How many calories are in 20 cherry tomatoes? A complete guide

December 5, 2025 •

3 min read

According to nutrition data, 20 raw cherry tomatoes contain approximately 61 calories. This serving offers a low-calorie, nutrient-rich option for snacking or meal preparation. Understanding the exact nutritional content can help you incorporate this healthy food into your diet effectively.

Quick Summary

This article details the caloric content and a full nutritional profile of 20 cherry tomatoes. It explores their low-calorie nature, macronutrient breakdown, and how they fit into a balanced diet. Information covers their weight, antioxidant properties, and how preparation methods can alter calorie counts.

Key Points

Calorie Count: 20 raw cherry tomatoes contain approximately 61 calories.
Nutrient-Dense: They are a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Potassium.
Rich in Antioxidants: Cherry tomatoes are packed with beneficial antioxidants like lycopene and beta-carotene.
Low in Fat: The fat content is very low, making them a diet-friendly option.
Satiating Snack: Their high fiber and water content helps you feel full, which can aid in weight management.
Calorie Variation: Calorie content increases with preparation methods, such as roasting with oil.
Enhanced Lycopene Absorption: Cooking with a small amount of fat can increase the bioavailability of lycopene.

Calorie Breakdown of 20 Cherry Tomatoes

When counting calories or tracking macronutrients, knowing the specific values for whole foods is essential. For 20 raw cherry tomatoes, the calorie count is relatively low, making them a popular choice for healthy eating and weight management. Multiple sources confirm that a serving of 20 cherry tomatoes, which weighs roughly 100 to 120 grams depending on size, contains around 61 calories. This makes them an excellent, guilt-free snack.

What Makes Up the Calories in Cherry Tomatoes?

The 61 calories are not all created equal; they come from a combination of macronutrients. Here is the approximate breakdown for 20 cherry tomatoes:

Carbohydrates: Approximately 13 grams, with about 4 grams coming from dietary fiber. This high fiber content contributes to the feeling of fullness.
Protein: Around 3 grams. While not a significant source of protein, it does add to the overall nutritional profile.
Fat: Less than 1 gram of total fat. The fat content is minimal, contributing very few calories to the total.

Other Key Nutrients in 20 Cherry Tomatoes

Beyond just calories, 20 cherry tomatoes pack a significant nutritional punch. They are rich in various vitamins and minerals vital for overall health. A single serving is a great source of Vitamin C, providing over half of the daily value. They also offer substantial amounts of Vitamin A, Potassium, and other essential nutrients.

Nutrient Profile per 20 Cherry Tomatoes:

Vitamin C: Approximately 47 mg (52% Daily Value)
Potassium: Approximately 806 mg (17% Daily Value)
Vitamin K: Approximately 27 μg (22% Daily Value)
Antioxidants: Rich in lycopene, beta carotene, and lutein, which are powerful antioxidants that protect cells from damage.

Cooking Methods and Calorie Adjustments

While raw cherry tomatoes are low in calories, the way you prepare them can significantly affect their final calorie count. The addition of fats like olive oil is the most common reason for this increase.

Calorie Comparison: Raw vs. Roasted Cherry Tomatoes


Preparation Method	Calorie Count (per 20)	Additional Ingredients	Considerations
Raw Cherry Tomatoes	~61 calories	None	Preserves all vitamins and nutrients. Ideal for fresh salads and snacking.
Roasted Cherry Tomatoes	~140-180+ calories (est.)	1 tbsp olive oil	Adds significant fat and calories. The calorie count depends on the amount of oil used.
Sautéed Cherry Tomatoes	~100-150+ calories (est.)	Cooking oil/butter	Similar to roasting, added fat increases calories. Quick to prepare.
Cherry Tomato Sauce	Varies widely	Oil, sugar, salt, other vegetables	Calorie count can vary significantly based on recipe. Be mindful of added ingredients.

For those watching their caloric intake, eating cherry tomatoes raw is the best option. If roasting, use a minimal amount of healthy fat like olive oil and measure it carefully. Season with herbs and spices instead of relying on high-calorie dressings.

The Health Benefits of Lycopene and Antioxidants

Cherry tomatoes are a fantastic source of lycopene, a potent antioxidant responsible for their red color. Lycopene is associated with numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers, such as prostate cancer. The body's ability to absorb lycopene is enhanced when tomatoes are cooked, particularly with a small amount of fat. Therefore, while roasting adds calories, it can also boost the bioavailability of this specific nutrient.

Weight Management and Satiety

Because of their high water and fiber content, cherry tomatoes are an excellent food for weight management. The fiber helps to increase feelings of fullness, or satiety, which can help control overall calorie consumption. This makes them a perfect, low-calorie snack that can curb hunger without sabotaging your diet.

Versatile Ways to Enjoy Cherry Tomatoes

Here are some simple and healthy ways to incorporate cherry tomatoes into your meals:

Salads: Toss them into any green salad for a pop of sweetness and color.
Snacks: Eat them plain or with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a quick, hydrating snack.
Pasta: Add them to pasta dishes, either raw or lightly sautéed.
Skewers: Thread them onto skewers with mozzarella balls and basil for a caprese-style appetizer.
Bruschetta: Chop them up and use them as a topping for bruschetta.
Roasted Veggies: Roast them with other vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a flavorful side dish.
Omelets: Add them to omelets or scrambled eggs for extra flavor and nutrients.

Conclusion

In summary, 20 raw cherry tomatoes contain approximately 61 calories, making them a very low-calorie, healthy food choice. They provide a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and powerful antioxidants, particularly lycopene. The method of preparation can influence the final calorie count, with raw tomatoes being the lowest in calories. By incorporating them mindfully into your diet, you can enjoy their flavor and significant health benefits while easily managing your caloric intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, cherry tomatoes are excellent for weight loss. They are low in calories and high in fiber and water, which helps you feel full and satisfied without consuming many calories.

Cooked cherry tomatoes often have more calories, but this depends on the cooking method. If you roast or sauté them with oil, the added oil will significantly increase the calorie count. If cooked without oil, the calorie change is minimal.

The primary antioxidant in cherry tomatoes is lycopene, which is responsible for their red color. Lycopene has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

While larger tomatoes have similar nutritional profiles, the calorie content per fruit is higher due to their size. Per 100 grams, the calorie density of cherry tomatoes is similar to larger varieties.

No, cherry tomatoes are not considered high in sugar. 20 cherry tomatoes contain approximately 9 grams of sugar, but their high fiber content helps manage blood sugar levels.

While it's healthy to eat cherry tomatoes, excessive consumption might lead to minor digestive discomfort due to their acidity. However, they are generally a very healthy food to eat in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet.

To get the most nutrients, consume a mix of both raw and cooked cherry tomatoes. Eating them raw provides maximum Vitamin C, while cooking them with a little bit of fat increases the body's absorption of lycopene.