Did you know that a serving of tomatoes stewed has only 35 calories? If you're watching your weight but want to indulge in a delicious and nutritious meal, tomatoes stewed may just be what you need. In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value of a serving of tomatoes stewed, the best type of tomatoes to use, and how you can prepare this versatile dish.

Tomatoes stewed are a great source of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamins C and K, potassium, and iron. With their low calorie count, they make a perfect addition to any weight loss diet. Tomatoes also contain antioxidants which can help protect your body against cellular damage from free radicals.

If you're looking for a flavorful and easy way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, tomatoes stewed are an excellent choice. Plus, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

The Nutritional Value of a Serving of Tomatoes Stewed

As mentioned earlier, a serving of tomatoes stewed contains just 35 calories. Additionally, it provides 12% of your daily value of vitamin C, 8% of your daily value of vitamin K, 9% of your daily value of potassium, and 5% of your daily value of iron. Tomatoes also contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease. The cooking process used in preparing tomatoes stewed actually increases the bioavailability of lycopene, making it easier for your body to absorb.

How to Prepare Tomatoes Stewed

To prepare tomatoes stewed, you'll need the following ingredients: 1.5 pounds of tomatoes (about 5-6 medium sized tomatoes) 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 small onion, diced 2 cloves of garlic, minced 1 teaspoon dried oregano Salt and pepper to taste Here are the steps to follow: 1. Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat. 2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened. 3. Add the tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. 4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. 5. Cover the pot and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. 6. Once the tomatoes have broken down and the mixture has thickened, it's ready to serve!

The Best Tomatoes Type for Stewing

While you can use any type of tomato to make tomatoes stewed, certain varieties will yield better results. Choose tomatoes that are meaty and less watery, such as Roma, San Marzano, or Plum tomatoes. These types of tomatoes have less juice and a firmer texture, which makes them ideal for cooking down into a thick sauce. They also have a more concentrated flavor which will result in a more flavorful dish.

The History of Tomatoes Stewed

Tomatoes have been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries. In fact, tomatoes were first cultivated in Mexico and were brought to Europe by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. It wasn't until the 18th century that tomatoes became popular in Italy, where they were used in traditional pasta dishes and stews. Today, tomatoes stewed are enjoyed all over the world and have become a classic dish in many households. With their versatility and delicious flavor, it's no wonder why!

The Variations of Tomatoes Stewed Recipe

While the traditional recipe for tomatoes stewed calls for onions, garlic, and oregano, there are many variations you can try to switch things up. Here are a few ideas: - Add in some bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables. - Use fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of oregano. - Make it spicy by adding in some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. - Try using different types of tomatoes, such as cherry tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes.

Benefits of Consuming Tomatoes Stewed

Tomatoes stewed are not only delicious, but they're also packed with health benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should add them to your diet: - They're low in calories and high in nutrients, making them a great addition to any weight loss diet. - They contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can help protect against cancer and heart disease. - Tomatoes are also high in vitamin C, which is important for immune function. - They're a good source of potassium, which can help lower blood pressure.

How Tomatoes Stewed Can Help Manage Weight

If you're trying to lose weight, incorporating tomatoes stewed into your diet can be a great way to stay on track. Because they're low in calories but high in fiber and water content, they can help you feel fuller for longer without adding a lot of extra calories to your diet. Plus, the vitamins and minerals they provide can help support a healthy metabolism. To get the most weight loss benefits from tomatoes stewed, pair them with other healthy foods like lean proteins and whole grains. You can also try swapping out traditional high calorie foods like pasta or rice for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Tomatoes Stewed for a Healthy Heart

Adding tomatoes stewed to your diet can also help promote heart health. The lycopene they contain has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, while the potassium can help lower blood pressure. Plus, the low calorie count means you can enjoy a heart-healthy meal without overloading on calories. To get the most heart health benefits from your tomatoes stewed, go easy on added salt and try pairing them with heart-healthy sources of protein like grilled fish or chicken breast.

Tomatoes Stewed for a Strong Immune System

Tomatoes stewed are also a great way to boost your immune system. Vitamin C, which is abundant in tomatoes, is an important nutrient for immune function. It helps to support the production of white blood cells, which play a key role in fighting off infections. To maximize the immune-boosting benefits of tomatoes stewed, make sure you're also getting enough sleep, managing stress, and staying active. All of these factors play a role in keeping your immune system healthy and strong.

Tomatoes Stewed as a Source of Antioxidants

As mentioned earlier, tomatoes stewed are a great source of antioxidants. These compounds help to protect your body against cellular damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to aging and disease. To get the most antioxidant benefits from tomatoes stewed, opt for tomatoes that are deep red in color. These are generally higher in lycopene and other antioxidants than lighter colored tomatoes.