9 Best Ways To Substitute for Tomato Paste in Lasagna

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure for more information.

If you’re looking for a substitute for tomato paste in your lasagna recipe, we’ve got you covered with these nine delicious options. If you don’t have tomato paste on hand, canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato puree are all excellent alternatives. For every tablespoon of tomato paste, you can use three tablespoons of tomato puree or sauce. If you prefer to use canned tomatoes, for every tablespoon of tomato paste called for, use three tablespoons of the canned juice.

You can also substitute fresh tomatoes by pureeing them until liquified and using three tablespoons of the fresh juice for every tablespoon of tomato paste. In a pinch, ketchup can also be used as a substitute for tomato paste, but be aware that it has a tangier flavor and more sugar.

Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to add a unique twist to your lasagna, try using other ingredients like wine, roasted peppers, or pureed squash as tomato paste substitutes. These alternatives can bring different flavors and profiles to your dish, allowing you to experiment and tailor the taste to your preferences.

Canned Tomatoes, Tomato Sauce, and Tomato Puree

Canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato puree are excellent substitutes for tomato paste in lasagna, providing a similar flavor and texture. If you find yourself without tomato paste, don’t worry. You can easily replace it with these pantry staples.

For every tablespoon of tomato paste called for in your recipe, you can use three tablespoons of tomato puree or sauce. This substitution ratio ensures that you maintain the desired tomato flavor in your lasagna. Both tomato puree and tomato sauce are readily available in most grocery stores and can be found in the canned vegetable or pasta sauce aisle.

If you prefer to use canned tomatoes, you can substitute three tablespoons of the canned juice for every tablespoon of tomato paste. This option allows you to achieve a similar consistency and flavor profile. Make sure to drain the tomatoes before using the juice in your lasagna.

The convenience and versatility of canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato puree make them ideal alternatives to tomato paste. Whether you have these ingredients on hand or need to make a quick trip to the store, you can confidently substitute them in your lasagna recipe without compromising on taste.

Fresh Tomatoes and Ketchup

If you don’t have tomato paste, don’t worry! You can still enjoy a delicious lasagna by using fresh tomatoes or even ketchup as substitutes. Fresh tomatoes can be a great option, especially if you have some ripe ones on hand. Simply puree the tomatoes until they are liquified, and then use three tablespoons of the fresh juice for every tablespoon of tomato paste. This will provide a vibrant and fresh flavor to your lasagna.

In a pinch, ketchup can also be a viable substitute for tomato paste. However, keep in mind that ketchup has a tangier flavor and higher sugar content than tomato paste. So, if you decide to go with ketchup, consider adjusting the other seasonings in your recipe to balance out the flavors. Whether you choose fresh tomatoes or ketchup, both alternatives offer unique and delicious twists to your traditional lasagna dish.

Summary:

• If you don’t have tomato paste, fresh tomatoes and ketchup can be used as substitutes.
• Puree fresh tomatoes and use three tablespoons of the fresh juice for every tablespoon of tomato paste.
• Ketchup can be used in a pinch, but it has a tangier flavor and higher sugar content.

Other Flavorful Alternatives

For those seeking a unique twist on traditional lasagna, you can try using wine, roasted peppers, or pureed squash as substitutes for tomato paste to create a truly memorable dish. These alternatives offer a delicious departure from the classic tomato flavor and add depth and complexity to your lasagna recipe.

If you’re looking to elevate the taste of your lasagna, consider adding a splash of wine. Red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, can bring richness and a subtle fruitiness to the dish. Simply substitute an equal amount of wine for the tomato paste in your recipe and let it simmer to enhance the flavors.

Roasted peppers are another excellent option to replace tomato paste. They provide a smoky and slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients in your lasagna. Puree the roasted peppers and use them in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute for tomato paste. The result will be a lasagna with a unique and vibrant taste.

If you’re in the mood for something different, pureed squash can be a surprising alternative to tomato paste. Choose a variety such as butternut or acorn squash, cook it until soft, and blend it until smooth. Use three tablespoons of the pureed squash for every tablespoon of tomato paste in your recipe. The sweetness and creamy texture of the squash will add a delightful twist to your lasagna.

Source Links

• https://www.foodnetwork.com/how-to/packages/food-network-essentials/tomato-paste-substitute
• https://bakeitwithlove.com/tomato-paste-substitute/
• https://www.acouplecooks.com/best-tomato-paste-substitute/