Tomatoes, whether the common garden variety or smaller cherry types, are celebrated for their nutritional benefits and versatility in cooking. The question of how many calories are in 85 grams of raw tomatoes? is a common one for those tracking their intake. At roughly 15 calories for 85 grams, they offer a great way to add flavor, volume, and nutrients to a meal without significantly impacting your daily calorie budget. This low energy density is largely due to their high water content, which makes up about 95% of their weight.
The Nutritional Breakdown of 85 Grams of Raw Tomatoes
Beyond just the calories, a serving of raw tomatoes packs a surprising amount of nutritional value. This is what makes them a powerhouse food despite their minimal caloric contribution.
- Carbohydrates: An 85g serving contains approximately 3 grams of carbohydrates, mostly from natural sugars like glucose and fructose.
- Fiber: With about 1 gram of dietary fiber, tomatoes support digestive health.
- Protein: The protein content is low, roughly 1 gram for this portion size.
- Fat: Raw tomatoes contain very little fat, around 0.2 grams.
- Vitamins and Minerals: They are an excellent source of several key micronutrients, including Vitamin C, Potassium, and Vitamin K.
- Antioxidants: Tomatoes are famously rich in antioxidants, most notably lycopene, which is responsible for their red color and linked to numerous health benefits.
Comparison of Tomato Types by Calorie Count
While the nutritional profile is consistent, different types of tomatoes can have slightly different calorie counts and nutrient densities, primarily due to size and sugar content. Here is a comparison to illustrate the subtle differences in an approximate 85-gram serving.
| Tomato Type (Raw) | Approx. Calories (85g) | Key Macronutrient Features |
|---|---|---|
| Red, Ripe Tomatoes | 15 calories | Standard calorie base, rich in lycopene |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 15 calories | Slightly sweeter, similar calories per gram |
| Green Tomatoes | 20 calories | Higher calorie count and different nutrient profile |
| Roma Tomatoes (approx. 62g) | 12 calories | Lower water content, denser flesh, but still low-cal |
It is important to note that the preparation method can also affect the final calorie count. For instance, cooking tomatoes in olive oil, while potentially increasing the total calories, can enhance the body's absorption of fat-soluble nutrients like lycopene.
Tomatoes in a Balanced Diet
Incorporating tomatoes into a balanced diet is simple and beneficial. Due to their low calorie and high nutrient content, they can be used to add flavor and moisture to meals without compromising dietary goals. For example, a handful of cherry tomatoes can add a burst of flavor to a salad, or a few slices can enhance the texture and taste of a sandwich.
Practical Ways to Use Raw Tomatoes
- Salads: Add chopped or halved tomatoes to any salad for extra color, flavor, and nutrients.
- Snacks: Eat cherry or grape tomatoes on their own as a quick, healthy snack.
- Salsas and Dips: Raw, diced tomatoes are a primary ingredient in fresh salsas. You can also mix them with other vegetables like onions and jalapeños for a homemade dip.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: Sliced tomatoes add a juicy, fresh element to sandwiches, burgers, and wraps.
- Garnishes: Use diced tomatoes as a garnish for soups, scrambled eggs, or avocado toast.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an 85-gram serving of raw tomatoes is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense food option containing roughly 15 calories. Their high water content and abundance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants make them an excellent choice for anyone looking to eat healthier, manage their weight, or simply add more color and flavor to their meals. Whether you prefer large beefsteaks or small cherry tomatoes, this versatile fruit provides a healthful boost with minimal caloric impact. It's a testament to how simple, whole foods can be a powerful tool for wellness.
Key takeaways
- Low Calorie Count: An 85-gram serving of raw tomatoes contains approximately 15 calories, making it a very low-energy food choice.
- Rich in Nutrients: Despite being low in calories, tomatoes are packed with beneficial vitamins like C, K, and folate, as well as essential minerals like potassium.
- High Water Content: Composed of about 95% water, tomatoes contribute to hydration while adding volume to meals.
- Antioxidant Powerhouse: Tomatoes are a major source of the antioxidant lycopene, which offers various health benefits, including heart health support.
- Versatile Ingredient: Raw tomatoes can be easily incorporated into salads, snacks, sandwiches, and homemade salsas to add flavor and nutrition.
