Diced Tomatoes Nutrition Facts

Additional Information

Diced tomatoes are a staple in many kitchens, valued for their versatility, flavor, and nutritional benefits. Whether you’re making a hearty pasta sauce, a refreshing salsa, or a savory stew, diced tomatoes can enhance your dishes with their vibrant flavor and juicy texture. In this article, we will explore the features, benefits, and drawbacks of diced tomatoes and why they are a popular choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike.

Features of diced tomatoes

Diced tomatoes are prepared by cutting fresh tomatoes into small, uniform pieces before canning. This process helps the tomatoes retain their shape and texture, making them an ideal ingredient for a variety of recipes. Unlike whole or crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes offer a balance of texture and convenience. They are packed in their own juices, which enhances their flavor and juiciness.

Nutritional benefits

In addition to adding flavor and texture to your meals, diced tomatoes provide several important nutritional benefits. Here are some of the key nutrients found in diced tomatoes:

1. Dietary Fiber: Diced tomatoes are a good source of fiber, with 3.6 grams per serving. Fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system and promoting regular bowel movements.
2. Vitamins and minerals: Diced tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision, while vitamin C supports immune function and acts as an antioxidant. Diced tomatoes also contain potassium, which is important for maintaining proper heart and muscle function.
3. Lycopene: Diced tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red color. Lycopene has been linked to several health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain types of cancer and promoting heart health.
4. Low in calories and fat: Diced tomatoes are low in calories and fat, making them a great addition to a balanced diet. With just 30 calories and 0.5 grams of fat per serving, diced tomatoes can be enjoyed guilt-free.

Benefits of using diced tomatoes

1. Convenience: Diced tomatoes are conveniently packaged in cans for year-round convenience. They eliminate the need for tedious chopping and can be used straight from the can, saving time in the kitchen.
2. Flavor enhancement: Diced tomatoes add a burst of fresh, tangy flavor to a variety of dishes. The combination of their natural sweetness and acidity can enhance the flavor of soups, stews, sauces and more.
3. Versatility: Diced tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of recipes. From classic Italian dishes like pasta sauces and pizzas to Mexican favorites like salsas and chili, diced tomatoes can elevate the flavor profile of countless dishes.

Downsides to consider

While diced tomatoes offer numerous benefits, it’s important to consider a few drawbacks:

1. Sodium content: Canned diced tomatoes often contain added salt for preservation. If you are on a low-sodium diet, you may need to look for low-sodium or no added salt options, or rinse the tomatoes before use to reduce the sodium content.
2. Packaging: Diced tomatoes typically come in cans, which may contain a lining made with bisphenol A (BPA). BPA has been linked to potential health risks, although many manufacturers now offer BPA-free canned products as an alternative.

Bottom line

Diced tomatoes are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can enhance the flavor and nutritional profile of your meals. With their convenience, flavor enhancement and wide range of culinary applications, diced tomatoes have earned a place in many kitchens. While it’s important to consider sodium content and potential packaging concerns, the benefits of using diced tomatoes outweigh these drawbacks for most people. So why not stock up on a few cans of diced tomatoes and explore the delicious possibilities they offer in your cooking?

Questions and Answers

What is the difference between diced and chopped tomatoes?

Diced tomatoes are chopped before canning and then treated with calcium chloride and citric acid to help the pieces hold their shape. As a result, they’re firmer than whole or crushed tomatoes, so even though you’d expect the smaller pieces to break down faster during cooking, the opposite actually happens!

Can diced tomatoes be substituted for other tomato products?

Yes, diced tomatoes can be substituted for a variety of tomato products, depending on the recipe. Some alternatives include fresh tomatoes, whole peeled tomatoes, tomato puree, tomato paste, tomato juice, tomato soup, canned tomatoes, or crushed tomatoes. Each substitution can change the texture and flavor of the dish, so it’s important to consider the specific requirements of your recipe.

How do I make diced tomatoes from fresh tomatoes?

To make diced tomatoes from fresh tomatoes, follow these steps:

Wash and seed the tomatoes.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

Drop the tomatoes into the boiling water for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the tomatoes to a bowl of ice water to cool.

Once the tomatoes have cooled, they are easy to peel.

After peeling, cut the tomatoes into small, even pieces to make diced tomatoes.

Can crushed tomatoes be used as a substitute for diced tomatoes?

Yes, crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute for diced tomatoes in many recipes. However, keep in mind that crushed tomatoes have a slightly different texture because they are a mixture of diced tomatoes and tomato puree or paste. If you choose to use crushed tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes, you may need to adjust the cooking time to allow for the breakdown of the larger tomato chunks.

Are diced tomatoes healthier than other tomato products?

Diced tomatoes offer similar nutritional benefits to other tomato products, such as fresh tomatoes, tomato paste, or crushed tomatoes. They are low in calories, fat, and sodium, while providing important vitamins, minerals, and fiber. However, specific health benefits may vary depending on the recipe and other ingredients used. It’s always a good idea to include a variety of tomato products and other fresh vegetables in your diet for optimal nutrition.