The benefits of Lycopene – that antioxidant found in tomatoes…

Another tomato based meal. That’s not so bad considering all the health benefits we get from tomatoes and I specifically refer to the lycopene content in this bright, red fruit.

Our bodies are constantly undergoing oxidative stress and to combat that stress we need to have a healthy antioxidant and immune response system.

Pigment in brightly colored produce such as tomatoes, watermelon, grapefruits, and papaya with red flesh contain healthy amounts. Lycopene activates our immune system and allows it to promote genes that trigger key enzymes protecting against the environment, inflammation and oxidative stress. Source: NutritionalOutlook

One more BIG advantage of tomatoes: They are ALL NATURAL!

Orzo and Tomato Soup by Carla Vavala and found in her cookbook

Fusion of Food and Friends

FOFF Orzo and Tomato Soup1

  • 2 TBS olive oil
  • 1/2 large onion
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 large carrot, peel and chopped
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 28 oz chopped tomatoes with Italian seasoning
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable stock
  • salt to taste
  • 1 jar roasted red peppers, drained then chopped
  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1/2 cup half and half (I used fat free)
  • 1 TBS fresh basil

In a large pot, heat the oil and add the onion, celery and carrot. Cook on medium high and stir until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the garlic and cook another 2 minutes. Stir in pepper, tomatoes and simmer 15 minutes.

Add the vegetable stock and simmer another 5 – 10 minutes. Season with salt.

Add the roasted peppers and orzo. Simmer 10 minutes but make sure to stir because the orzo will clump .

Remove from heat, stir in cream and serve with fresh basil.

FOFF Orzo and Tomato Soup3

BAM!  What flavor!

FOFF Orzo and Tomato Soup2

Add your favorite protein such as fish or chicken on the side and this is one perfect meal.

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