Cherry Tomatoes: Unveiling the Nutritional Benefits and Culinary Uses
By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Apr 19, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr Rajeev Singh +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr Rajeev Singh
Last updated: Apr 19, 2024Table of Contents
Cherry tomatoes are small and full of colour and flavour, they have gained popularity worldwide concerning culinary usage. They are said to be nutritious and provide potential health benefits. In this article, we will be discussing the history behind the use of cherry tomatoes, their potential benefits, the different varieties available, , and how to use them in making delicious meals. Lastly, we will answer some frequently asked questions regarding this topic.
The story of cherry tomatoes is rather intriguing. They are a blend of wild and tamed tomato types. This section uncovers their origin story and how they became popular over time.
Cherry tomatoes are thought to have evolved from wild currant-type fruits and tamed garden tomatoes. The Aztecs grew several tomato types. The ones we know today were created by British and Israeli scientists in the 1970s. Their homeland is Mexico, and from there, they branched out to Central and Southern America.
Records tell us that the first mention of cherry tomatoes was by Caspar Bauhin in 1623. By no later than 1919, they had won hearts in the US. Today, they are a favourite worldwide and feature in several dishes, right from salads to pasta.
Did you know?
Cherry tomatoes come in an array of varieties. Each one is unique in how it looks and tastes. Here, we will discuss about the most common types, their traits, and the variation in colours and forms.
Heirloom cherry tomatoes are famous for their intense flavour and unusual look. Some of the top picks are as follows.
Hybrid cherry tomatoes are made to mix certain good traits such as better disease resistance or enhanced taste. Here are a few examples.
The range of cherry tomato types spans a rainbow of colours and shapes. You can find them in red, orange, yellow, green, purple, and black hues. Those that are shaped like a plum are referred to as grape tomatoes.
Cherry tomatoes are a powerhouse of nutrients. Let’s learn about their vitamin and mineral content, antioxidant power, and potential health benefits.
Cherry tomatoes provide you with essential vitamins and minerals listed below.
Cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene and beta-carotene. They may help guard against chronic diseases. Lycopene is known to reduce heart disease and cancer risk, and beta-carotene promotes eye health and keep age-related eye problems in check. More long-term human research is needed to prove the benefits of cherry tomatoes in warding off chronic diseases.
Cherry tomatoes are low in calories and fiber-rich. They make a perfect addition to a balanced diet. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free, you can enjoy them.
Consider intercropping your cherry tomatoes with a plant called Sedum alfredii Hance. This special plant can help clean up soil contaminated with cadmium, a harmful heavy metal. By growing cherry tomatoes alongside it, you not only get a healthier garden but also safer and more nutritious tomatoes.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D
Apart from their potential health benefits, cherry tomatoes can jazz up your food. Let’s see how to use them in a variety of dishes, compare them with grape tomatoes, and uncover some yummy recipes.
Cherry tomatoes can be prepared as snacks and salads to hearty pasta and stir-fries. Their small size and big taste make them just right for making any dish.
Raw cherry tomatoes are fresh and juicy with thin skins that burst in your mouth. Cooked cherry tomatoes taste richer and deeper, much like going from a fresh tomato to a tomato sauce.
Following are some recipes that may try.
Cherry and grape tomatoes may look alike, but they are not the same. Cherry tomatoes are rounder with thinner skins making them juicier. Grape tomatoes are oblong with a thicker skin, giving a firm bite and less water content.
Did you know that cherry tomatoes are also known as sainfoin and pearl tomatoes? It’s a lesser-known fact that along with being incredibly nutrient-rich, they contain 1.7 times more ascorbic acid (vitamin C) than ordinary tomatoes.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Getting the best out of your cherry tomatoes begins with buying and storing them right. Here are some handy tips.
Cherry tomatoes are easy to find all year round in most supermarkets. They are usually sold in pint-sized boxes in the fresh produce section. You can also find them at farmer’s markets and special food shops in peak season, boasting a range of heirloom types.
For the best taste, keep your cherry tomatoes at room temp. Storing them in the fridge can make their texture mealy. Lay them in a bowl on your kitchen counter for easy access. They stay fresh for three days if left out. If you need to, you can keep ripe ones in the refrigerator for up to two days but let them come to room temperature before eating.
When buying, look for cherry tomatoes with bright, firm skin that smells fresh. Keep away from those with wrinkled skin, dark spots, and mold. The scent should be nice and remind you of the taste you desire from your tomatoes.
Scientific research suggests that veggies, like cherry tomatoes, can boost immunity. Along with vitamin C, cherry tomatoes are also packed with flavonols like rutin which may help boost immunity by fighting off harmful free radicals in the body.
Dr. Smita barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.
Cherry tomatoes are tiny but versatile. They offer many potential health benefits, spice up your garden, and add colour and flavour to your food. By knowing their history, varieties, and how to grow them, you can enjoy ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes right in your home garden.
Try adding cherry tomatoes to your meals. This lets you taste their different uses and get their potential health benefits.
Also Read: Zinc Rich Fruits: A Comprehensive Nutritional Guide
Cherry tomatoes are great as a snack, in salads, and mixed in dishes like pasta or stir-fries.
No, they are not the same. Cherry tomatoes are rounder and juicier, while grape tomatoes are oblong with a firmer bite due to their thicker skin.
It typically takes between 50 to 65 days from planting until you can pick the first ripe cherry tomato. The exact time depends on the variety and growing conditions.
Cherry tomatoes are rounder, smaller, and juicier with thinner skins, while normal tomatoes (like beefsteak or slicing tomatoes) are larger with thicker skin and suit heartier dishes like sandwiches better.
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