From Garden to Freezer: How to Freeze Cherry Tomatoes Whole

Last updated on April 7th, 2025 at 05:53 pm

Cherry tomatoes fresh from the garden are one of my favorite parts of summer. There's nothing quite like savoring a sun-warmed tomato right off the vine, each bite bursting with flavor. But when your tomato plants start producing more than you can enjoy fresh, freezing them whole is an easy and efficient way to preserve that garden-fresh taste to enjoy all year long.

As a longtime gardener and home cook, I’ve taught myself to preserve food by canning, freeze-drying, dehydrating and freezing. Growing and preserving food on my one-acre homestead. Freezing cherry tomatoes is perfect even for a beginner in food preservation. By freezing them whole, you can keep your tomatoes fresh and flavorful, allowing you to enjoy that homegrown taste in your meals all year round.

frozen whole cherry tomatoes on a dark sheet pan.

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The Benefits of Freezing Cherry Tomatoes Whole

Freezing cherry tomatoes whole is a game-changer for busy home cooks and gardeners alike. Here’s why it’s such a convenient and effective method:

Convenience: Unlike other tomato preservation methods, freezing cherry tomatoes doesn’t require peeling, chopping, or cooking. It's a straightforward process that you can do in minutes.
Versatility: Frozen cherry tomatoes can be added directly to soups, stews, pasta sauces, and more. They cook down beautifully, releasing their natural juices and flavor.
Flavor Preservation: Freezing locks in the fresh, tangy flavor of cherry tomatoes, giving you a burst of summer in your dishes even during the colder months.

Let's Get Started

Gather up your ripe, firm, and unblemished cherry tomatoes for freezing. Avoid using overripe or soft tomatoes, as they won’t hold up well in the freezer.
Rinse your cherry tomatoes under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Lay them out on a clean towel in a single layer to dry. This step prevents them from clumping together once frozen.
Transfer the clean & dry tomatoes on baking sheet and place it in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the tomatoes are frozen solid.
Option 1-Transfer frozen tomatoes to gallon-size freezer bags that are labeled and dated and use within 4 months.
Option 2-Transfer frozen tomatoes to vacuum sealer bags vacuum the air out and seal. Label and date them before putting them in the freezer, use within 9-12 months.

frozen whole cherry tomatoes in a ziploc bag

Optional: Freezing with or Without Stems

You can freeze cherry tomatoes with their stems on or off. It’s a personal preference!

How to Use Frozen Cherry Tomatoes

Frozen cherry tomatoes are incredibly versatile. Here are some tasty ways to incorporate them into your meals:

Soups & Stews: Add frozen cherry tomatoes directly into simmering soups or stews. They will release their juices and add a rich, tomatoey flavor to your dish.
Pasta Sauces: Use frozen tomatoes in pasta sauces by cooking them down until they burst and create a sauce base. Add your favorite herbs and spices for a quick and delicious meal.
Roasting: For a concentrated, caramelized flavor, roast frozen cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Use them to top pasta, bruschetta, or salads.
Quick Sauté: Sauté frozen cherry tomatoes with olive oil, onions, and garlic for a simple side dish or to add to grain bowls.
Freeze-Dried: For a fun snack cut frozen cherry tomatoes in half and season with salt and pepper or your favorite spice blend before freeze drying.

frozen cherry tomatoes on a dark sheet pan

Tips for Best Results

Prevent Freezer Burn: To maintain the quality of your frozen cherry tomatoes, make sure to remove as much air as possible from the storage bags.
Shelf Life: Frozen cherry tomatoes can be stored for up to 12 months. For the best flavor and texture, use them within 6 to 8 months.
Storage Hacks: To save space, lay freezer bags flat until they are frozen solid, then stack them neatly in your freezer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you freeze other types of tomatoes this way?
Yes, you can freeze larger tomatoes using a similar method. However, larger varieties may benefit from being quartered or chopped before freezing.

Do frozen cherry tomatoes taste different when used in recipes?
Frozen cherry tomatoes won’t have the same firm texture as fresh ones, but they still pack a flavorful punch. They work best in cooked dishes rather than salads or raw recipes.

Can you refreeze thawed tomatoes?
It’s best to avoid refreezing thawed tomatoes, as their texture will degrade further. Only thaw the amount you plan to use.

Freezing cherry tomatoes whole is one of the easiest and most effective ways to preserve your summer harvest. With just a little prep work, you can enjoy the taste of fresh, homegrown tomatoes in your meals year-round. Give this method a try and let me know how you use your frozen cherry tomatoes!

What’s your favorite way to cook with frozen cherry tomatoes? Share your tips and recipes in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!