Editor’s note
The following abstract describes a publication that is available for purchase or as a downloadable PDF.

Bethany Bachmann
County Engagement Specialist

Abstract

This handout provides information regarding tomatoes in your diet.

Topics

• Description
• Selecting
• Storing
• Preparing
• Recipe

Pages

• 1

Tomatoes

Description
Tomatoes are in season July-October in Missouri. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins A and C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that may play a role in reducing the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Vitamin C also aids in the body’s healing process. Tomatoes also contain lycopene which aids in protecting the heart and may also help reduce the risk of some forms of cancer.

Selection
A ripe and ready-to-pick tomato on the vine should be firm but have a slight give when it is pressed gently. Avoid those with blemishes or soft spots.

Storing
Tomatoes should be stored at room temperature for a week or longer.

Preparing
Rinse tomatoes gently under cool running water before serving. Tomatoes can be prepared in a variety of ways including eaten fresh, roasted, pureed, or made into salsa or pasta sauce.

Recipe of the Month
Baked Tomatoes

Ingredients

• 2 large tomatoes cut into thick slices
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp pepper 
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• 1-2 Tbsp olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a small bowl, toss cheese with seasonings.
2. Top tomato slices evenly with the cheese mixture and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Bake for 5 to 10 minutes or until the cheese melts and begins to brown.