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Tomatoes

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Photo of three tomatoes on a vine
Photo of a bowl of cherry tomatoes
Photo of several roma tomatoes in outstretched hands
Photo credits (left to right): Photo credits (top to bottom): Geo Darwin via Unsplash; Elaine Casap via Unsplash; Davies Designs via Unsplash

Foods Included

Cherry, Grape, Slicing (hothouse), Heirloom, Green tomato

Description

Tomatoes come in different varities and are most often red. They can be eaten raw or cooked and are used in many dishes, sauces, and soups.

Buy It

  • Look for bright red color and smooth skin.

Store It

  • Store in a cool, dark place, stem-side down.
  • Storing in the refrigerator will change the taste.
  • Ripe tomatoes are good for several days.

Cook It

  • Use a serraded knife to cut; remove the core and stem.
  • Eat raw, baked, broiled, grilled, or sauteed; microwave covered for 3-4 minutes.

Why It's Great

  • Vitamin A keeps our eyes working, our immune system strong, and our cells growing.
  • Vitamin C keeps our immune system strong and helps our bodies heal quickly.
  • Fiber helps with healthy digestion and keeps us feeling full.  Eating enough fiber has been shown to keep our hearts healthy too.
  • Potassium, a type of electrolyte, helps build muscle and keeps your heart healthy.  
  • Lycopene is what gives tomatoes their red color. It keeps our eyes healthy and protects our cells from damage caused by normal body functions and environmental factors.

     

Try It

Microwave Tomato Sauce
37 mins
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Slow Cooker Tomato Sauce
5 hrs 10 mins
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Black Bean, Corn, and Tomato Salad
5 mins
Photo of the prepared recipe
Tomato Pesto
20 mins
Photo of the prepared recipe
Roasted Tomato Soup
1 hr 20 mins
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Whole Wheat Pasta with Diced Tomatoes and Salmon
40 mins
Photo of the prepared recipe

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