A Culinary Cornerstone: Tomato Paste
Tomato paste is an indispensable ingredient in many kitchens worldwide. Its thick, rich texture and concentrated flavor make it a versatile culinary tool. Whether you're crafting a classic Italian pasta sauce, simmering a hearty stew, or adding depth to soups and casseroles, tomato paste is your secret weapon for creating flavorful dishes.
Nutrition Powerhouse in a Jar
Beyond its culinary prowess, tomato paste is also a nutritional powerhouse. It's packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. Here's a breakdown of its nutritional content per tablespoon:
- Calories: 13
- Protein: 0.7g
- Fat: 0.1g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.7g
- Sugar: 1.9g
Lycopene: Tomato paste is exceptionally rich in lycopene, a carotenoid antioxidant that has been linked to reduced risks of heart disease, certain types of cancer, and age-related macular degeneration.
Vitamin C: This essential vitamin supports immune function, skin health, and collagen production.
Potassium: Tomato paste provides a significant amount of potassium, an electrolyte that regulates blood pressure and supports nerve and muscle function.
Culinary Applications: A Versatile Ingredient
Tomato paste is a culinary chameleon that can enhance a wide range of dishes. Here are a few ways to incorporate it into your cooking:
- Sauces: Add depth and color to your pasta sauces, marinades, and dips.
- Soups and stews: Simmer tomato paste to intensify the flavor of soups, stews, and chili.
- Casseroles and bakes: Enhance the richness of casseroles, baked dishes, and meatloaves.
- Spreads: Mix tomato paste with herbs, spices, and olive oil to create flavorful dips and spreads.
- Pizza and pasta: Use tomato paste as the base for homemade pizza sauce or as a topping for pasta dishes.
Health Benefits Beyond the Kitchen
In addition to its culinary applications, tomato paste offers several health benefits:
- Heart health: Lycopene has been shown to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Cancer prevention: Studies suggest that lycopene may have anti-cancer properties, particularly against prostate and breast cancer.
- Eye health: The antioxidants in tomato paste support eye health and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
Conclusion
Tomato paste is not just a pantry staple; it's a culinary powerhouse that adds flavor, nutrition, and health benefits to your dishes. Its versatility makes it an essential ingredient for countless recipes, and its health-promoting properties make it a smart choice for conscious cooking. So, next time you reach for tomato paste, savor its rich taste and embrace its hidden health benefits.
How many calories are in Tomato Paste?
Each 1 tbsp of Tomato Paste contains 13 calories.
Tomato Paste Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 tbsp (16g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 13 Calories |
| Protein | 0.7g |
| Fat | 0.1g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.7g |
| Sugar | 1.9g |
| Sodium | 0.0094mg |
| Potassium | 0.1622mg |
| Calcium | 0.0058mg |
| Iron | 0.0005mg |