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July 22, 2009
In Season: Tomatoes
Nutrition Perks: This fruit, which acts like a vegetable, can brag about its long list of nutrients. One cup raw (chopped or sliced) contains 32 calories and 2.2 grams fiber. One cup cooked has 43 calories and 1.7 grams of fiber. Tomatoes are packed with almost a day’s worth of vitamin C, as well as vitamin A, beta-carotene, potassium, vitamin K, manganese, chromium and other minerals.
Cooking tomatoes unleashes lycopene, a potent phytochemical that acts as an antioxidant to ward off some cancers (including prostate cancer). Recent research suggests that lycopene may also benefit bones by reducing fracture risk.
Quick fixes: Pureeing tomatoes alongside cucumbers, bell peppers, and favorite spices to make a fat-free antioxidant-rich chilled summer soup.
Peak: July through September
Posted by Lisa at July 22, 2009 6:30 PM
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