Calories of 1 Tomato: A Nutritious and Low-Calorie Snack Option
If you’re looking for a healthy snack or an ingredient to add to your favorite dish, tomatoes are a great option. Not only are they low in calories, but they’re also packed with nutrients that are essential for good health. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the calories of 1 tomato and explore its nutritional profile, health benefits, and culinary uses.
Tomatoes are a nutrient-dense food that are rich in vitamins and minerals. One small tomato provides 67 calories, 0.8g of protein, 3.5g of carbohydrates, and 0.2g of fat. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and vitamin K, which are important for maintaining a healthy immune system, promoting digestion, and supporting bone health. In addition, tomatoes are also high in antioxidants, such as lycopene, which can help protect your body against chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
Key Takeaways
- Tomatoes are a low-calorie food that are rich in nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and vitamin K.
- They are also high in antioxidants like lycopene, which can help protect against chronic diseases.
- Tomatoes can be used in a variety of culinary dishes and are a versatile ingredient to add to your diet.
Nutritional Profile of a Tomato
When it comes to nutrition, tomatoes are a great source of vitamins and minerals. In this section, we will take a closer look at the nutritional profile of a tomato.
Vitamins and Minerals
Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C, which is important for maintaining a healthy immune system. One small tomato provides about 28% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C. Tomatoes are also a good source of vitamin K, which is important for bone health and blood clotting.
In addition to vitamins, tomatoes are rich in minerals. One small tomato contains about 14% of your daily recommended intake of potassium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure. Tomatoes also contain small amounts of iron, magnesium, and calcium.
Macronutrient Breakdown
While tomatoes are not a significant source of macronutrients, they do contain a small amount of carbohydrates and fiber. One small tomato contains about 3.5 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of fiber. Tomatoes are also very low in calories, with one small tomato containing only about 20 calories.
Overall, tomatoes are a great addition to a healthy and balanced diet. They are low in calories, but high in vitamins and minerals. Whether you enjoy them fresh, cooked, or canned, tomatoes are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that you can incorporate into a variety of dishes.
Caloric Value of a Tomato
If you’re looking for a low-calorie snack, tomatoes are a great option. One medium-sized tomato contains only about 22 calories [1].
Comparison with Other Vegetables
Compared to other vegetables, tomatoes are fairly low in calories. For example, one medium-sized carrot contains about 25 calories, and one medium-sized cucumber contains about 24 calories. However, it’s worth noting that the caloric content of vegetables can vary widely depending on the specific type and how they’re prepared. For example, a cup of mashed sweet potatoes contains around 250 calories, while a cup of raw kale contains only about 33 calories.
Factors Affecting Caloric Content
The caloric content of a tomato can be affected by a number of factors. For example, the ripeness of the tomato can impact its caloric value. A ripe tomato will generally contain more calories than an unripe one. Additionally, the way the tomato is prepared can also impact its caloric content. For example, a cup of tomato sauce can contain significantly more calories than a fresh tomato, due to the added sugar and other ingredients.
Overall, tomatoes are a healthy and low-calorie food that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking to snack on a fresh tomato or use it in a recipe, you can feel good about incorporating this nutritious vegetable into your diet.
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Health Benefits of Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a nutrient-dense fruit that provide a variety of health benefits. In this section, we will explore some of the benefits of consuming tomatoes, including their potential role in weight management and cardiovascular health.
Weight Management
Tomatoes are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to any weight management plan. One medium-sized tomato contains only about 22 calories and 1.5 grams of fiber. The fiber in tomatoes can help you feel full and satisfied, which may prevent overeating and snacking on unhealthy foods.
Cardiovascular Health
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to improved cardiovascular health. Lycopene may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve blood vessel function. Additionally, the potassium in tomatoes may help lower blood pressure, which is a risk factor for heart disease.
In addition to lycopene and potassium, tomatoes are also a good source of vitamin C, which is important for overall immune function and skin health. They also contain vitamin K, which supports bone health, and folate, which is important for fetal development during pregnancy.
Overall, adding tomatoes to your diet is a simple and delicious way to boost your nutrient intake and support your health.
Culinary Uses of Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, including Italian, Mexican, and Indian. Here are some common ways to use tomatoes in your cooking:
Raw Consumption
Tomatoes can be eaten raw as a snack or added to salads for extra flavor and nutrition. They are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Cherry and grape tomatoes are great for snacking, while Roma tomatoes are perfect for salads.
Here’s a quick and easy recipe for a simple tomato salad:
- Slice 2-3 medium tomatoes into wedges
- Add 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste
Cooked Preparations
Tomatoes can also be cooked in a variety of ways, including sautéed, roasted, grilled, and stewed. They add flavor and acidity to dishes and can be used in everything from soups and stews to pasta sauces and curries.
Here are some common ways to cook with tomatoes:
- Sautéed: Heat some olive oil in a pan and add diced tomatoes. Cook over medium heat until the tomatoes soften and release their juices. Add garlic and herbs for extra flavor.
- Roasted: Slice tomatoes in half and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven at 400°F for 20-30 minutes, until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.
- Grilled: Brush whole tomatoes with olive oil and grill over medium-high heat for 5-10 minutes, until they are slightly charred and softened. Serve as a side dish or chop and add to salads.
- Stewed: Add diced tomatoes to soups and stews for extra flavor and nutrition. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the tomatoes break down and thicken the broth.
Overall, tomatoes are a versatile and healthy ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you prefer them raw or cooked, there are plenty of ways to incorporate them into your meals.
Growing and Harvesting Tomatoes
Best Practices
Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in home gardens. They are easy to grow and produce a bountiful harvest. Whether you are growing tomatoes in a garden or in containers, there are a few best practices to follow.
- Choose the right variety: With at least 10,000 different varieties of tomato, there’s plenty to choose from. Consider factors such as size, shape, and flavor when selecting your variety.
- Start from seed or seedlings: You can start your tomatoes from seed indoors or purchase seedlings from a nursery. If you start from seed, sow them at the end of winter and keep them indoors until the weather warms up.
- Provide good soil: Tomatoes need well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Amend your soil with compost before planting.
- Water regularly: Tomatoes need consistent moisture to produce a good crop. Water them deeply once a week or more often during hot, dry weather.
- Feed regularly: Tomatoes are heavy feeders and need regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Harvesting Techniques
Harvesting tomatoes is one of the most rewarding parts of growing them. Here are a few tips to help you harvest your tomatoes at the right time.
- Look for color: Tomatoes should be fully colored and have a smooth, shiny, and firm skin. The color of the tomato depends on the variety, but most will turn red, yellow, or orange when ripe.
- Check for firmness: Ripe tomatoes should be firm but slightly soft to the touch. They should not be mushy or too hard.
- Twist to remove: To harvest your tomatoes, simply twist them off the vine. If they don’t come off easily, they are not ripe yet.
- Store properly: Tomatoes should be stored at room temperature and out of direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate them as this can affect their flavor and texture.
By following these best practices and harvesting techniques, you can grow and harvest delicious tomatoes in your own garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories can be found in a medium-sized raw tomato?
A medium-sized raw tomato contains approximately 22 calories. This calorie count is relatively low, making tomatoes an excellent choice for those aiming to maintain a healthy weight or looking for a low-calorie food to add to their meals. source
What is the calorie count of a large tomato?
The number of calories in a large tomato will vary depending on its size and type. On average, a large tomato contains approximately 33 calories. source
Can you tell me the number of calories in 100 grams of tomatoes?
In 100 grams of raw tomatoes, there are approximately 18 calories. Tomatoes are also an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and vitamin K. source
Are cherry tomatoes low in calories?
Yes, cherry tomatoes are smaller in size compared to a typical medium-sized tomato, and they contain approximately 3 calories per tomato, making them an excellent choice for guilt-free snacking. source
What’s the calorie content of a whole raw tomato?
The calorie content of a whole raw tomato will depend on its size. On average, a whole raw tomato contains approximately 33 calories. source
Is it healthy to eat tomatoes on a daily basis?
Tomatoes are a great source of nutrition and are low in calories, making them a healthy addition to your daily diet. They are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, which can help protect against chronic diseases. Eating tomatoes on a daily basis can provide many health benefits. source
