Are you a fan of cherry tomatoes? These tiny red, yellow, and green fruits are bursting with flavor and make a perfect snack or addition to salads, pastas, and sauces.
But have you ever wondered about the calories in cherry tomatoes? Do they make a healthy addition to your diet, or should you be watching your intake?
In this article, I’ll share the nutritional benefits of cherry tomatoes and reveal their calorie count. I’ll also share some tasty recipes and tips for incorporating cherry tomatoes into your diet.
Are Cherry Tomatoes Healthy?
Yes, cherry tomatoes are considered to be healthy. They are low in calories and high in nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium and fiber.
The high levels of antioxidants, especially lycopene, in cherry tomatoes may also help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
Additionally, the fiber content of cherry tomatoes may help to regulate digestion and promote feelings of fullness, making them a great option for those looking to manage their weight.
So, if you are looking for a healthy snack or a tasty addition to your meals, cherry tomatoes are definitely worth adding to your shopping list.
Health Benefits of Cherry Tomatoes:
- Rich in Nutrients: Cherry tomatoes are a great source of nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, potassium, and fiber, which are essential for maintaining good health.
- Low in Calories: With only 27 calories per cup, cherry tomatoes are a great snack option for those looking to manage their weight.
- High in Antioxidants: Cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, particularly lycopene, which may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
- Promote Digestive Health: The fiber content of cherry tomatoes may help to regulate digestion and promote bowel regularity.
- Boost Immunity: The high levels of vitamin C in cherry tomatoes may help to boost the immune system and protect against infections.
- Reduce Inflammation: Cherry tomatoes contain anti-inflammatory compounds such as beta-carotene and quercetin, which may help to reduce inflammation in the body.
- Support Eye Health: The vitamin A content in cherry tomatoes may help to support eye health and prevent age-related macular degeneration.
- Improve Heart Health: The potassium content in cherry tomatoes may help to lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
Overall, adding cherry tomatoes to your diet may provide numerous health benefits and contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
How Many Calories in Cherry Tomatoes
Now, let’s get to the nitty-gritty: how many calories are in cherry tomatoes?
The answer may surprise you! One cup of cherry tomatoes contains only 27 calories, which is significantly less than many other snack options.
For example, one medium-sized bag of potato chips can contain up to 160 calories, while a medium-sized chocolate bar can contain up to 250 calories.
Choosing cherry tomatoes as a snack or adding them to your meals can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your overall calorie intake.
Nutritional Information of Cherry Tomatoes:
- Serving size: 1 cup (149 g)
- Calories: 27
- Total Fat: 0.3 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 9 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Dietary Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Vitamin A: 18% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 36% of the DV
- Vitamin K: 14% of the DV
- Potassium: 8% of the DV
- Folate: 5% of the DV
- Lycopene: 5 mg (amount may vary depending on ripeness)
Note: Percent Daily Values (DV) are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Are Cherry Tomatoes Good for Weight Loss?
Yes, cherry tomatoes can be a great addition to a weight loss diet. They are low in calories, with only 27 calories per cup, and high in fiber, which can help to promote feelings of fullness and prevent overeating.
Additionally, the fiber content in cherry tomatoes can help to regulate digestion and promote bowel regularity, which is important for maintaining a healthy weight.
Cherry tomatoes are also rich in nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium, which can help to support a healthy metabolism and promote weight loss.
They are also a great snack option for those looking to satisfy their hunger without consuming too many calories.
Incorporating cherry tomatoes into your meals and snacks can help to add flavor and nutrients while keeping your calorie intake in check. However, it is important to keep in mind that weight loss is ultimately achieved through a combination of a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Incorporating Cherry Tomatoes into Your Diet
Now that you know the nutritional benefits and calorie count of cherry tomatoes, you may be wondering how to incorporate them into your diet. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Snack on cherry tomatoes: Simply rinse a handful of cherry tomatoes and enjoy them as a healthy snack. You can also dip them in hummus or tzatziki for added flavor.
- Add them to salads: Cherry tomatoes are a great addition to any salad. Try adding them to a Greek salad or a caprese salad for a burst of flavor.
- Use them in sauces: Cherry tomatoes make a delicious addition to pasta sauces. Simply sauté them with garlic and olive oil for a quick and easy sauce.
- Roast them: Roasting cherry tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor to any dish. Simply toss them with olive oil and roast them in the oven for 20-30 minutes.
The Different Types of Cherry Tomatoes:
Cherry tomatoes come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, each with its own unique flavor profile. Here are some of the most common types of cherry tomatoes:
- Red Cherry Tomatoes: This is the most common variety of cherry tomatoes, with a round shape and bright red color. They are sweet and juicy, making them a great addition to salads, pasta dishes, or as a snack.
- Yellow Cherry Tomatoes: Yellow cherry tomatoes have a slightly sweeter and less acidic taste compared to red cherry tomatoes. They are also slightly larger in size and have a more oval shape.
- Grape Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes are elongated and have a firmer texture compared to round cherry tomatoes. They are slightly sweeter and less acidic than cherry tomatoes, and are great for roasting, grilling, or snacking.
- Cherry Plum Tomatoes: Also known as pomodorini, these cherry tomatoes have a plum-like shape and are slightly larger than other cherry tomato varieties. They have a sweet and tangy flavor, making them a great addition to pasta sauces or as a side dish.
- Black Cherry Tomatoes: This variety has a unique deep purple or black color and a sweet, smoky flavor. They are great for adding a pop of color to salads or as a snack.
- Green Cherry Tomatoes: Green cherry tomatoes have a tangy and slightly tart taste, and are great for pickling or frying.
No matter which type of cherry tomato you choose, they are all packed with nutrients and flavor, making them a great addition to any dish.
How do Cherry Tomatoes Compare to Other Tomatoes?
Cherry tomatoes are a type of small tomato that are often compared to other varieties of tomatoes. Here are some ways that cherry tomatoes compare to other types of tomatoes:
- Size: Cherry tomatoes are much smaller than other tomato varieties, such as beefsteak or roma tomatoes. This makes them a great option for snacking, salads, and other dishes where a small size is desirable.
- Flavor: Cherry tomatoes have a sweet, fruity flavor that is often more pronounced than other tomato varieties. They are often used for adding a burst of flavor to dishes.
- Nutritional Value: Cherry tomatoes are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, much like other tomato varieties. However, due to their smaller size, they may contain less of these nutrients per serving.
- Cooking: Cherry tomatoes are great for quick cooking methods, such as roasting or grilling, due to their small size. Other tomato varieties, such as beefsteak or roma tomatoes, may be better suited for longer cooking times or canning.
- Availability: Cherry tomatoes are often available year-round, whereas other tomato varieties may only be available seasonally.
Overall, cherry tomatoes are a unique and flavorful addition to any meal, and can be used in a variety of dishes. While they may differ in size, flavor, and cooking methods compared to other tomato varieties, they are still packed with nutrients and can be a great addition to a healthy diet.
Low Calorie Cherry Tomato Recipes
These reader favorite cherry tomato recipes are 5 star recipes, and so easy to make!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
One cherry tomato typically contains about 3-5 calories.
Yes, cherry tomatoes are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to a weight loss diet.
Yes, cherry tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and other nutrients.
Yes, cherry tomatoes are often eaten raw in salads, as a snack, or as a garnish.
Cherry tomatoes can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, pasta dishes, sandwiches, and as a topping for pizzas.
Final Thoughts
Cherry tomatoes are a low-calorie and nutrient-dense food that can be a great addition to any diet.
They are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and are a great source of fiber.
Whether eaten raw as a snack or incorporated into dishes like salads, pasta dishes, and sandwiches, cherry tomatoes can add a burst of flavor and nutrition to any meal.
So next time you’re looking for a healthy and tasty ingredient to add to your meal, consider adding some delicious cherry tomatoes!
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