The tomato, a mine of benefits

The raw tomato is known for its content of vitamins A and C. It covers 17,5% of the nutritional reference values ​​(NRV). She is rich in minerals and in trace elements. Very light, it contains 15 kcal / 100 g and 95% water.

Our tips for preparing this vitamin-packed ingredient

Crue, the tomato is eaten in salad with olive oil, fresh garlic, basil and a vinaigrette made with lemon juice or balsamic vinegar. Some varieties can be peeled, quartered and marinated. Prefer those from local channels, and with a pronounced color.

To make a gazpacho, immerse your tomatoes in a large volume of boiling water for about 20 seconds. Then immerse them in cold water, drain them, peel them and mix them with herbs and oil.

To make a tomato sauce, sauté tomato pieces with olive oil. Add mushrooms, minced meat and tomato coulis, for example. And simmer over low heat, stirring often.

“Her dress should be smooth, shiny and her skin supple. Alternate the varieties: ribbed, elongated cherries… There are more than 12 varieties! “

Pro tips

Conservation : tomatoes can be stored for 3 or 4 days at room temperature. Leave their peduncle to guarantee their freshness. To make the most of their flavors, do not store them in the refrigerator or at a temperature below 12 ° C: the cold affects their taste.

Pruning: in order to make the tomato appreciated by the youngest or for the realization of certain recipes, it is necessary to remove the skin. Using a paring knife, cut the base of the tomato in a cross shape. Then immerse it in boiling water for a few seconds and strain it. All you have to do is peel it easily with a knife.

Cooking: sauté your tomatoes for 2-3 minutes over high heat to reduce their acidity. In the oven, you can prepare delicious stuffed tomatoes, roasted with herbs or candied for several hours. They are easily integrated into all sauces and side dishes.

Did you know?

The tomato can release more than 400 volatile molecules. Among them, about thirty give it its special taste. Its high season runs from June to September.

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