1/2 cup (125 g) Strained Tomatoes contain just 32 calories. These tomatoes have a smooth, pureed consistency and are perfect for adding to soups, sauces, and other dishes. Strained tomatoes are popular in Mediterranean cuisine and offer several health benefits.

Strained tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a great choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of strained tomatoes, ways to incorporate them into your cooking, and their nutritional profile.

What are Strained Tomatoes?

Strained tomatoes, also known as passata di pomodoro, are made by removing the skin and seeds from ripe, juicy tomatoes and then pureeing the pulp. This process results in a smooth and consistent texture that can easily be added to a variety of dishes such as soups, stews, and sauces. Strained tomatoes are often used in Mediterranean cuisine and are a popular ingredient in Italian pasta dishes and Spanish stews.

Benefits of Strained Tomatoes

Strained tomatoes are not only delicious but also offer several health benefits. Here are some of the key benefits of adding strained tomatoes to your diet:

• Excellent source of vitamins and minerals
• Low in fat and calories
• May improve heart health
• May boost the immune system

The high levels of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes, is the key nutrient that gives strained tomatoes their health-promoting properties.

How to Use Strained Tomatoes?

Strained tomatoes can be used in a variety of dishes to add a rich, tomato flavor. Here are some ways to incorporate them into your cooking:

• Add to soups and stews for a thick and hearty texture
• Use as a base for pasta sauce
• Spread on pizza dough for a flavorful pizza sauce
• Add to casseroles for added flavor and nutrition

The possibilities are endless, and you can experiment with adding strained tomatoes to your favorite dishes to create a delicious and healthy meal.

Strained Tomatoes vs Regular Tomatoes

Strained tomatoes have a smooth, pureed consistency, while regular tomatoes have a firmer texture and often contain seeds and skin. Strained tomatoes are also more concentrated than regular tomatoes, with a richer flavor and thickness that makes them ideal for soups, sauces, and other dishes. Both types of tomatoes are nutritious and offer health benefits, but strained tomatoes are often preferred in Mediterranean cuisine for their unique texture and versatility.

Strained Tomatoes for Cooking

Strained tomatoes are a popular ingredient in many Mediterranean dishes, from Italian pasta sauces to Spanish stews. Their smooth, pureed texture makes them ideal for adding to soups and stews, or as a base for pasta sauce. Strained tomatoes are also a great way to add flavor and nutrition to casseroles, meatloaf, and other savory dishes.

Strained Tomatoes for Pizza Sauce

One popular use for strained tomatoes is as a pizza sauce. The rich, concentrated flavor of strained tomatoes makes them ideal for spreading on pizza dough. Simply mix strained tomatoes with garlic, basil, and other herbs and seasonings to create a delicious and flavorful pizza sauce. Strained tomatoes can also be used as a topping for pizza, adding a burst of tomato flavor to every bite.

Nutritional Profile of Strained Tomatoes

Strained tomatoes are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and folate. They are also low in fat and calories, with just 32 calories per 1/2 cup (125 g) serving. In addition to these nutrients, strained tomatoes are also a good source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help promote heart health and prevent some types of cancer.

Strained Tomatoes as a Source of Lycopene

Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes that may help improve heart health and prevent some types of cancer. Strained tomatoes are a particularly rich source of lycopene, with up to 10 times more lycopene than fresh tomatoes. Adding strained tomatoes to your diet may be a simple way to increase your intake of this important nutrient and support your overall health.

Strained Tomatoes for Heart Health

Lycopene, the key nutrient found in tomatoes, may help promote heart health by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow. Studies have also shown that a diet rich in lycopene may help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. By incorporating strained tomatoes into your diet, you may be able to improve your heart health and protect against cardiovascular disease.

Strained Tomatoes for Immune System

Strained tomatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, which is important for supporting a healthy immune system. Vitamin C helps boost circulation and increases the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infections and promoting overall health. By adding strained tomatoes to your diet, you may be able to boost your immune system and protect against illness and disease.