UNITED STATES—It’s a debate that has been ongoing for decades. Is the tomato a fruit or vegetable? By all accounts it has been deemed a fruit, but in my opinion, the tomato is not sweet enough to be classified as a fruit. In my opinion, it’s a vegetable. However, of all the fruits and vegetables out there, the tomato is perhaps the most versatile. The fact that it can be used for so many dishes and items makes it amazing.
To ensure the shelf-life of the fruit, it’s believed to keep it at room temperature, I beg to differ. The tomato is best refrigerated in my opinion. It’s loaded with seeds that can be eaten if desired, but as I’ve become older the seeds are a bit of a pest in my opinion. I prefer to slice and dish the fruit without the seeds in tact.
The tomato has been known to help in fight against cancers, as well as lowering cardiovascular disease and in some cases combat against type II diabetes. The fruit is a big source of water, as well as vitamin A, C and K. Phosphorus, potassium and lycopene are other vital nutrients the fruit provides to the body.
Tomatoes are used in salads and sandwiches, soups, stews and various sauces. The fruit can even be stuffed depending on the cuisine. Spaghetti, chili, chicken parmesan, are just some of the dishes that utilize the tomato as a staple ingredient. The fruit/veggie is highly acidic which explains why it’s notably used as a vegetable when it comes to cooking as its borders more a savory taste vs. sweet.
By LaDale Anderson
