The tomato has been called many things throughout history: Peruvian apple, love apple, and even, by Americans at least, a vegetable.
Today, however, this lovely fruit is fast becoming known as Superfood!
While not able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, this super hero of the nutrition world is able to do some pretty amazing things. For example, some studies show the tomato may help decrease the risk of prostate cancer, as well as breast, lung and stomach cancers.
And the Herald Sun reported in 2003 that the yellow jelly around the seeds have yet another benefit: They may stop blood cells from clumping together, which sometimes leads to strokes and heart attacks.
What is it about this little red fruit that makes it so amazing?
Answer: Lycopene.
Okay, so the word lycopene doesn’t sound very appetizing, but this powerful antioxidant is the chemical in tomatoes that not only is responsible for it’s red color, but also responsible for its disease-fighting powers.
Just ask an Italian.
Italian cooking relies very heavily on tomatoes and tomato products. And, some studies have suggested that this heavy intake of tomatoes by Italians has resulted in a lowering of cancer of the digestive tract.
Do I have to eat tomatoes by the truckload?
Now, you’re probably thinking you have to consume tons and tons of fresh tomatoes to enjoy any health benefits. Not true.
In one research study it was reported that people who ate tomatoes at least every other day had greater lung capacity. And, the tomatoes don’t even have to be fresh! Again, research shows that the lycopene in tomatoes is more easily absorbed by the body if processed into ketchup, sauce and paste. So, not only are tomatoes a superfood, they’re an easy superfood to include in your diet.
Of course, fresh tomatoes are still beneficial, and packed with wonderful nutrients (not to mention delicious). Just remember the one rule of fresh tomatoes: don’t put them in the refrigerator. The refrigerator destroys not only the flavor, it also destroys the nutrients.
So, go ahead, do something good for your health tonight. Have a tomato!
The food and wine pairings that often appear at the bottom of a restaurant menu might seem like a difficult thing to dream up, but the reality of an elegant and unforgettable dinner party does not have to be hard to execute. If you’re organizing a dinner soon and are considering food and wine pairings that will be sure to impress, here are a few guidelines that will make for a successful evening replete with a meal your guests won’t soon forget.
From affogato all the way to gelato, there are many popular Italian treats that tempt the palette, but few desserts are more iconic than the espresso-infused Tiramisu. While most people have enjoyed this decadent treat in a restaurant – or in the country of origin with a little luck – it is not as complicated to make as it might seem. With a little background and a few simple ingredients, here’s how this dessert came to be and how you can make your very own version of this old favorite.
With so many influential dishes throughout the country, from the hills of Tuscany to the island of Sicily, it’s no surprise that Italy’s culinary influence dates back 2000 years ago to the early days of the Roman Empire. Due to the simplicity of its preparation and ingredients, many of the most popular foods in any country spring from the culinary traditions of Italy. In a world where cuisine is virtually borderless, the food of the ancient Romans has captured the taste buds and held the attention of those who love food all over the world.