How Many Calories Are in a Tomato? Complete Nutrition & Calorie Guide

A standard medium-sized raw tomato (123g) contains approximately 22 calories. The calorie count varies slightly by size and variety: a single cherry tomato has about 3 calories, while a large beefsteak tomato contains around 33 calories. Because tomatoes are 95% water, they are considered a low-energy-density food perfect for weight loss.

When you are tracking your daily intake or simply trying to make healthier food choices, one question often pops up in the produce aisle: how many calories in a tomato?

The short answer is that tomatoes are incredibly low in calories. A standard medium-sized raw tomato (approximately 123g) contains only about 22 calories.

However, the exact calorie count can vary depending on the size, the specific variety (such as Roma, cherry, or grape), and—most importantly—how it is prepared. While a raw tomato is a diet-friendly staple, a bowl of creamy tomato soup or a slice of tomato-topped pizza tells a different nutritional story.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about tomato calories, from the tiniest grape tomato to hearty beefsteaks, and how this vibrant fruit (culinarily treated as a vegetable) fits into a weight-loss diet.

Calories in Tomatoes by Size (Raw)

When calculating how many calories are in a tomato, size is the most significant variable. Tomatoes are primarily composed of water (about 95%), which keeps their energy density very low. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect based on the physical size of the fruit.

1 Medium Tomato Calories

The medium tomato is the standard unit of measurement for most recipes and snack logs. If you pick up a typical round tomato at the grocery store—roughly the size of a tennis ball or a baseball—you are looking at a “medium” tomato.

• Weight: ~123 grams
• Calories: ~22 calories

So, how many calories in a tomato medium size? Just over 20. This makes it one of the most volume-efficient foods you can eat. You would have to eat nearly five medium tomatoes to equal the calorie count of a single medium banana. 

How many calories in one tomato of this size is negligible for most diets, which is why many diet plans consider non-starchy vegetables like tomatoes to be “free foods.

Calories in 1 Large Tomato

Large tomatoes, often referred to as Beefsteak tomatoes, are the heavy hitters used for burger toppings and thick slices. These can range significantly in weight, but a standard large tomato is roughly 3 inches in diameter.

• Weight: ~182 grams
• Calories: ~33 calories

If you are wondering calories in 1 large tomato or how many calories in a large tomato, the count remains low despite the increased bulk. Even a massive tomato weighing over 200g will rarely exceed 40–45 calories. 

This low calorie-to-volume ratio makes large tomatoes excellent for stuffing with tuna, chicken salad, or quinoa.

Calories in a Small Tomato

Small garden tomatoes or “salad tomatoes” are slightly larger than cherry varieties but smaller than the standard medium.

• Weight: ~91 grams
• Calories: ~16 calories

When asking how many calories in a tomato small size, you are dealing with a minuscule amount of energy. It is roughly equivalent to chewing a single piece of sugar-free gum.

Calories in a Tomato Slice

For sandwich lovers and burger enthusiasts, the whole fruit count might not be necessary. You just need to know the impact of that single red ring on your lunch.

• Weight: ~20 grams (thin to medium slice)
• Calories: ~3–4 calories

How many calories in a slice of tomato? Almost none. If you add three slices to a sandwich, you are adding roughly 10–12 calories total. This is why how many calories in a tomato slice is rarely a concern for calorie counting, even on strict deficits. It adds moisture, flavor, and texture for virtually zero metabolic cost.

Calories in Tomatoes by Type

Not all tomatoes are created equal. While the differences are subtle, the sugar concentration in smaller varieties can lead to slightly higher calorie counts per gram compared to larger, water-heavy varieties. Here is the data on how many calories in tomato varieties common in supermarkets.

Calories in Roma Tomatoes

Roma tomatoes, also known as plum tomatoes, are denser and have lower water content than standard round tomatoes. They are the preferred choice for sauces and canning because of their meaty texture.

• Weight: ~62 grams (one medium Roma)
• Calories: ~11 calories

How many calories in a roma tomato? A single Roma has about half the calories of a medium round tomato simply because it is physically smaller. How many calories are in a roma tomato per 100g is fairly consistent with other types, but because they have fewer seeds and less water gel, they are very nutrient-dense.

If you are cooking a sauce and using five or six of them, how many calories in one roma tomato multiplied by six is still only ~66 calories—a fantastic base for a low-calorie pasta sauce. How many calories in roma tomato paste or puree will be higher due to concentration, but the raw fruit is very light.

Calories in Cherry Tomatoes

Cherry tomatoes are sweet, pop-in-your-mouth snacks. Their higher sugar content (which gives them that burst of flavor) means they are slightly more calorie-dense by weight than large tomatoes, but the difference is marginal.

• Weight: ~17 grams (one cherry tomato)
• Calories: ~3 calories

How many calories in a cherry tomato? Three calories per fruit. How many calories are in a cherry tomato cup (approx 149g)? That would be roughly 27 calories.

When snacking on how many calories in cherry tomatoes, it is easy to eat a whole pint. Even then, a full pint container is usually under 100 calories, making it a far superior snack to pretzels or chips.

Calories in Grape Tomatoes

Grape tomatoes are oblong, tougher-skinned, and often sweeter than cherry tomatoes. They hold up better in lunchboxes and salads.

• Weight: ~10 grams (one grape tomato)
• Calories: ~2 calories

How many calories in a grape tomato? About 2. You can eat 50 of them and barely hit 100 calories.

Calories in Tomatoes on the Vine

“Tomatoes on the vine” are typically sold attached to the stem to preserve freshness and aroma. They are generally medium-sized, round tomatoes.

• Weight: ~123 grams
• Calories: ~22 calories

How many calories in a tomato on the vine is identical to the standard medium tomato. The vine attachment is aesthetic and aromatic; it does not alter the nutritional macro-profile of the fruit itself.

Calories in Tomatoes per 100g (Standard Reference)

For those weighing their food for precision (such as bodybuilders or researchers), the standard 100-gram measurement is the most accurate way to track calories in tomato 100g.

Nutritional Breakdown per 100g of Ripe, Red Tomato:

• Calories: 18 kcal
• Water: 95%
• Protein: 0.9 g
• Carbs: 3.9 g
• Sugar: 2.6 g
• Fiber: 1.2 g
• Fat: 0.2 g

When looking at calories in a tomato from a scientific perspective, it is clear that they are primarily water and carbohydrates. The 18 kcal count is remarkably low, classifying tomatoes as a low-energy-density food.

Tomato Nutrition Facts & Label Breakdown

Beyond just how many calories does a tomato have, it is vital to understand the micronutrients and macros that make up those calories.

Tomato Nutrition Label Explained

If a raw tomato came with a Tomato nutrition label, it would look impressive not for what it has, but for what it lacks:

• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: ~5mg (naturally extremely low)
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g

However, it is rich in Vitamin C (providing about 28% of the Daily Value per medium fruit), Potassium, Folate, and Vitamin K.

How Many Carbs in a Tomato?

How many carbs in a tomato? A medium tomato contains approximately 4.8 grams of carbohydrates.

Of these carbs, roughly 1.5 grams come from fiber and roughly 3.2 grams come from naturally occurring sugars (glucose and fructose).

Are tomatoes good or bad carbs?

They are considered “good” carbs. Because the glycemic index (GI) of tomatoes is low (less than 15), they release sugar into the bloodstream very slowly. They do not cause the insulin spikes associated with processed “bad” carbs like white bread or sugary drinks.

How Much Protein Is in a Tomato?

Tomatoes are not a significant source of protein.

How much protein in a tomato? A medium tomato has roughly 1 gram of protein.

If you are looking to build muscle, tomatoes act as a support mechanism—providing the vitamins and hydration your body needs to function—rather than a primary building block.

Calories in Tomato-Based Foods & Dishes

This is where the numbers change drastically. How many calories is a tomato has changes the moment you cook, blend, or process it with other ingredients.

Calories in Tomato Soup

Tomato soup is a comfort food classic, but it is a caloric wildcard.

How many calories in tomato soup? It depends entirely on the base (water vs. cream).

• Standard Canned Tomato Soup (made with water): ~70–90 calories per cup.
• Cream of Tomato Soup (Bisque): ~280–400 calories per cup.

How many calories does tomato soup have when served at a restaurant? Assume it is closer to the higher end due to added butter and heavy cream.

How many calories in a can of tomato soup (standard 10.75 oz condensed can)? If eaten the whole can prepared with water, it is about 200–230 calories. If prepared with whole milk, that number jumps to over 400.

How many calories in a tomato soup bowl? A large restaurant bowl can easily exceed 500 calories if it is a rich bisque served with croutons or cheese.

Calories in Tomato Sauce

How many calories in a tomato sauce for pasta?

• Marinara (Basic): ~60–90 calories per ½ cup.
• Tomato Basil (Jarred): ~80–100 calories per ½ cup (often has added oil/sugar).
• Vodka Sauce (Cream/Tomato mix): ~180–220 calories per ½ cup.

Plain tomato sauce is very diet-friendly, but always check the label for added sugars, which are common in cheaper brands to neutralize acidity.

Calories in Pasta With Tomato Sauce

How many calories in pasta with tomato sauce?

A standard serving of cooked pasta (1 cup, ~200 calories) plus ½ cup of marinara sauce (~70 calories) brings a simple bowl to roughly 270–300 calories. This is a relatively low-calorie meal, provided you measure the pasta portion correctly.

Calories in Tomato Meals & Snacks

Calories in a Tomato Salad

A classic tomato salad often involves oil, which drives up the energy density.

How many calories in a tomato salad (Caprese style)?

• 1 Medium Tomato: 22 cal
• 1 oz Fresh Mozzarella: 85 cal
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil: 120 cal
• Balsamic Glaze: 20 cal
• Total: ~247 calories.

While healthy, the oil makes it calorie-dense. A simple cucumber and tomato salad with vinegar and no oil might only be 50 calories total.

Calories in a Tomato Sandwich

How many calories in a tomato sandwich? A Southern classic involving white bread, mayo, and tomato.

• 2 Slices White Bread: 150 cal
• 1 tbsp Mayonnaise: 90 cal
• 1 Medium Tomato (sliced): 22 cal
• Total: ~262 calories.

Calories in Tomato Wraps

How many calories in a tomato wrap (the tortilla itself)?

Many tortillas are flavored with tomato powder and colored red.

How many calories in a tomato basil wrap? A large 10-inch flour tortilla flavored with tomato basil is typically 210–220 calories. The “tomato” aspect is usually negligible regarding nutrition; it is primarily a flour carbohydrate product.

Calories in Tomatoes – Comparison Chart

To help you visualize the calories in tomatoes chart data, here is a quick reference guide comparing types and preparations.

Note: Sun-dried tomatoes have a much higher calorie count because the water has been removed, concentrating the sugars and carbohydrates.

Are Tomatoes Healthy for Weight Loss?

Are tomatoes healthy for weight loss? Yes, they are arguably one of the best foods for weight loss. Here is why:

1. Low Calorie Density: You can eat a massive volume of tomatoes without consuming many calories. This triggers the stretch receptors in your stomach, signaling fullness.
2. High Water Content: Being 95% water, tomatoes help with hydration, which is often mistaken for hunger.
3. Fiber: While not fiber “powerhouses,” they do provide fiber which slows digestion and stabilizes blood sugar.
4. Appetite Control: The combination of water and fiber helps suppress appetite.

Best ways to eat tomatoes when dieting:

• Raw as a snack (cherry tomatoes).
• Sliced with salt and pepper to curb savory cravings.
• Roasted without oil (use parchment paper) to deepen the flavor without adding fat calories.
• Added to soups to increase volume without increasing calories significantly.

Tomato vs Other Vegetables (Calorie Comparison)

How does the tomato stack up against the competition in the salad bowl?

Is Tomato Healthier Than Cucumber?

Is tomato healthier than cucumber?

Both are excellent, but they serve different purposes.

• Calories: Cucumber is slightly lower in calories (~15 per 100g vs 18 for tomato).
• Nutrients: Tomatoes are significantly higher in vitamins (A, C) and the antioxidant lycopene. Cucumbers are mostly water and offer less micronutrient density.
• Verdict: For pure calorie cutting, the cucumber wins marginally. For nutrition and health benefits, tomato wins.

Which Vegetable Is Lowest in Calories?

Which vegetable is lowest in calories?

While tomatoes are low, leafy greens and water-heavy stalks are lower.

Here is a comparison per 100g:

• Spinach (Raw): 23 cal
• Tomato: 18 cal
• Zucchini: 17 cal
• Cucumber: 15 cal
• Celery: 14 cal
• Iceberg Lettuce: 14 cal

Tomatoes sit comfortably in the “ultra-low” tier, making them functionally identical to celery or cucumber for weight loss purposes.

Are Tomatoes Good or Bad Carbs?

In the era of Keto and Atkins, the question Are tomatoes good or bad carbs? is common.

The Verdict: Good Carbs.

1. Glycemic Index (GI): Tomatoes have a GI of roughly 15 (very low). They do not spike blood sugar.
2. Net Carbs: A medium tomato has roughly 3g of net carbs.
3. Keto Suitability: Can you eat tomatoes on Keto? Yes, in moderation. While they are higher in carbs than leafy greens, the carb count is low enough that ¼ cup of diced tomatoes or a few cherry tomatoes fits easily into a standard 20g–50g daily carb limit.

Tomatoes are “bad carbs” only if you are consuming them in the form of sweetened ketchup or sugar-loaded pasta sauces.

FAQs – Quick Answers

How many calories are in one tomato?

A standard medium tomato has approximately 22 calories.

How many calories are in a cherry tomato?

One cherry tomato has about 3 calories. A cup contains about 27 calories.

How many calories are in tomato soup?

It ranges from 80 calories (water-based) to 400+ calories (cream-based) per cup. Always check if it is a “bisque” or “creamy” variety.

Do tomatoes have carbs?

Yes, but very few. A medium tomato has about 5 grams of total carbs and 3 grams of net carbs.

Are tomatoes fattening?

No. It is virtually impossible to gain fat from eating raw tomatoes due to their low calorie density and high water content. They are a weight-loss friendly food.

Final Takeaway – Are Tomatoes Low-Calorie & Healthy?

When you ask how many calories in a tomato, the answer is delightfully low. Whether you are eating a handful of cherry tomatoes (27 cal), a sliced medium tomato on a burger (22 cal), or a Roma tomato in a salad (11 cal), you are consuming a high-volume, nutrient-rich food that supports weight management.

The danger lies not in the tomato itself, but in the company it keeps—creamy soups, oily salads, and cheesy pizzas. To maximize the health benefits:

• Stick to raw, steamed, or roasted tomatoes with minimal oil.
• Use tomato-based salsas as low-calorie dressings.
• Enjoy them whole to benefit from the fiber and water content.

Tomatoes are not just safe for your waistline; they are a powerhouse of nutrition that should be a staple in any balanced diet.

References

• USDA FoodData Central: Tomatoes, red, ripe, raw, year round average (FDC ID: 170457)
• WebMD: Health Benefits of Tomatoes
• Verywell Fit: Tomato Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits
• Medical News Today: Tomatoes: Benefits, facts, and research
• Healthline: Tomatoes 101 – Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits