How many calories in a whole big tomato?

November 27, 2025 •

3 min read

According to USDA data, a single large, 3-inch diameter tomato contains approximately 33 calories. This makes it a perfect addition for anyone asking how many calories in a whole big tomato for their diet plans and healthy eating regimen.

Quick Summary

A typical large tomato contains about 33 calories, with its weight being over 95% water. It provides a significant amount of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, like lycopene, while remaining very low in fat and sugar.

Key Points

Low Calorie Count: A large, 3-inch diameter tomato contains approximately 33 calories, making it a very low-energy-density food.
High Water Content: Tomatoes are composed of about 95% water, which contributes to a feeling of fullness and supports hydration.
Rich in Lycopene: The powerful antioxidant lycopene is abundant in tomatoes and is linked to numerous health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
Source of Vitamins and Minerals: They are an excellent source of essential nutrients like Vitamin C, Potassium, and Vitamin K1.
Versatile Ingredient: A large tomato can be used in a variety of dishes, from fresh salads and sandwiches to cooked sauces, adding flavor and nutrients without excess calories.
Preparation Affects Total Calories: While the tomato itself is low-calorie, adding high-fat ingredients like oil or cheese during preparation will significantly increase the overall calorie count.

The Calorie Breakdown of a Whole Big Tomato

A large tomato, as defined by the USDA, is approximately 3 inches in diameter and weighs around 182 grams. This standard size is a useful benchmark for nutritional comparisons. A single raw, whole large tomato contains a remarkably low 33 calories. To put this in perspective, that is less than the number of calories found in a single tablespoon of many common salad dressings.

Macronutrient Profile

The bulk of the calories in a large tomato come from carbohydrates, while fat and protein content are negligible. This low energy density is largely due to its high water content, which is about 95%.

Carbohydrates: Approximately 7 grams per large tomato, with about 5 grams being from natural sugars and 2 grams from dietary fiber.
Protein: Around 1.6 grams.
Fat: A very small amount, around 0.4 grams.

Key Micronutrients

Beyond just being a low-calorie food, a big tomato is a powerhouse of micronutrients. It provides a significant portion of several daily recommended vitamins and minerals:

Vitamin C: An antioxidant important for immune function and skin health.
Potassium: Crucial for blood pressure regulation and heart health.
Vitamin K1: Essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Folate (Vitamin B9): Supports tissue growth and cell function.
Lycopene: A powerful antioxidant linked to reduced risk of heart disease and some cancers.

How Size and Preparation Affect Tomato Calories

The term "big" can be subjective, and the calorie count will change depending on the actual size and weight of the tomato. Here is a comparison of raw, ripe tomatoes of different sizes based on USDA data:


Tomato Size	Diameter	Weight (approx.)	Calories (approx.)
Cherry	-	-	3
Small	6 cm (2.4 in)	-	16
Medium	6.5 cm (2.6 in)	123 g	22
Large	7.5 cm (3 in)	182 g	33
Jumbo (Extra-Large)	> 7.5 cm	> 182 g	Varies

The Impact of Cooking and Added Ingredients

Cooking a tomato on its own does not significantly alter its caloric value. However, the preparation method can drastically increase the total calorie count. For example, a tomato cooked with a generous amount of olive oil for a sauce will absorb the fat and become much higher in calories. The same applies to frying or adding calorie-dense ingredients like cheese.

Why a Big Tomato is a Smart Dietary Choice

Incorporating large tomatoes into your diet offers numerous advantages, particularly for those focused on weight management and overall health. They are a satiating food due to their high water and fiber content, which can help you feel full without consuming many calories. The rich supply of nutrients, particularly the antioxidant lycopene, provides significant health benefits. A diet rich in tomatoes is associated with improved heart health and protection against certain diseases. You can learn more about the nutritional properties of tomatoes from authoritative sources like the NIH website.

Versatile Ways to Enjoy Low-Calorie Tomatoes

The culinary possibilities for incorporating a big tomato into your diet are endless. Here are a few ideas:

Fresh Salads: Slice or chop a large tomato and add it to a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette.
Sandwich Topping: Add thick slices to sandwiches or burgers for a juicy, low-calorie addition.
Homemade Salsa: Chop tomatoes with onions, cilantro, and jalapeños for a fresh, healthy snack.
Bruschetta: Top toasted whole-grain bread with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil for a delicious appetizer.
Gazpacho: Create a cold, refreshing soup by blending raw tomatoes with cucumber, peppers, and onions.

Conclusion: A Powerful, Low-Calorie Food

So, how many calories in a whole big tomato? The answer is a lean 33 calories, confirming its status as a healthy, low-calorie food choice. With a minimal calorie count, a large tomato provides significant nutritional value, including essential vitamins, minerals, and potent antioxidants like lycopene. Its high water and fiber content also make it an excellent food for promoting satiety and supporting weight management. Whether eaten raw in a salad or cooked in a sauce, a big tomato is a versatile and beneficial addition to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

A medium tomato, weighing about 123 grams, contains approximately 22 calories, while a large tomato, at about 182 grams, has roughly 33 calories. The calorie count increases proportionally with size.

The calorie content of canned tomatoes is often similar to fresh ones, typically around 26 calories for a large whole canned tomato. However, canned versions might contain added sodium, and if packed in juice or sauce, the nutritional profile can differ slightly.

Cooking a tomato on its own does not change its calorie content significantly. The real change in calories comes from any added ingredients, such as oil, sugar, or cheese, used during preparation.

Yes, tomatoes are considered beneficial for weight loss. Their high water and fiber content promote satiety, helping you feel full on very few calories. This can prevent overeating and aid in calorie control.

Beyond their low calorie count, large tomatoes are packed with nutrients including the antioxidant lycopene, Vitamin C, Vitamin K1, potassium, and folate.

Given that a large tomato has only 33 calories, you would need to eat a very large quantity to have a significant impact on your daily intake. This low calorie density is precisely why they are excellent for diet plans.

Yes, the calorie content can vary slightly between different types of tomatoes depending on their sugar content and size. However, generally speaking, all varieties are very low in calories per gram compared to most other foods.

Both raw and cooked tomatoes offer benefits. While cooking (especially with a little oil) can increase the bioavailability of lycopene, consuming them raw preserves the highest levels of Vitamin C. Including both raw and cooked tomatoes in your diet is ideal.