Storing left over tomato paste /puree

I used to buy the tube-type tomato paste which is so much easier than the tinned variety. I use tomato paste occasionally and about a teaspoon or so since I cook for just three of us.

"When I store it inside the refrigerator, it tends to get mouldy. I avoid freezing it because then I have to defrost the freezer every week, as it ends up getting covered in ice."

I have heard of storing pesto with oil layer on top so I tried it on my tomato paste and it worked!!!. So to store, spoon any leftover tomato paste into a small bottle that is completely dry, Not even a drop of water should be there even on the lid!!. Use a small teaspoon to smooth the top and then add a thin layer of olive oil on top. Put the lid on tight and store in the refrigerator. Make sure the tomato paste stays under the oil.


I use this method for both tomato pastes and purees and homemade pesto.