Tomato
Solanum lycopersicum
Description
Botanically a fruit (berry), but culinarily a vegetable. Thin skin, juicy pulp, and seeds. Key ingredient in salads and sauces.
Benefits
Primary source of lycopene (antioxidant linked to prostate health). Rich in Vitamin C and K.
History and Origins
Tomato originated in the Andes (Peru/Ecuador) and was domesticated in Mexico by Aztecs. Brought to Europe by Spanish explorers, it was initially feared as poisonous before becoming a staple of Italian cuisine.
Fun Facts
Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit; wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad! There are thousands of heirloom varieties in colors from purple to striped green.
What are the varieties of Tomato?
Varieties: Roma (sauce), Cherry (salad), Beefsteak (slicing), and Heirloom types.
Nutritional Values per 100g of Tomato
| Calories | 18 kcal |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 3.9 g |
| Protein | 0.9 g |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Vitamin C | 23 mg |
Harvest Months
Harvest months listed here correspond to the Southern Hemisphere.
