Roasted Tomato Vinaigrette

Summer produce is in full swing which means that it is a great time of year for tomatoes.  Tomatoes are a great source of antioxidants, including lycopene. Researchers have recently found an important connection between lycopene and bone health.  Lycopene acts to decrease oxidative stress and osteoporosis risk by decreasing bone resorption.  It has also been suggested that the lycopene in tomatoes may protect your heart by helping to regulate blood pressure, inhibiting the enzyme responsible for making cholesterol, and having anti-inflammatory effects.  One more well known benefit of lycopene is for its protection against certain cancers such as prostate cancer.

Around 85% of our dietary lycopene comes from tomatoes so lets get eating shall we!  Roasting tomatoes is not only a great way to increase the nutrient availability but also help brings out the sweetness.  Tomatoes are technically a fruit after all.

I must admit that I am not a huge fan of raw tomatoes.  I can enjoy them if hidden in a salad or cooked into a sauce but you won’t find me popping cherry tomatoes as a snack.  I have to find other delicious ways to incorporate these healthy fruits into my diet and this roasted tomato vinaigrette is definitely one of those ways.  With only 7 ingredients this vinaigrette is not only healthy, but super easy to make.  When staying clear of processed foods making your own salad dressing is definitely an easy and cheaper swap out I recommend to everyone.  Homemade dressing is an easy first step into a real food lifestyle.

What is your favorite way to eat tomatoes?  Let me know in the comments.