Buzz
Don't let that tasty goodness go to waste! iStockphoto/ThinkstockWhether you're working with canned tomatoes for a recipe or using fresh ones, you may end up with some extra juice. Instead of throwing it away, the next time you drain a can of tomatoes, save that juice in a container and refrigerate it. The real question isn't 'What can you use it for?' but 'What can't you use it for?' This nutrient-packed juice can be used in countless dishes.
From rice and couscous to short-grain pasta like orzo, adding a bit of tomato juice to the cooking water can enhance the flavor. Mexican rice will particularly benefit from the extra taste. Similarly, you can enrich many soup broths by substituting some water with tomato juice. Even quick dorm meals like ramen noodles will taste better if you mix the water with tomato juice. It can also be incorporated into tomato-based pasta sauces or more elaborate dishes like seafood paella. A splash of tomato broth will add a wonderful depth of flavor to sautéed vegetables as well.
When you drink tomato juice, consider saving the water you use to rinse out the bottle for recycling. You can use this water to add a subtle tomato flavor to your dishes. Tomato juice is also a popular base for cocktails, with the Bloody Mary being the most iconic. For a fun twist, freeze tomato water into ice cubes and serve them at brunch to wow your guests. Lastly, you can dilute the juice and use it to nourish your plants—they'll enjoy the nutrients just as much as you do.
