Local tomatoes are coming into their prime this summer! Organic tomatoes add freshness and flavour to many summer dishes, from being grilled as a side, to adding brightness to your salads.
Tomatoes contain plenty of health benefits, giving you more reasons to have them in your meals:
They contain lycopene – as mentioned in previous posts, lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that can reduce bad cholesterol, as well as promote good heart and skin health.
Tomatoes stimulate blood circulation – this can be useful for managing hypertension and other circulatory issues.
They are high in fiber – dietary fiber is important for maintaining healthy digestion, as well as aiding in the absorption of nutrients in your gut.
Tomatoes contain a high level of Vitamin K – this vitamin is essential for the creation of proteins the body needs, as well as the coagulation of blood to help the healing process of wounds.
They contain couramic and chlorogenic acid – these elements in tomatoes fight specifically against carcinogens in the body that are produced by cigarettes.
Tomatoes reduce oxidative stress from type 2 diabetes – with the help of lycopene and other antioxidants, tomatoes can help reduce damage done in the body from harmful free radicals.
Try a couple of these summer-forward recipes that will highlight any BBQ this season!
CHERRY TOMATO PASTA:
In a pot of boiling water, cook 1 serving of organic spaghetti as directed on the package.
In a food processor, blend 1 large handful of fresh organic basil, 1 clove of organic garlic, 1/3 C organic pine nuts, sea salt, black pepper, and add olive oil while blending until desired consistency is reached to create a homemade pesto.
Mix in the pesto with the pasta once cooked, and add 1-2 C of chopped cherry tomatoes and shaved parmesan to taste. Serve warm!
BAKED PARMESAN AND HERB TOMATOES:
Halve 2 medium sized organic hothouse tomatoes. With the sliced side facing up, top with 1 tsp. parsley, 1 tsp. garlic powder, 1 tsp. chili flakes, 1 tsp. black pepper, 1 tsp. sea salt and grated parmesan to taste. Broil in the oven at 375 for 15 minutes or until cheese melts and starts to brown. Serve as a side to any summer dish!
