With the arrival of the warmer season, here's where the unmistakable scent of the tomato. Whether it is more unripe or more ripe, cherry or beef heart, raw, dried or pureed, the tomato always, almost, conquers all. But How do we choose the best ones?

La seasonality (a principle in which we at Bontà di Stagione strongly believe because we process each proposal following the time of the seasons) of tomatoes is from May-June to September-October and, in order to choose the best ones, it should always be respected both because sun-ripened products in their correct period turn out better and tastier and because the natural alternation of seasons ensures a healthier and more balanced diet.

La texture and color Are two more allies for grocery shopping! To be of quality, tomatoes, like the rest of the vegetables, must be firm without bruises and dark spots on the surface. Unless it is of the oxheart or camone variety, tomatoes should never be too green because that would mean they have not yet reached proper ripeness.

So when we are grocery shopping, it only takes small steps to choose the best tomatoes and thus savor its full flavor and benefit from all its valuable properties. According to Natural News there are at least Ten reasons why you should eat them frequently:

1) They keep the skin healthier
Rich in lycopene and anti-oxidants, tomatoes help protect the skin by helping it defend against ultraviolet rays and ward off wrinkles and signs of skin aging.

2) They make the bones stronger
Because of their high levels of calcium and vitamin K, tomatoes help make bones stronger. In addition, it has been shown that lycopene can be a valuable ally in fighting osteoporosis.

3) They prevent cancer
Tomatoes are also recommended for their benefits in cancer prevention due to the presence of lycopene, a natural antioxidant that slows the rate at which cancer cells grow.

4) They help sleep
There is also an improvement in sleep from the consumption of tomatoes because they also help to sleep better.

5) They improve eyesight
More tomatoes, less glasses! Vitamin A in tomatoes would in fact help improve eyesight.

6) They are good allies for the line
The tomato is a vegetable rich in nutrients that give the body a lot of energy but has very few calories and is rich in water. These properties make it a valuable ally for those who intend to be careful with their figure also because it helps curb appetite and its high fiber content makes it an effective remedy for constipation.

7) They protect the prostate
According to the studies and as reported by Natura News, prostate tumors grew much more slowly in rats that were fed tomatoes.

8) They are good for the heart
Tomatoes are good for the heart! Due to their high content of vitamin B, folic acid, niacin and potassium, they help reduce cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure.

9) They reduce the damage caused by smoking.
Tomatoes contain coumaric acid and chlorogenic acid, which help protect the body from carcinogens found in smoke.

10) They strengthen the immune system
Tomatoes are also rich in vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system.

We at Seasonal Goodness have developed many recipes with tomatoes. For summer, try the fresh and wholesome tomato velouté in a glass or the Italian-style gazpacho or the rustic tomato soup, thyme and rosemary in extra virgin olive oil: the typical tastes and scents of the smile season are best enhanced with a delicate extra virgin olive oil!