Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes that is commonly used in cooking to add flavor and thickness to soups, stews, and sauces. At 33 calories per 2 tbsp (33 g) serving, it is a relatively low-calorie ingredient that can provide significant nutritional benefits.
In addition to its calorie content, tomato paste is a great source of important nutrients like vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. It is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.
If you are trying to lose weight, adding tomato paste to your diet can be a great way to increase your intake of essential nutrients without adding a lot of calories. Additionally, the fiber in tomato paste can help you feel fuller for longer periods of time, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
Tomato paste caloric value
The caloric value of tomato paste is relatively low, with 33 calories per 2 tbsp (33 g) serving. This makes it a great ingredient for anyone who is watching their calorie intake. Rather than relying on high-calorie ingredients to add flavor to your meals, you can use tomato paste as a healthier alternative.
Nutrient content in tomato paste
Tomato paste is a great source of important nutrients like vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health and can help protect against a variety of chronic diseases. By adding tomato paste to your meals, you can increase your intake of these important nutrients without significantly increasing your calorie intake.
How tomato paste affects weight loss
Tomato paste can be a helpful ingredient for anyone who is trying to lose weight. The fiber in tomato paste can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating. Additionally, the relatively low calorie content of tomato paste makes it a great ingredient for anyone who is watching their calorie intake.
Rich source of antioxidants
Tomato paste is a rich source of antioxidants, which are important nutrients that can help protect the body against damage from free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that can cause cell damage, leading to chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. By adding tomato paste to your meals, you can increase your intake of antioxidants and help protect your body against these types of diseases.
Tomato paste and heart health
Tomato paste can be beneficial for heart health for a number of reasons. First, the antioxidants in tomato paste can help protect against damage from free radicals, which can contribute to heart disease. Additionally, the potassium in tomato paste can help reduce blood pressure, which is an important factor in reducing the risk of heart disease. Finally, the fiber in tomato paste can help reduce cholesterol levels, another important factor in maintaining good heart health.
Tomato paste and cancer prevention
Tomato paste is a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been shown to have anti-cancer properties. By incorporating tomato paste into your meals, you can increase your intake of lycopene and potentially reduce your risk of certain types of cancer.
Gluten-free and vegan-friendly
Tomato paste is naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes. Whether you are following a specific diet or simply looking for healthier ingredients to incorporate into your meals, tomato paste is a great option.
Tomato paste for cooking and sauces
Tomato paste is a staple ingredient in many types of cuisine and can be used in a variety of recipes. It is commonly used to add flavor and thickness to sauces, soups, and stews, but can also be used as a base for marinades and dressings. By experimenting with different recipes and flavor combinations, you can find creative ways to incorporate tomato paste into your meals.
Serving size recommendations
The recommended serving size for tomato paste is 2 tbsp (33 g). This serving contains 33 calories, so it is important to measure carefully to avoid accidentally adding excess calories to your meals. However, because tomato paste is a low-calorie ingredient, it can be used liberally in recipes without significantly increasing the calorie content.
Tomato paste storage
Tomato paste should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator after opening. This will help prevent spoilage and ensure that the tomato paste stays fresh for a longer period of time. Additionally, it is important to check the expiration date on the packaging and discard any tomato paste that has exceeded its use-by date.
Tomato paste is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes to add flavor, texture, and nutritional value.
5 FAQs About Tomato Paste
1. What is tomato paste?
Tomato paste is a concentrated form of tomatoes that has been cooked and reduced to a thick, rich paste. It is often used as a base for sauces, soups, and stews, and can also be used as a flavoring or seasoning in a variety of dishes.
2. How is tomato paste made?
To make tomato paste, fresh tomatoes are first cooked down to remove the excess moisture. The resulting pulp is then pureed and cooked again until it is reduced to a thick, concentrated paste. Some brands may also add salt, sugar, or other seasonings during the cooking process.
3. What are the nutritional benefits of tomato paste?
Tomato paste is a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants. It also contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to lower risk of certain types of cancer and heart disease.
4. How can tomato paste be used?
Tomato paste can be used in a variety of ways, including as a base for sauces, soups, and stews, as a topping for pizza or pasta dishes, or as a seasoning for meat, poultry, or seafood. It can also be used to add flavor and nutrition to smoothies or marinades.
5. How should tomato paste be stored?
Tomato paste should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator after opening to prevent spoilage. It can also be frozen for long-term storage, either in an airtight container or in ice cube trays for easy portioning.