.  

Most canned tomatoes are a variety of plum tomato—most often Roma and sometimes San Marzano—that were picked at peak ripeness, peeled, and packed in tomato juice. No matter the brand or variety, a basil leaf is often included. Gardeners know that tomatoes and basil thrive when planted next to each other, and the same principle applies in the kitchen; basil's sweet aroma naturally complements tomatoes. 

Sauces and soups are an obvious use for canned tomatoes. In addition to our favorites, we've collected other dishes too, including chili and seafood stew, that use this pantry staple. All are recipes you'll cook regularly.