Summertime Is Tomato Time
Christel GurscheCan you think of anything more delicious than biting into a juicy, sun-ripened tomato picked from the vine in your garden or on your balcony?
Can you think of anything more delicious than biting into a juicy, sun-ripened tomato picked from the vine in your garden or on your balcony?
The tomato belongs to the nightshade family (Solanaceae) and is one of the world’s most nourishing plants. Scientists have counted more than 3,000 varieties of tomatoes, including the wild plants.
The brilliant red, orange or even yellow colour is not only a sight to behold but also a great health benefit. The colour pigment, called lycopene, is an antioxidant and a carotenoid, which studies have shown can reduce the risk of cancer, especially that of the prostate, stomach and lungs.
Lycopene is not destroyed by heat and thus is available if tomatoes are heat treated. However, you will get the most nutrition and enzymes when preparing the tomato naturally uncooked. Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A, B complex and C, and potassium and phosphorus.
The tomato harvest is one of the greatest joys of summer. Enjoy the following recipes and have a tremendous tomato experience.
Jennifer Simonson
Beth Rush
Amanda Modaragamage
Nancy Hillis