What Is Cherry Tomato?
Cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a small, round variety of the regular tomato, from the nightshade family. It is named for its cherry-sized size.
Since its skin-to-flesh ratio is higher than a regular tomato, its taste is usually more intense and sweeter. It comes in different color varieties such as red, yellow, and orange.
Nutritional Values of Cherry Tomato
Cherry tomato is low in calories; 100 g provides about 18 kcal of energy. It is a source of vitamin C and potassium, and also contains a plant pigment called lycopene.
What Are the Benefits of Cherry Tomato?
With its low calorie and high water content, cherry tomato is among the vegetables preferred as part of a balanced diet. Research on the lycopene it contains is ongoing; these studies have not yet turned into a definitive health recommendation.
This information is general; cherry tomato is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Cherry Tomato?
A good cherry tomato has a shiny skin, a fresh stem, and feels slightly heavy in the hand.
- The skin should be shiny and taut; wrinkled or soft tomatoes have gone stale.
- The stem should look green and fresh; a dried stem indicates it has been sitting a long time.
- The color should be uniform for its type; greenish spots indicate it is not fully ripe.
How to Store Cherry Tomato?
Cherry tomato keeps its best aroma at room temperature, out of direct sunlight, for 3-4 days. Storing it in the refrigerator can make its texture mealy and reduce its flavor; unripe tomatoes should be kept at room temperature.
Using Cherry Tomato in the Kitchen
Cherry tomato is mostly used raw in salads, and also added to pasta sauces and appetizers after being roasted in the oven. It can be used whole or cut in half.
How to Make Roasted Cherry Tomatoes?
Tomatoes cut in half are tossed with olive oil, salt, and thyme, then roasted in a high-heat oven for 15-20 minutes until the edges lightly brown. This method brings out its natural sweetness.
Which Recipes Use Cherry Tomato?
Cherry tomato salad, pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes, bruschetta, and caprese are among the best-known recipes. It also frequently appears in vegetable skewers and appetizers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cherry tomato good for?
Cherry tomato is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, and stands out among the vegetables that are part of a balanced diet. It is a food; it does not claim to cure any disease.
Should cherry tomato be kept in the refrigerator?
For short-term storage, room temperature is preferred; aroma and texture are better preserved. If it will be kept for longer, it can be put in the refrigerator, but it should be brought back to room temperature before eating.
What is the difference between cherry tomato and regular tomato?
Cherry tomato is small in size and has a higher skin-to-flesh ratio; this usually means a more intense and sweeter aroma.
Can cherry tomato be frozen?
Yes, it can be frozen whole; however, since its texture softens once thawed, it is mostly recommended for use in cooked sauces.
Is there a difference between yellow cherry tomato and red?
The color difference is largely due to different pigment ratios; yellow varieties are generally slightly less acidic and a bit sweeter in taste.