Did you know ?
- Tomatoes are 94% water by weight.
- They were once sold as ornamental plants in 16th-century Europe.
- Commercial greenhouse tomato cultivation began in the 19th century.
Tomato
The tomato is a juicy, tangy-sweet fruit often treated as a vegetable in cuisines worldwide. Versatile in color and shape — from tiny cherries to large heirlooms — it adds flavor fresh or cooked. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and water, tomatoes boost both nutrition and taste.
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Detailed nutritional values
Section titled “ Detailed nutritional values”Values of a medium tomato (~123 g):
| Calories | 22 kcal |
| Proteins | 1.1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4.8 g |
| of which sugars | 3.2 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Fats | 0.2 g |
Vitamins and minerals
Main vitamins
Main minerals and trace elements
Nutritional values may vary depending on variety, ripeness, and growing conditions.
How to know if a tomato is ripe
Section titled “ How to know if is ripe”
Perfectly ripe
Fully colored, slightly yielding, aromatic, and juicy.
How to recognize this state :
- Even red color all around
- Gentle yield under light pressure
- Sweet, earthy aroma at stem end
- Smooth, glossy skin
- Juicy flesh
Advice for ripe products
Best enjoyed within 1–2 days or refrigerate briefly to maintain quality.
Varieties examples
Section titled “ Varieties examples”Beefsteak
Large, meaty, perfect for slicing.
Roma (Plum)
Dense flesh ideal for sauces and pastes.
Cherry
Small, sweet, great for salads and snacking.
Heirloom
Unique colors and flavors valued by gourmets.
How to choose a tomato
Section titled “ How to choose ”To choose a quality tomato at the supermarket or market :
- Choose firm, plump fruits with smooth skin
- Ensure they feel heavy for their size
- Look for uniform color without green shoulders
- Smell the blossom end for a sweet, earthy aroma
- Avoid cracks, bruises, or signs of decay
How to store a tomato
Section titled “ How to store ”Refrigerate in crisper drawer for up to 5–7 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
How to ripen a tomato
Section titled “ How to ripen ”If you bought an unripe tomato, here's how to speed up the process :
- Place in a paper bag with a ripe banana or apple.
- Store stem side down on a windowsill at room temperature.
- Cover loosely with newspaper to concentrate ethylene gas.
- Keep near other ripe fruits to encourage ripening.
- Maintain humidity by placing a damp cloth nearby.
Health benefits of a tomato
Section titled “ Health benefits of ”- Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health.
- High vitamin C content supports immunity.
- Dietary fiber promotes healthy digestion.
- Potassium helps regulate blood pressure.
- Hydrating (≈94% water), aiding weight management.
Origin of a tomato
Section titled “ Origin of ”Originating in the Andes of South America, wild tomatoes were first domesticated in Mexico. Introduced to Europe in the 16th century, they were initially ornamental before culinary acceptance. Over centuries, tomato cultivation spread globally, adapting to diverse climates.
Regions of origin
- Peru & Ecuador
- Mexico
- Central America
- Mediterranean (Southern Europe)
Cook a tomato according to its ripeness
Section titled “ Cook according to its ripeness”Unripe
- Green tomato curry
- Green tomato risotto
- Green tomato pie
Perfectly ripe
- Tomato bruschetta
- Gazpacho
- Shakshuka
Too ripe
- Homemade tomato sauce
- Tomato bread
- Sun-dried tomato pesto
Frequently asked questions
Section titled “ Frequently asked questions”Warnings and precautions for a tomato
Section titled “ Warnings and precautions for ”- Wash thoroughly to remove pesticide residues.
- Unripe green tomatoes contain solanine; avoid in large amounts.
- Acidity can aggravate GERD or heartburn.
- Nightshade sensitivity may cause allergic reactions.
- Overripe fruits can develop mold and bacteria.
Do not confuse with
Husk-covered and tangy, used in green sauces.
Hollow interior, crisp texture, sweet flavor.
Similar color but sweeter, with firmer flesh.