Tomatoes (Red Ripe, Cooked)
Tomatoes, when ripe and cooked, are a versatile and nutritious addition to various dishes, enhancing flavors while providing a wealth of essential nutrients. Whether used in sauces, soups, stews, or salads, red ripe cooked tomatoes are not only delicious but also offer numerous health benefits. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, they are a great source of hydration and contribute to your overall well-being. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the nutritional value of red ripe cooked tomatoes.
Nutritional Information for Red Ripe Cooked Tomatoes
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 18.0 kcal |
| Protein | 0.95 g |
| Fat | 0.11 g |
| Saturated Fats | 0.015 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4.01 g |
| Fiber | 0.7 g |
| Sugars | 2.49 g |
| Calcium | 11.0 mg |
| Iron | 0.68 mg |
| Magnesium | 9.0 mg |
| Phosphorus | 28.0 mg |
| Potassium | 218.0 mg |
| Sodium | 11.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.14 mg |
| Copper | 0.075 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.105 mg |
| Selenium | 0.5 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 22.8 mg |
| Thiamin (Vitamin B1) | 0.036 mg |
| Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) | 0.022 mg |
| Niacin (Vitamin B3) | 0.532 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.079 mg |
| Folate (Vitamin B9) | 13.0 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 24.0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 0.56 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0.0 mcg |
Allergen Information
Tomatoes, in their natural form, are not a common allergen. However, individuals who have sensitivities to nightshades (the family of plants tomatoes belong to, including peppers, eggplant, and potatoes) may experience reactions. Symptoms can include digestive issues or skin rashes. If you are sensitive to nightshades or have known tomato allergies, it is advised to avoid consuming tomatoes or consult a healthcare provider before doing so.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegan: Yes
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Yes
- Low-Carb: Yes (with 4.01 g of carbohydrates per 100g)
- Low-Fat: Yes (with only 0.11 g of fat per 100g)
- Dairy-Free: Yes
Tomatoes are a great choice for various dietary preferences, including vegan, gluten-free, and low-fat diets. Their versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of meals from fresh salads to cooked dishes.
Health Benefits and Cooking Tips
Tomatoes are packed with beneficial compounds, including lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to support heart health, reduce the risk of certain cancers, and promote skin health. The cooking process actually increases the bioavailability of lycopene, making cooked tomatoes an even better source of this nutrient. They also offer a significant amount of Vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and supports skin and tissue health.
To maximize their nutritional potential, try incorporating cooked tomatoes into dishes like soups, stews, pasta sauces, and salsas. Pairing them with healthy fats (like olive oil) can further enhance the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients such as Vitamin A and lycopene.
Storage Tip: Fresh, ripe tomatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Cooked tomatoes can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days and also freeze well for long-term storage, making them an excellent ingredient to prepare in bulk and use for future meals.
Conclusion
Red ripe cooked tomatoes are a nutrient-packed, low-calorie food that adds flavor and color to a wide variety of dishes. Rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, they are not only a tasty addition to meals but also a great way to enhance your overall health. From their immune-boosting Vitamin C content to their heart-healthy lycopene, these tomatoes deliver an impressive range of benefits that contribute to a balanced, nourishing diet.
Make sure to explore different ways to include them in your meals, whether by using them fresh, in sauces, or as a cooked ingredient in a hearty dish. Red ripe cooked tomatoes are truly a versatile and healthful staple in the kitchen.
