If you're looking for a low-calorie addition to your diet, consider 1/2 cup of whole, peeled, canned tomatoes. With only 30 calories per serving, they are a great source of nutrition without breaking the calorie bank.
Not only are canned tomatoes low in calories, but they are also high in important nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and fiber.
In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of incorporating canned tomatoes into your diet and provide tips for choosing the best brands and recipes to try at home.
Calories and Macronutrients in 1/2 Cup Tomato
1/2 cup of whole, peeled, canned tomatoes contains 30 calories, 2g of protein, 6g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber. They are also low in fat and sodium, making them a heart-healthy addition to your diet.
Vitamins and Minerals in 1/2 Cup Tomato
Canned tomatoes are a great source of important vitamins and minerals. 1/2 cup contains 20% of your daily value of vitamin C, 10% of your daily value of vitamin A, and 8% of your daily value of potassium. They also contain small amounts of iron, calcium, and vitamin K.
How to Incorporate Canned Tomatoes into Your Diet
Canned tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Try adding them to homemade pasta sauces, soups, stews, or chilis for a flavorful and nutritious addition. You can also use them as a base for dishes such as shakshuka, Spanish rice, or tomato soup.
Tips for Choosing the Best Canned Tomatoes
When choosing canned tomatoes, look for brands that use simple, wholesome ingredients and avoid those with added sugars or preservatives. Opt for BPA-free cans whenever possible to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, and choose whole, peeled tomatoes rather than diced or crushed to avoid added sodium. Finally, consider choosing organic canned tomatoes to avoid exposure to pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
All About the Nutritional Benefits of Canned Tomatoes
In addition to being low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, canned tomatoes are also a great source of antioxidants such as lycopene. Lycopene has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, certain cancers, and other chronic conditions.
How Canned Tomatoes Can Help Improve Your Health
Incorporating canned tomatoes into your diet can have a number of health benefits. They are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help support healthy digestion and weight management. They are also rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which can help boost your immune system and reduce inflammation throughout the body.
The Role of Tomatoes in a Balanced, Healthy Eating Plan
Tomatoes are a great addition to a healthy and balanced diet. They are low in calories and high in important nutrients, making them a great choice for weight management and overall health. In addition, the antioxidants and other phytochemicals found in tomatoes have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic disease, making them an important part of any healthy eating plan.
Canned Tomatoes vs. Fresh Tomatoes: Which is Better?
While fresh tomatoes are always a great choice, canned tomatoes can be just as nutritious and convenient. In fact, because canned tomatoes are often picked and canned at the peak of ripeness, they may have even more nutrients than fresh tomatoes that have been sitting on a shelf for several days. Additionally, canned tomatoes are available year-round and have a long shelf-life, making them a convenient pantry staple.
Why Canned Tomatoes are a Convenient Pantry Staple
Canned tomatoes are a great pantry staple to have on hand for quick and easy meals. They can be added to a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, chilis, and pasta sauces, and can be easily stored for long periods of time. In addition, canned tomatoes are often more affordable than fresh tomatoes and can be purchased in bulk.
Delicious Recipes Using Canned Tomatoes
Looking for some inspiration for how to use canned tomatoes in your next meal? Check out these delicious and easy recipes:
Canned tomatoes are a great source of nutrition and are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Whether you're making a quick and easy pasta sauce or a hearty stew, canned tomatoes are a great addition to any dish.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About 1/2 Cup Tomato, Whole, Peeled, Canned
What exactly is a half cup of tomato?
A half cup of tomato refers to the amount of tomato produced when you measure raw tomatoes and fill a measuring cup up to the half cup line. For canned tomatoes, this refers to the measurement of the tomatoes once they have been drained and are no longer in their canning liquid.
Are canned tomatoes just as healthy as fresh tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes are often considered more nutritious than canned tomatoes because they contain fewer additives and are less processed. However, canned tomatoes typically have a longer shelf life and can be more convenient to cook with. Additionally, canned tomatoes are often packed with nutrients such as vitamin C and lycopene, which can actually be more easily absorbed by the body when the tomatoes are cooked or canned.
How many calories are in a half cup of tomato?
One half cup of peeled, canned, whole tomatoes contains approximately 30 calories on average.
What are some ways to cook with canned tomatoes?
Canned tomatoes can be used in a wide variety of recipes, from soups and stews to pasta sauces and chili. You can also use canned tomatoes as a base for pizza sauce or to create your own salsa. Canned tomatoes can add flavor, depth and color to many dishes.
Can I substitute canned tomatoes for fresh tomatoes in recipes?
Yes, you can substitute canned tomatoes for fresh tomatoes in many recipes. However, keep in mind that canned tomatoes may have a slightly different taste and texture compared to fresh tomatoes, so the end result may not be exactly the same. Also, some recipes may require adjustments to the cooking time or liquid content when using canned tomatoes instead of fresh.