History- Tomatoes are a member of the nightshade family along with eggplant. Although they are technically a fruit, their tart taste sets them apart, and they are generally prepared like a vegetable. Cooking seems to bring out the underlying sweetness. Tomatoes vary in shape, size, texture, and color to include red, yellow, and green beefsteak, cherry, vine-ripened, plum, pear-shaped, and grape tomatoes. They are wonderfully versatile, and add a terrific zing to any dish.
Health Benefits- Tomatoes contain carotenoids including lycopene, an important antioxidant shown to provide protection against certain types of cancer including prostate cancer and breast cancer. Tomatoes are also a great source of antioxidant vitamins A and C, both of which neutralize free radicals and prevent cholesterol oxidation which can cause it to stick to artery walls and form plaques. Water-soluble vitamin C also supports immune health while fat-soluble beta-carotene is associated with reduced risk of atherosclerosis, diabetes, and colon cancer, and like vitamin C, may be helpful in reducing the severity of asthma and arthritis, as both have anti-inflammatory properties. Tomatoes are also a good source of fiber required for colon health and normal bowel function. They are also a good source of potassium, which normalizes water levels and blood pressure, by allowing for the excretion of excess sodium in the body. Excess sodium causes the body to hold onto excess water in an attempt to equalize the levels of both. This can lead to water retention and bloating. Tomatoes are also a good source of vitamin K which is essential to proteins involved in blood clotting. In addition, vitamin K1 activates osteocalcin, a protein which anchors calcium molecules in bone. Tomatoes also provide a source of B vitamins such as niacin (B3), pyridoxine (B6), and folate. Folate is essential for a healthy heart and normal fetal development during pregnancy. B vitamin are essential to healthy hair, skin and nails, and can lead to dry, brittle nails and hair, as well as a variety of skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and dandruff. B vitamins are also involved in metabolism and in processing fat, protein and carbohydrates from food into energy.
Preparation-
Richly colored tomatoes will contain higher amounts of lycopene, and
will generally have a sweeter taste, but beyond choosing tomatoes
absent of blemishes, cracks, or mold, color and firmness is a matter of
personal preference. Storing at room temperature will assist in the
ripening process. The opposite is also true, that cold storage will
slow the ripening process. Tomatoes generally keep for a week or two
depending of the variety and thes storage method employed. They should
be washed before use. Tomatoes are great on salads and sandwiches,
sautéed with other vegetables, topped with cheese, drizzled with olive
oil, crushed into paste, or cooked into a sauce. Whatever you can think
of for breakfast, lunch or dinner, chances are tomatoes will be a
delicious part of it.
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Tomato