Fresh Tomato

• Making homemade tomato sauce: Fresh tomatoes are the foundation of delicious, homemade tomato sauces. Roasting or simmering them with herbs like basil and oregano deepens their flavor and creates a rich, satisfying sauce for pasta, pizza, or braised dishes.
• Preparing fresh tomato salads: Sliced or diced fresh tomatoes shine in simple salads. Pairing them with mozzarella and basil for a classic Caprese salad or combining them with cucumbers, onions, and a vinaigrette creates a refreshing and healthy side dish.
• Adding to sandwiches and burgers: Fresh tomato slices add moisture, flavor, and a burst of color to sandwiches and burgers. Choose ripe, firm tomatoes that won't make the bread soggy and complement other fillings.
• Creating flavorful salsas and dips: Diced fresh tomatoes are key ingredients in homemade salsas and dips. Combine them with onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice for a refreshing and spicy accompaniment to tortilla chips, grilled meats, or tacos.
• Roasting for concentrated flavor: Roasting fresh tomatoes at a low temperature intensifies their sweetness and creates a wonderfully concentrated flavor. Roasted tomatoes can be used in sauces, soups, or as a flavorful topping for bruschetta or crostini.
• Grilling for a smoky taste: Grilled tomato halves or slices offer a unique smoky flavor that enhances their sweetness. Brush them with olive oil and grill them until slightly charred for a delicious addition to salads, sandwiches, or vegetable skewers.

• Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, potentially reducing the risk of certain cancers.
• Excellent source of Vitamin C, boosting the immune system and promoting skin health.
• Provides dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
• Contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health.
• Low in calories and fat, making it a healthy addition to weight management diets.
• Source of Vitamin A, important for vision and immune function.

Fresh tomatoes are best stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, to maintain their flavor and texture. Avoid refrigerating them unless they are overripe, as cold temperatures can negatively impact their taste and cause them to become mealy. Ripe tomatoes should be used within a few days. If you have a large quantity of ripe tomatoes, consider freezing them: core, cut an 'X' on the bottom of each, blanch briefly in boiling water (30-60 seconds), then transfer to an ice bath. The skins will slip off easily. Freeze the tomatoes whole or chopped in freezer bags or containers.