San Marzano Tomato
Solanum lycopersicumA DOP-protected tomato variety grown in the volcanic soil of Italy's Campania region, around Mount Vesuvius. Long and cylindrical, with meaty flesh, few seeds, and low acidity, it is a classic base for Italian sauces.
What Is a San Marzano Tomato?
San Marzano is a long, cylindrical tomato variety grown in the volcanic soil of Italy's Campania region, around Mount Vesuvius (Solanum lycopersicum). When grown in a specific geographic area, authentic San Marzano tomatoes carry the DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) designation.
It has thick flesh, a small seed cavity, and low acidity; these qualities make it a naturally sweet, balanced base for sauces. Canned San Marzano tomatoes are considered a quality benchmark in Italian and international cuisine.
San Marzano Tomato Nutrition Facts
One hundred grams of raw San Marzano tomato contains approximately 18 kcal of energy, 3.9 g of carbohydrates, and 1.2 g of fiber; like standard tomatoes, it is rich in vitamin C. Values are approximate.
How Should San Marzano Tomatoes Be Eaten?
San Marzano tomatoes can be part of a balanced diet as a low-calorie food and a source of vitamin C; they are most often eaten cooked, as a sauce.
This information is general. San Marzano tomatoes are food and are not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose San Marzano Tomatoes
A good San Marzano tomato is deep red, with firm, smooth skin and a long, cylindrical shape. On canned products, the “DOP” label distinguishes authentic products; avoid fresh tomatoes that are bruised or soft.
- Look for firm skin and a deep red color.
- It should be long and cylindrical, with a small seed cavity.
- On canned products, the “DOP” label verifies the authentic product.
How to Store San Marzano Tomatoes
Store fresh San Marzano tomatoes in a cool place at room temperature for a few days; refrigerator temperatures dull their flavor. Once opened, canned tomatoes keep for 3–4 days in a covered container in the refrigerator.
Using San Marzano Tomatoes in the Kitchen
San Marzano tomatoes are used most often for tomato sauce, pizza sauce, and Italian stews. Canned versions are available nearly year-round and taste close to the fresh tomatoes.
What Is the Difference Between San Marzano and Roma Tomatoes?
Both are plum-shaped tomatoes suited to sauces. San Marzano tomatoes have a geographical designation and are longer and slimmer, while Roma tomatoes are shorter and plumper and can be grown around the world. Roma tomatoes are a widely available practical alternative to San Marzano tomatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you tell if San Marzano tomatoes are authentic?
Look for the wording “San Marzano dell'Agro Sarnese-Nocerino DOP” and a certification number on the can; products labeled only “San Marzano type” may have been grown in a different region.
Can San Marzano tomatoes be eaten raw?
Yes, but their low-acidity, meaty qualities are most evident in cooked sauces; eating them fresh is uncommon.
What can I use instead of San Marzano tomatoes?
Roma (plum) tomatoes or high-quality canned plum tomatoes give similar results; use these alternatives when fresh San Marzano tomatoes are unavailable.