It is Germany's most popular vegetable (although botanically it is a fruit!) and a must-have in any salad. Whether as ketchup, sauce, or fresh from the vine – the tomato is incredibly versatile. But behind its plump, red skin lies more than just water and flavor. It's a true heart protector and anti-inflammatory. Find out here why you should take advantage of the summer months to eat your fill of these red spheres.
What you should know about tomatoes
The tomato is a child of the sun. Its main outdoor season is between June and September. During this time, it tastes best because it has been able to ripen on the plant.
Especially great: It is available almost everywhere regionally – from large farms to balcony boxes in the city. The riper the tomato is harvested, the more intense its aroma.
Nutrients & Effects
Tomatoes are wellness from within. They are extremely rich in water (over 90% water) and, with only 18 calories per 100g, a figure-friendly delight.
They score multiple points for health: They have anti-inflammatory effects (thanks to the pigment lycopene) and thus protect cells. They are also considered to lower blood pressure, which makes them an important food for the cardiovascular system.
A note for sensitive stomachs: Tomatoes are sensitive to acid or contain fruit acids that can irritate in cases of heartburn or reflux. Those who react to them should consume them cooked, as they are often more digestible then.
Taste & Texture
A good tomato tastes sweet and sour, fruity, and savory (umami). A very important point from your overview for all smoothie fans: The tomato is not suitable for sweet smoothies. Its savory aroma does not harmonize at all with banana, berries, or vanilla. However, it works well in green, savory smoothies (e.g., with cucumber and bell pepper).
Preparation with Kitchen Appliances
The tomato is extremely versatile, and your kitchen appliances can help you with that:
- Slow Juicer / Juicer: Tomato juice is a classic – and according to your chart, tomatoes are easy to juice. The juice, pure or with a little salt and pepper, is an ideal, low-calorie snack. Since it's rich in water, you get a high yield.
- Blender: Since sweet smoothies are taboo, use the blender for the ultimate summer hit: Gazpacho! This cold Spanish soup made from raw tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and garlic becomes wonderfully creamy and refreshing in a blender.
- Air Fryer: "Sun-dried Tomatoes" in fast motion? Halve small tomatoes, season them with herbs, and dry them at a low temperature in the air fryer. This way, you get intense "oven tomatoes" for pasta or salads.
- Bread Maker: A Mediterranean tomato bread is a delight. Add dried tomato pieces and Italian herbs to the dough. The bread gets a reddish color and a great aroma.
- Ice Cube Tray: Do you have too many ripe tomatoes? Puree them (or cook a quick sauce) and freeze them in portions in an ice cube tray. This way, you always have the perfect amount of "tomato power" on hand to refine sauces or soups in winter.
Shopping & Storage
The nose decides: A good tomato has an intensely spicy aroma of tomato plant at the stem end. The skin should be plump.
Very important: Tomatoes should never be stored in the refrigerator! The cold destroys the aroma and makes them mealy. Store them in a bowl at room temperature – and ideally separately, as they release the ripening gas ethylene, which can cause other fruits to spoil faster.
Use in the Kitchen
- Caprese: The classic with mozzarella, basil, and olive oil.
- Sauces: The longer it cooks, the more lycopene is released and the more intense the flavor.
- Stuffed: Large beefsteak tomatoes can be wonderfully filled with rice or minced meat and baked in the oven.
Fun Facts
- Love Apple: In earlier times, tomatoes were also called "love apples" or "golden apples" (Pomodoro).
- Lycopene Trick: The healthy pigment lycopene (anti-inflammatory) can be absorbed better by the body if the tomato is heated and eaten with some fat (oil). So ketchup is healthy (in moderation)!
- Poisonous Green: The green stem and leaves contain solanine and are slightly toxic – always cut away the stem generously.
Conclusion
The tomato is the seasonal king of summer. It is rich in water, lowers blood pressure, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Although it is sensitive to acid and definitely not suitable for sweet smoothies, it is unbeatable as a savory juice (it's easy to juice) or a cold soup from a blender. Enjoy it regionally from June to September!
