By sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)
Tomatoes are in season so why not enjoy them whilst they are at their best and stock up for the winter months ahead too with this fertility-friendly tomato sauce recipe- a nutritious and delicious base for many dishes.
Rich in lycopene (an antioxidant), Vitamin A, Chromium, fibre and Vitamin C, tomatoes are in the nightshade family of plants (which also includes potatoes, sweet and hot peppers, aubergine, tomatillos, tamarios, pepinos, pimentos, paprika, and cayenne). According to studies, lycopene helps male fertility and when tomatoes are cooked, more lycopene is released.
Easy Homemade Tomato Sauce (serves 6)
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
1 small carrot finely chopped
1 small stick of celery, including the green tops, finely chopped
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 clove garlic, crushed
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
2lb fresh tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and chopped
1 teaspoon tomato paste
Splash of water (if required)
Pinch of Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 red chilli (optional)
To make:
Cook the garlic, parsley, celery, onion, and carrot gently with the olive oil in a large pan over a medium heat. Stir well. When the veggies are softened and cooked through, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring regularly. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, salt and pepper (and chilli). Lower the heat, and simmer, uncovered, for about 15 minutes, or until thickened. Why not double up the ingredients and freeze some? Enjoy!
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