Corn & Tomato Sauté
- Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium and fiber.
- Tomatoes are also high in lycopene, a phytochemical which works with other nutrients to aid in disease prevention.
- Research suggests that the combination of nutrients in tomatoes may help prevent cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer.
- And although cooked tomatoes have less vitamin C, their lycopene is more available and antioxidant activity is undiminished by cooking.
Try these five easy recipes when tomatoes are at their prime. These recipes showcase all the magnificent aspects of the amazing tomato in its cooked and raw forms:
Corn & Tomato Sauté—This quick sauté makes great use of two summer classics—corn and tomatoes. You can use your favorite herb, or whatever you have on hand, in place of the tarragon.
2 teaspoons canola oil
1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears)
1/2 cup diced shallots
1 pound tomatoes, diced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon or basil
1/4 teaspoon salt
Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add corn and shallots and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Stir in tomatoes, tarragon (or basil) and salt.
Makes 4 servings, about 2/3 cup each.
Per serving: 87 calories; 3 g fat (0 g sat, 2 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 15 g carbohydrate; 3 g protein; 2 g fiber; 159 mg sodium; 422 mg potassium.
Nutrition bonus: Vitamin C (30% daily value), Vitamin A (25% dv).
Tomato Gratin
Tomato Gratin—A gratin is any dish topped with cheese or breadcrumbs mixed with butter, then heated until browned—but it needn’t be heavy. This one has plenty of garden-fresh tomatoes and herbs, a touch of full-flavored cheese and a crispy crumb topping.
Baked Parmesan Tomatoes
Baked Parmesan Tomatoes—A sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil transform tomatoes into the perfect side dish. Or try sandwiching them between slices of your favorite whole-wheat country bread.
Tomato & Green Olive Salsa
Tomato & Green Olive Salsa—Hot pepper relish is the key ingredient in this zesty salsa.
Raw Tomato Sauce
Raw Tomato Sauce—Cook up some pasta while the sauce is standing and dinner is ready in no time. This would also make a tasty bruschetta topping.
By Carolyn Malcoun
When associate editor Carolyn Malcoun came to Vermont to attend New England Culinary Institute, she knew she didn’t want to work in a restaurant but knew that she wanted to do something in the food industry. Luckily she discovered EatingWell, where she’s able to combine her love of food and writing.
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