Tomato Roma: A Culinary Delight
The Tomato Roma, also known as the Plum Tomato, is an elongated variety prized for its meaty texture and intense flavor. It's a popular ingredient in Italian cooking, often used in sauces, soups, and stews. With its low water content and high concentration of solids, the Tomato Roma holds its shape well during cooking, making it ideal for dishes where you want to retain the tomato's form.
Nutritional Powerhouse
Beyond its culinary appeal, the Tomato Roma is a nutritional powerhouse. It's low in calories and fat, while offering a significant amount of essential vitamins and minerals. Here's a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving (1 tomato):
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Calories: 11
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Protein: 0.6 grams
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Fat: 0.1 grams
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Carbohydrates: 2.4 grams
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Fiber: 0.7 grams
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Sugar: 1.6 grams
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Vitamin C: This potent antioxidant helps protect cells from damage and supports immune function.
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Potassium: Electrolyte important for regulating blood pressure and maintaining heart health.
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Lycopene: A powerful antioxidant found in red tomatoes, linked to reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Culinary Versatility
The Tomato Roma's versatility extends beyond sauces and soups. It's a great choice for:
- Grilling: Halved Roma tomatoes can be grilled and topped with fresh herbs and olive oil.
- Salads: Add sliced Roma tomatoes to salads for a burst of color and flavor.
- Sandwiches: Use Roma tomatoes as a flavorful addition to sandwiches and wraps.
- Salsa: Roma tomatoes are ideal for making homemade salsas, bringing a rich and tangy taste.
Health Benefits
In addition to its nutritional value, the Tomato Roma offers potential health benefits:
- Lowering Blood Pressure: The high potassium content in Roma tomatoes can help regulate blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Improving Heart Health: Lycopene has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease by protecting against LDL (bad) cholesterol oxidation.
- Supporting Immune Function: Vitamin C is crucial for immune system function, helping protect the body from infections and diseases.
Conclusion
The Tomato Roma is a flavorful and nutritious ingredient that brings a burst of taste and health benefits to your meals. Its versatility makes it a welcome addition to various dishes, and its nutritional value ensures that it's a healthy choice for your diet. Whether you're enjoying it in a classic Italian sauce or adding it to a salad, the Tomato Roma is a culinary delight that nourishes and satisfies.
How many calories are in Tomato Roma?
Each 1 tomato of Tomato Roma contains 11 calories.
Tomato Roma Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount per 1 tomato (62g) |
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Calories | 11 Calories |
Protein | 0.6g |
Fat | 0.1g |
Saturated Fat | 0g |
Cholesterol | 0mg |
Carbohydrates | 2.4g |
Dietary Fiber | 0.7g |
Sugar | 1.6g |
Sodium | 0.0031mg |
Potassium | 0.1469mg |
Calcium | 0.0062mg |
Iron | 0.0002mg |