Tomato paste is canned (usually) and I think that it's a, "wonder food." But other than that, I prefer fresh.
I'm so glad that the garden is coming along. We now have fresh greens, artichokes and asparagus. My porch railings are covered in seedlings that are waiting to go into the ground. Growing your own takes some work, but it is sooooo worth it! If you don't have the space where you live, there's always a community garden tht will lend some space and give advice.
~ C