How many calories are in 5 cooked tomatoes?

November 3, 2025 •

4 min read

According to nutrition data from Eat This Much, five medium cooked tomatoes contain approximately 111 calories. This low-calorie food is a versatile ingredient, and understanding how many calories are in 5 cooked tomatoes is key for mindful meal planning.

Quick Summary

Five medium cooked tomatoes contain about 111 calories, though the exact amount can vary based on size and preparation. The cooking process can also affect nutrient availability, particularly for the powerful antioxidant lycopene.

Key Points

Total Calories: Five medium cooked tomatoes contain approximately 111 calories.
Lycopene Boost: Cooking tomatoes increases the bioavailability of the antioxidant lycopene.
Low-Calorie: Tomatoes are an excellent low-calorie food for weight management and healthy eating.
Nutrient-Rich: They are packed with essential nutrients like vitamins C and K, as well as potassium and fiber.
Preparation Matters: The calorie count is affected by size, variety, and cooking methods, especially the use of added fats.
Versatile Ingredient: Cooked tomatoes are a delicious and healthy addition to sauces, soups, and roasted vegetable dishes.
Heart Health: The lycopene and potassium in tomatoes contribute to a reduced risk of heart disease.

Understanding the Calorie Count in Cooked Tomatoes

On average, five medium-sized, cooked red tomatoes provide approximately 111 calories. This places cooked tomatoes firmly in the low-calorie food category, making them an excellent choice for weight management and healthy eating. However, this is an average, and the final calorie count can be affected by several factors, including the size of the tomatoes, the specific variety, and any additional ingredients used during cooking.

Key Factors Influencing Calorie Content

Tomato Size: The most significant variable is size. Five large tomatoes will have more calories than five small ones. For context, a single medium cooked tomato is estimated to have around 20 calories, while a large one could have around 30 calories.
Cooking Method: Preparation method is crucial. Simple cooking methods like steaming, grilling, or roasting without added fat will keep the calorie count low. However, cooking with oil, butter, or adding creamy sauces will increase the overall calorie load significantly.
Variety: While the calorie difference between varieties is minor, it exists. Certain varieties like Roma or cherry tomatoes might have slightly different nutritional profiles per weight than standard round tomatoes.

Nutritional Profile Beyond Calories

While the low-calorie count is impressive, the true value of cooked tomatoes lies in their nutrient density. Cooking tomatoes actually has a beneficial effect on some of their most important components. The heat treatment makes the antioxidant lycopene more bioavailable, meaning the body can absorb and utilize it more effectively.

Key Nutrients in Cooked Tomatoes

Lycopene: A powerful antioxidant known for its potential to reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers, including prostate cancer. The concentration of lycopene in processed tomato products is often higher than in fresh tomatoes.
Vitamin C: An essential nutrient and antioxidant that supports the immune system and skin health.
Potassium: This mineral is vital for blood pressure control and proper heart function.
Fiber: Supports digestive health and promotes feelings of fullness, which is beneficial for weight management.
Vitamin K1: Important for blood clotting and bone health.

Calorie Comparison: Cooked vs. Raw Tomatoes

Understanding the difference between raw and cooked tomatoes helps in making informed dietary choices. While raw tomatoes are also nutritious, the cooking process alters their composition in key ways.


Feature	Cooked Tomato	Raw Tomato
Estimated Calories (per medium tomato)	~20 kcal	~22 kcal
Lycopene Bioavailability	Higher, as heat breaks down cell walls	Lower, due to intact cell walls
Vitamin C	May be slightly reduced by heat	Retained at full concentration
Texture	Softer, less water content	Crisp, high water content
Nutrient Density	High, with concentrated flavor	High
Preparation Versatility	Sauces, soups, roasted dishes	Salads, sandwiches, fresh snacks

Healthy Cooking Methods for Tomatoes

To reap the health benefits of tomatoes without adding unnecessary calories, consider these simple preparation methods:

Roasting: Tossing tomatoes with a small amount of olive oil and herbs before roasting brings out their natural sweetness and concentrates their flavors. Olive oil also aids in lycopene absorption.
Steaming: Steaming or simmering tomatoes in their own juices for sauces or soups is a great way to cook them without adding fat.
Grilling: Grilling tomatoes adds a smoky flavor and a tender texture, perfect for side dishes or bruschetta.
Sautéing: A quick sauté with cooking spray or a minimal amount of oil can create a delicious base for many dishes, including pasta sauces or scrambles.

Adding Cooked Tomatoes to a Balanced Diet

Cooked tomatoes are a simple and flavorful addition to countless meals. Their versatility means they can be a staple in a health-conscious diet.

Here are some ideas for incorporating cooked tomatoes into your meals:

Pasta Sauce: Create a simple, low-calorie tomato sauce by simmering cooked, chopped tomatoes with garlic and herbs. Skip the sugar and heavy cream found in many store-bought options.
Roasted Veggies: Add cherry tomatoes to a pan of roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and onions for a boost of color and nutrients.
Shakshuka: This popular Middle Eastern and North African dish features eggs poached in a flavorful tomato sauce. Use a base of cooked tomatoes and minimal oil for a filling and nutritious meal.
Soups and Stews: Cooked tomatoes form an ideal base for hearty and comforting soups and stews, from a classic tomato soup to a lentil and tomato stew.

Conclusion

In summary, five medium cooked tomatoes are a very low-calorie food, averaging about 111 calories. This makes them a smart and healthy choice for anyone looking to manage their weight or boost their nutrient intake. Cooking tomatoes is particularly beneficial for increasing the bioavailability of lycopene, a potent antioxidant. By choosing healthy cooking methods and avoiding excessive added fats, you can maximize the health benefits of this delicious and versatile ingredient. They are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, adding significant nutritional value to your meals beyond their low-calorie count.

Incorporating cooked tomatoes into your diet through simple recipes like sauces, roasted dishes, or soups can be a delicious and effective way to support your overall health and well-being. Health Benefits of Tomatoes

Frequently Asked Questions

Cooking tomatoes can decrease the amount of some heat-sensitive vitamins, like Vitamin C. However, it significantly increases the bioavailability of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, making it easier for your body to absorb.

Yes, while raw tomatoes contain lycopene, the cooking process breaks down the cell walls, releasing the antioxidant and making it more easily absorbed by the body. This is why tomato paste often has a higher concentration of lycopene.

To avoid adding calories, use cooking methods like steaming, grilling, or roasting with minimal or no oil. You can use herbs, spices, or a splash of vegetable broth to add flavor instead of fat.

Not necessarily. Canned tomatoes are often very similar in calorie count to fresh cooked tomatoes, as long as they aren't canned in heavy syrups or sauces. Check the label for any added ingredients like sugar or oil that could increase the calorie content.

Cooked tomatoes are rich in lycopene, which is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. They also provide vitamins C and K, potassium, and fiber, contributing to overall health.

Tomatoes are a low-calorie food that can be part of a weight-loss diet. Their high water and fiber content help promote feelings of fullness. However, weight loss depends on overall calorie intake and exercise, not just a single food.

Yes, although the difference is usually minor, the calorie count per tomato can vary slightly by variety and size. For example, smaller cherry tomatoes will have fewer calories individually than a large beefsteak tomato, but the nutritional density is consistent.

Yes, consuming lycopene with a source of fat, like olive oil, has been shown to increase absorption by up to four times. This is why adding a small amount of healthy oil is beneficial.