Looking for a healthy and delicious ingredient to add to your meals? Look no further than 100 grams of sun-dried tomatoes! Not only are they packed with flavor, but they're also quite nutritious - clocking in at 258 calories per serving.
In addition to their calorie density, sun-dried tomatoes are also loaded with vitamins and minerals. You'll get a healthy dose of vitamin C, as well as B-vitamins like thiamin and niacin. Minerals like potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium are also present in small amounts.
But that's not all - read on to discover even more benefits of sun-dried tomatoes and how to use them in your cooking.
Rich in calories
Sun-dried tomatoes are a calorie-dense food, with 258 calories per 100-gram serving. This makes them a great choice for people who are looking to add some heft to their meals, whether they're trying to gain weight, build muscle, or simply fuel their active lifestyle. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that sun-dried tomatoes are also high in carbohydrates - with nearly 40 grams per serving. While this can be a good thing for energy purposes, people who are trying to follow a low-carb or ketogenic diet may want to limit their intake.
Packed with vitamins and minerals
As mentioned earlier, sun-dried tomatoes are a great source of several key vitamins and minerals. One of the most notable is vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in immune function, skin health, and wound healing. Additionally, sun-dried tomatoes contain a variety of B-vitamins, which are important for energy production and brain function. They also have small amounts of essential minerals like potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium.
Low in fat
If you're watching your fat intake, you'll be happy to know that sun-dried tomatoes are quite low in this macronutrient. With just 2 grams of fat per serving, they're a great option for people who are looking for a low-fat plant-based ingredient to incorporate into their meals. It's worth noting, though, that sun-dried tomatoes are relatively high in sodium - with over 500 milligrams per serving. If you're sensitive to salt or trying to follow a low-sodium diet, you may want to use them sparingly or look for low-sodium options.
Gluten-free
Need a gluten-free ingredient for your cooking? Sun-dried tomatoes are a great option! Because they're made from pure tomatoes and aren't mixed with any flours or other binders, they're naturally gluten-free. Of course, you'll still want to check the label of any sun-dried tomato products you buy to make sure they haven't been processed or packaged in a facility that also handles gluten-containing ingredients. But in general, sun-dried tomatoes are a safe option for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Versatile ingredient for a variety of dishes
One of the great things about sun-dried tomatoes is how versatile they are in the kitchen. They can be used in a variety of dishes and cuisines, from Italian pasta dishes to Greek salads to Middle Eastern stews. One of the most popular ways to use sun-dried tomatoes is to rehydrate them by soaking them in hot water or olive oil. This softens them up and can make them easier to chop or blend into sauces or spreads.
Easy to store and use
Another great thing about sun-dried tomatoes is how easy they are to store and use. Whether you buy them pre-packaged or make them at home, they can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for several months. When you're ready to use them, simply rehydrate them (if necessary) and add them to your dish. They're a great way to add flavor and nutrition to home-cooked meals.
A great source of antioxidants
In addition to their vitamin and mineral content, sun-dried tomatoes are also a great source of antioxidants. These are compounds that protect the body from damage and inflammation, and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. One study found that sun-dried tomatoes contained high levels of lycopene, a type of antioxidant that's been shown to have protective effects against prostate cancer. Other research has suggested that consuming lycopene-rich foods like sun-dried tomatoes may also help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
May help reduce risk of chronic diseases
In addition to their antioxidant content, sun-dried tomatoes may also have other health benefits. Some research has suggested that they could help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. For example, one study found that sun-dried tomatoes were effective at suppressing the growth of colon cancer cells in a petri dish. Another study in humans found that consuming a lycopene-rich diet (of which sun-dried tomatoes are a great source) was associated with a reduced risk of heart disease.
Can be made at home
While you can certainly buy sun-dried tomatoes at the store, they're also quite easy to make at home. All you need are some fresh tomatoes, olive oil, and a dehydrator or an oven. To make sun-dried tomatoes in the oven, simply slice your tomatoes and lay them out on a greased baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, then roast them in the oven at 200-225°F for several hours, until they're shrunken and slightly chewy.
Possible side effects
While sun-dried tomatoes are generally safe for most people, there are a few potential side effects to be aware of. For example, some people may experience digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, or diarrhea if they eat too many sun-dried tomatoes at once. Additionally, people who are allergic to tomatoes may experience an allergic reaction if they eat sun-dried tomatoes. This can manifest as symptoms like hives, itching, or swelling. Overall, though, most people can enjoy sun-dried tomatoes in moderation as a healthy and flavorful addition to their diet.
"Sun-dried tomatoes make a tasty and nutritious addition to all sorts of dishes, from soups and stews to pizzas and pastas."
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Sun-Dried Tomatoes
1. What are sun-dried tomatoes?
Sun-dried tomatoes are ripened tomatoes that have been sliced and dried in the sun or through artificial means to remove most of their moisture content. This results in a flavorful, dense, and chewy texture.
2. Are sun-dried tomatoes good for you?
Sun-dried tomatoes are a good source of vitamins C, K, and A, as well as dietary fiber, iron, and antioxidants. They are also low in calories, making them a healthy addition to your diet.
3. How can I use sun-dried tomatoes in cooking?
Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet, tangy, and intense flavor to pasta dishes, salads, pizzas, bread, sandwiches, and dips. They can be used as a condiment, garnish, or main ingredient. You can also rehydrate them in warm water or oil before using them in your recipe.
4. How long do sun-dried tomatoes last?
Unopened sun-dried tomatoes can last up to a year when stored in a cool, dry, and dark place. Once opened, they should be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to a month.
5. Where can I buy sun-dried tomatoes?
Sun-dried tomatoes can be found in most grocery stores, health food stores, and online retailers. They are available in different forms, such as as whole, sliced, julienned, or packed in oil, so choose the one that best suits your needs.