TOMATOES
Tomatoes are one of the most essential ingredients in Italian cooking. Here you’ll find everything you need to know—from varieties and seasonality to storage tips, Italian traditions, and delicious tomato recipes.
Quick Facts
Botanical Name
Solanum lycopersicum
Family
Solanaceae
Native To
Western South America
Peak Season
June to September, with the best flavor during the warmest summer months.
Italian Growing Regions
Campania, Puglia, Sicilia, Emilia-Romagna, Lazio, and Sardegna are among Italy’s most important tomato-growing regions.
Flavor
Sweet, savory, and gently acidic, with intensity and sweetness varying by variety.
Texture
Juicy and tender, ranging from firm and meaty to soft and succulent depending on the variety.
Best Uses
Sauces, pasta, pizza, bruschetta, salads, soups, baked dishes, preserves, and traditional Italian recipes.
Storage
Keep ripe tomatoes at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. Refrigerate only when very ripe and use soon after.
Learn About Tomatoes
Tomato Recipes
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