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DID YOU KNOW?

California’s Central Valley is one of the leading tomato-producing regions in the United States, supplying nearly half of the country’s tomatoes.

FEATURED CROP

California Grown Tomatoes

Bursting with sweetness and acidity, vine-ripened tomatoes from the San Joaquin Valley are a summer favorite for salads, sauces, and sandwiches.

Videos from the Cooking Classes

Corn Bread
Panzanella

Prep TIme: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Cheesy
Tomato Pasta

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

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Varieties

Early Girl, Beefsteak and San Marzano excel in the Valley’s hot growing season.

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Prep Tips

Enjoy fresh in salads, roast for intense flavor or cook down for sauces. Store at room temperature.

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Nutrition

Rich in lycopene for heart and skin health. Excellent source of vitamins C and K with potent antioxidant benefits.

Cultivation

California tomatoes thrive in the Central Valley’s fertile, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Seeds are started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost and transplanted once the soil warms. They need full sun and consistent moisture, often delivered via drip irrigation. The hot, dry summers and cool nights enhance their flavor. Harvest begins in late spring and continues through early fall when tomatoes are fully ripe.

Where to Buy

In Central California, tomatoes are typically available from late spring through early fall, with peak season in the summer months. The region’s hot, dry summers and cool nights create ideal growing conditions, resulting in tomatoes that are flavorful and sweet. You can find fresh, locally grown tomatoes at farmers markets and grocery stores from May to October. Consistent warm temperatures ensure a bountiful and high-quality harvest. For the best quality, choose tomatoes that are firm and vibrant in color.

Nutritional Value

Tomatoes are rich in vitamins C, K and A, along with essential minerals like potassium and folate. They contain antioxidants, including lycopene, which supports heart health and may reduce cancer risk. A 1-cup serving of raw tomatoes has about 32 calories and 2 grams of fiber, making them a nutritious, low-calorie addition to meals.

How to Store

Store tomatoes at room temperature away from direct sunlight until fully ripe. Once ripe, refrigerate them to prolong shelf life and maintain flavor. Avoid storing tomatoes in plastic bags or containers that can trap moisture, as this can lead to spoilage. For best taste and texture, consume ripe tomatoes within a few days of refrigeration. Tomatoes can also be frozen after blanching and peeling for use in sauces and soups during off-season months.

CALIFORNIA FRESH FARMERS MARKET ASSOCIATION

8839 N. Cedar Ave Fresno CA 93720

©2025 by CFFMA

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