Did you know that 1/2 cup (122 g) of fire roasted whole tomatoes contains only 25 calories? Not only that, but they're also packed with nutrients beneficial for improving your overall health. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about fire roasted whole tomatoes and why they should be a staple in your diet.
Aside from being low in calories, fire roasted whole tomatoes are also rich in antioxidants such as lycopene, which can help lower the risk of chronic diseases. In addition, they're a great source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.
But that's not all - the roasting process of these tomatoes actually helps preserve their nutrients, making them an even better and healthier option. Let's dive deeper into the benefits of fire roasted whole tomatoes.
Calories and Serving Size
As mentioned earlier, 1/2 cup (122 g) of fire roasted whole tomatoes contains only 25 calories. This makes it an excellent option for those trying to watch their weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, this serving size provides 1 gram of protein, 6 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of fiber.
Rich in Antioxidants
Fire roasted whole tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants, particularly lycopene. Lycopene is known to protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. In fact, studies have shown that a diet high in lycopene-rich foods can lower the risk of prostate cancer in men.
Low in Calories
We've already established that fire roasted whole tomatoes are low in calories, but it's worth mentioning again. This makes them an ideal option for those trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. You can enjoy these tomatoes as a snack or add them to your favorite recipes without worrying about the caloric impact.
Vitamins and Minerals
In addition to being low in calories and rich in antioxidants, fire roasted whole tomatoes also pack a punch when it comes to vitamins and minerals. They contain vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and magnesium, all of which are important for maintaining a healthy body. Incorporating fire roasted whole tomatoes into your diet is an easy way to meet your daily recommended intake of these essential nutrients.
Can Improve Heart Health
Due to their high antioxidant content, fire roasted whole tomatoes can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. This is especially beneficial for heart health, as it can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. Incorporating fire roasted whole tomatoes into your diet is a simple and delicious way to support a healthy heart.
Versatile Ingredient
Fire roasted whole tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. They're a great addition to soups, stews, and chili, or can be blended into a flavorful tomato sauce. You can even use them as a substitute for fresh tomatoes in your favorite recipes.
Easy to Add to Any Meal
Fire roasted whole tomatoes are incredibly easy to add to any meal. Simply open a can and add them to your favorite dishes. They're a convenient option for quick and easy meal prep, and can even be eaten straight out of the can as a healthy snack.
Roasting Process Preserves Nutrients
One of the unique benefits of fire roasted whole tomatoes is that the roasting process actually helps preserve their nutrients. This is because the high heat used during roasting helps break down the cell walls of the tomatoes, making it easier for your body to absorb their nutrients. So, not only do they taste delicious, but they're also incredibly beneficial for your health.
Convenient Canned Option
Fire roasted whole tomatoes come in a convenient canned option, making them an easy and accessible ingredient for any recipe. They're also affordable and have a long shelf life, making them a great pantry staple for quick and easy meal prep. It's always a good idea to have a few cans of fire roasted whole tomatoes on hand for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and healthy meal.
Great Addition to a Healthy Diet
Overall, fire roasted whole tomatoes are an excellent addition to a healthy diet. They're nutrient-dense, rich in antioxidants, and can improve heart health. Incorporating them into your meals is an easy way to boost your overall health and wellbeing.
Eat food, not too much, mostly plants. - Michael Pollan
Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Roasted Whole Tomatoes
1. Are fire roasted whole tomatoes healthier than regular canned tomatoes?
Fire roasted whole tomatoes are not necessarily healthier than regular canned tomatoes. However, fire roasting can add a smoky flavor that some people find more appealing. Additionally, some studies suggest that certain nutrients may be more easily absorbed from cooked tomatoes than from raw tomatoes.
2. Can I use fire roasted whole tomatoes in any recipe that calls for canned tomatoes?
Yes, you can substitute fire roasted whole tomatoes for regular canned tomatoes in any recipe. However, the smoky flavor of the fire roasted tomatoes may change the taste of the dish slightly. If you don't want the smoky flavor, you can rinse the tomatoes before using them.
3. How are fire roasted whole tomatoes made?
Fire roasted whole tomatoes are made by charring whole tomatoes over an open flame or under a broiler until their skins blister and blacken. After that, the tomatoes are cooled, peeled, and canned. The fire roasting process adds a smoky flavor to the tomatoes.
4. What dishes can I make using fire roasted whole tomatoes?
Fire roasted whole tomatoes can be used in any recipe that calls for canned tomatoes. They are particularly delicious in soups, stews, chili, and sauces. You can also use them to make salsa or as a topping for pizza.
5. Are fire roasted whole tomatoes more expensive than regular canned tomatoes?
Fire roasted whole tomatoes are generally more expensive than regular canned tomatoes. This is because the fire roasting process adds an extra step to the production process. However, the price difference is usually not significant, and many people find that the smoky flavor is worth the extra cost.