September Vegetable of the Month: Tomato

A variety of cherry and heirloom tomatoes being sold at the Veggielution Farmstand.

FUN FACTS:

• Tomatoes are actually classified as fruits of the tomato plant

• There are more than 7500 varieties of tomatoes grown around the world

• They originated from around the area of modern-day Peru and was first used as food by the Aztecs in Southern Mexico

• China is the largest producer of tomatoes, followed by the United States and India, respectively

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION AND HEALTH BENEFITS:

• Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a heart-healthy antioxidant and cancer-fighter

• They are packed with vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and potassium

• Tomatoes yield their nutritional benefits better when cooked rather than raw

RECIPE IDEAS:

• Make your own pasta sauce with fresh tomatoes

• Cook beautiful grilled tomatoes, perfect as a dinner side-dish or atop sandwiches

• Create a fresh salsa that can be added to tacos, salads, and more