All About Tomatoes

Varieties in endless colors and patterns of tomatoes add instant visual appeal to your summer salads, sandwiches and any dishes you dream up. Discover the health benefits of this versatile fruit.

August 21, 2015 Clean Eating

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One bite of a flavorless, mealy tomato in January is enough to tell you that keeping it seasonal is best. Flavor also diminishes during long transit times, so buy from a farmers’ market whenever possible – or grow your own! Varieties in endless colors and patterns add instant visual appeal to your summer salads, sandwiches and any dishes you dream up.

Peak Season: June to August

How to select: Choose local, just-picked tomatoes for best flavor and texture. Look for smooth, unblemished skin that is just slightly firm.

 Price: $2 to $6 per pound, with heirloom varieties on the high end

Keep it fresh: Keep at room temperature away from direct sun and eat ASAP. Never refrigerate tomatoes – it makes the texture mushy.

 Pairs well with: Eggplant, garlic, onions, peaches, chile peppers, sea salt, cannellini beans, basil

Creative uses: Salads like Caprese, Greek or panzanella showcase peak-season flavor. Make a super-fresh pasta sauce by quickly sautéing chopped tomatoes and garlic in olive oil on medium heat.

 Nutrition highlights: Packed with vitamin C and beta-carotene, tomatoes also contain a wide array of phytonutrients, such as quercetin, ferulic acid, and lycopene, which work to reduce the effect of free radicals on organs and cells.