Is there anything better than fresh tomatoes keeping company with basil and garlic? What’s not to love?

Tomatoes are a rich source of antioxidants including vitamin C and beta carotene. They have a very good amount of the mineral manganese and a good amount of vitamin E.

Garlic is a member of the lily or Allium family, which also includes onions and leeks. It is rich in powerful sulfur-containing compounds which are responsible for its pungent fragrance and the source of it’s many health benefits. Letting raw garlic mingle with acidic foods like tomatoes increases the release of available sulfur-containing compounds. Garlic is an excellent source of manganese and vitamin B6, a very good source of vitamin C, and a good source of selenium.

Olive oil is a good fat. It is an excellent source of monounsaturated fat and the health benefits include; reducing cancers, lowering blood pressure and reducing cardiovascular disease.

Basil is a delicious anti-inflammatory, an excellent source of vitamin K and manganese, a very good source of copper and vitamin C, and a good source of calcium, iron, folate and omega-3 fatty acids.

What’s your favorite tomato recipe?

Here’s a quick step recipe for a bruschetta topping.