Tomatoes: What are their benefits?

400 g ripe tomatoes (about 3 large or 5 medium)

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (15 ml)

1 small garlic clove

A pinch of fine salt (about 1 g)

A pinch of ground black pepper

A few fresh basil leaves (optional)

Preparation

• Wash the tomatoes thoroughly, then cut them into even wedges.
• Peel the garlic clove and lightly rub it over the bottom of a skillet or sauté pan.
• Heat the olive oil over low heat, without letting it smoke.
• Add the tomatoes and warm them gently for about 5 minutes, stirring carefully, until they are heated through but still firm.
• Season with salt and pepper, then remove from heat.
• Serve immediately, optionally topped with finely sliced basil leaves.

Nutrition Tip

Gentle cooking combined with olive oil helps improve lycopene absorption while preserving the tomato’s flavor and benefits. This dish fits perfectly into a balanced diet, either as a side or a light starter.

Simple, accessible, and generous, the tomato proves that an everyday food can do a lot of good—without ever overdoing it.