Veggie & Fruit Guide
Veggie & Fruit- Please select from abc list
Tomatoes
Did you know that tomatoes are botanically classified as a fruit, but
they are generally eaten and recognised as a vegetable? Known long ago as
the 'love apple' because of its perceived aphrodisiac powers, it is now
known that the scarlet pigment of the tomato is the all important member of
the carotenoid family – lycopene. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that
seems to reduce levels of cancers in the prostate and the lungs. New
research also shows that lycopene may lower the risk of heart disease and
possibly even osteoporosis.
Interestingly, cooking and processing tomatoes increases the
concentration of lycopene available to the body and a little added fat is
even better as lycopene is not water-soluble. So, when cooking tomatoes, add
a little olive oil, such as for a pasta sauce. When enjoying raw tomatoes,
the riper the better for their lycopene content.
Serving Size
1 medium tomato (80g) or ½ cup
cooked tomato provides 1 serve of vegetables.
Seasonal Availability & Description by Variety
Roma tomatoes
Roma tomatoes are also called plum tomatoes. They are elongated
with smooth red, firm skin. They are ideal for cooking as they adapt
well to heat because of their thick, meaty walls and small seeds.
Availability: All year round
Cherry and Mini Italian tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are small and round with a smooth red, firm skin
while mini Italian tomatoes have are more oval-shape, with a darker
red colour and sweet flavour.
Both varieties are delicious whole or chopped into salads,
pasta sauces and used as a garnish.
Availability: All year round
Sun-dried tomatoes
Sundried tomatoes have been dehydrated but can easily be
rehydrated by leaving them to soak in boiling water.
These tomatoes are excellent toppings for pizzas and can be
used in soups, stews and casseroles.
Availability: All year round
