Tempting tomatoes: nature's source of lycopene.(Food: easy and healthful recipes)

For years, scientists have understood the benefits of lycopene-rich tomatoes for the prevention of prostate cancer. In the December 1995 issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Edward Giovannucci, MD, reported that men who are 10 or more servings of tomato-based foods per week had a 35 percent reduction in the incidence of prostate cancer compared to men who are fewer servings.

More recently, a study published in the November 2003 issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that rats fed whole tomato powder had a lower risk of death from prostate cancer than rats fed synthetic lycopene or rats on restricted diets--most likely because tomatoes contain other phytochemicals that enhance the efficacy of lycopene. So it may be wise to choose supplements containing a natural tomato complex rather than synthetic lycopene. Or, try out some of these tempting tomato recipes.

Capellini-Tomato Pie

SERVES 8 TO 10

Pasta pies can be heavy, but this recipe, using cabbage leaves, not only cuts carbohydrates, it enhances the flavor of the tomatoes. The flavor improves overnight, so the pie is best served the following day at room temperature.

 
1 Tbs. breadcrumbs 
8 oz. capellini or other thin, 
  spaghetti-like pasta 
6 large outer leaves of savoy 
  cabbage, or more if needed 
2 cups chopped tomatoes plus 
  1 large tomato 
30 black olives, chopped 
1 Tbs. large capers 
1 tsp. minced garlic 
1 Tbs. olive oil 
2 Tbs. fresh sweet basil, minced 
Black pepper to taste 
1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan 
  cheese 
Minced parsley for garnish 

1. Preheat oven to 350F. Spray a deep 10-inch pie plate with non slick cooking spray, and dust with breadcrumbs.