On-the-Vine Tomatoes

What Are Tomatoes on the Vine?

Tomatoes on the vine are medium-sized tomatoes harvested ripe on the vine with their stem cluster attached, rather than picked individually (Solanum lycopersicum). Because they ripen on the vine, their aroma is generally stronger.

The green vine cluster carries much of the tomato’s characteristic aroma; for this reason, tomatoes on the vine are considered advantageous both for perceived freshness and shelf life.

Nutrition Facts for Tomatoes on the Vine

Tomatoes are a low-calorie vegetable (about 18 kcal per 100 grams) with a high water content; they contain vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene. The values are approximate for ripe tomatoes and may vary slightly by cultivar.

What Are the Benefits of Tomatoes on the Vine?

With their vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene content, tomatoes on the vine can be considered part of a balanced diet; because they ripen on the vine, their aroma and perceived vitamin C content are high.

This information is general; tomatoes on the vine are a food and are not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Tomatoes on the Vine

Good tomatoes on the vine should be evenly ripe, with uncracked skins and a green, firm cluster; tomatoes with dried, darkened clusters have been sitting for a while.

• The cluster (green stem) should be fresh, firm, and green.
• The tomatoes should be evenly colored and uncracked.
• A distinct tomato aroma from the cluster is a sign of freshness.

How to Store Tomatoes on the Vine

Tomatoes on the vine can be stored at room temperature for 4–6 days with the stems attached and the cluster facing downward; this slows moisture loss from the stem ends of the tomatoes. Refrigeration is not preferred because it dulls the aroma.

Using Tomatoes on the Vine in the Kitchen

Tomatoes on the vine are used raw in salads and appetizers, as well as cooked by roasting or sautéing; roasting them still on the vine makes an impressive presentation.

How to Roast Tomatoes on the Vine

Arrange the whole cluster on a baking sheet with olive oil, salt, and garlic, and roast at high heat until the skins split; serve hot with pasta, toast, and grilled meat.

Tomato-on-the-Vine Sauce

Chop the tomatoes on the vine and cook them over low heat with onion and olive oil, then mash them to make a fresh pasta sauce.

What Recipes Use Tomatoes on the Vine?

Roasted tomatoes on the vine, tomato sauce, shepherd’s salad, and bruschetta are common ways to use tomatoes on the vine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are tomatoes on the vine more aromatic?

Much of the characteristic tomato aroma comes from the green vine cluster; also, because the tomatoes ripen on the vine, their aroma compounds develop further.

Why are tomatoes sold with the vine attached?

Selling them with the stem attached both increases the perception of freshness and slows water loss from the stem ends of the tomatoes, extending shelf life.

Should tomatoes on the vine be refrigerated?

It is not preferred; cold dulls the aroma and texture. For the best results, store them at room temperature with the vine attached.

Can you eat the vine cluster on tomatoes?

No. The green vine cluster and leaves are not eaten; they are left attached for aroma and freshness and removed before eating.

Are tomatoes on the vine nutritionally different from regular tomatoes?

Their nutritional values are largely similar; the main difference is the greater aroma intensity from the way they ripen, and there is no notable difference in nutritional values.