Cherry Tomatoes from my Garden

Because of some of the poisonous members of the nightshade family, it is not surprising that people were once afraid to eat tomatoes. They were considered inedible and poisonous in the United States until the 1800s. Vine-ripened tomatoes have a much better flavor and texture, compared with typical supermarket tomatoes that are picked green. Tomatoes that ripen on the vine are superior because of a natural hormone called ethylene that is produced by the plant. They also contain a high level of anti-oxidants. Interesting facts: Tomatoes should be stored in room temperature as a whole but cut ones should be wrapped in plastic or in an air-tight container and refrigerated. Eggplants belong to the same family (nightshade) as the tomatoes.