What Are Cherry Tomatoes?
Cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) are a small, round variety of regular tomato from the nightshade family. They get their name from their cherry-like size.
Their skin-to-flesh ratio is higher than that of regular tomatoes, so their flavor is generally more intense and sweet. They come in different colors, including red, yellow, and orange.
Cherry Tomato Nutrition Facts
Cherry tomatoes are low in calories; 100 g provides about 18 kcal. They are a source of vitamin C and potassium, and also contain a plant pigment called lycopene.
What Are the Benefits of Cherry Tomatoes?
With their low calorie content and high water content, cherry tomatoes are one of the vegetables chosen as part of a balanced diet. Research on the lycopene they contain is ongoing; these studies have not yet led to a definitive health recommendation.
This is general information; cherry tomatoes are a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Cherry Tomatoes
A good cherry tomato has shiny skin, a fresh stem, and feels slightly heavy in your hand.
- The skin should be shiny and taut; wrinkled or soft tomatoes are past their prime.
- The stem should look green and fresh; a dried stem indicates that the tomatoes have been sitting for a long time.
- The color should be even for the variety; greenish spots indicate that the tomatoes are underripe.
How to Store Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes keep their best flavor for 3–4 days at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration can make their texture mealy and diminish their flavor; leave underripe tomatoes at room temperature.
How to Use Cherry Tomatoes in the Kitchen
Cherry tomatoes are most often eaten raw in salads; they are also roasted in the oven and added to pasta sauces and appetizers. They can be used whole or cut in half.
How to Roast Cherry Tomatoes in the Oven
Toss halved tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and thyme, then roast in a high-heat oven for 15–20 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned. This method brings out their natural sweetness.
What Recipes Use Cherry Tomatoes?
Some of the best-known recipes include cherry tomato salad, pasta with oven-roasted cherry tomatoes, bruschetta, and caprese. Cherry tomatoes are also often used on vegetable skewers and in appetizers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cherry tomatoes good for?
Cherry tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, and are a good vegetable to include as part of a balanced diet. They are a food and do not claim to cure any disease.
Should cherry tomatoes be refrigerated?
For short-term storage, room temperature is preferred because it better preserves aroma and texture. If storing them for a longer time, they can be refrigerated, but let them come to room temperature before eating.
What is the difference between cherry tomatoes and regular tomatoes?
Cherry tomatoes are smaller and have a higher skin-to-flesh ratio, which generally means a more intense, sweeter flavor.
Can cherry tomatoes be frozen?
Yes, they can be frozen whole; however, their texture softens when thawed, so they are generally best used in cooked sauces.
Is there a difference between yellow and red cherry tomatoes?
The color difference is largely due to different pigment levels; yellow varieties are generally a little less acidic and have a slightly sweeter flavor.