There’s a unique feeling of satisfaction that comes from enjoying farm-fresh produce at its peak, and nothing delivers that better than a sun-ripened summer tomato.

Although botanically classified as a fruit, since they develop from the flower of a plant and contain seeds, the U.S. Supreme Court legally deemed tomatoes a “vegetable” in 1893 (Nix v. Hedden). The case arose after the Tariff Act of 1883 placed a 10 percent import tax on vegetables but not fruits. When the Port Authority of New York taxed imported tomatoes as vegetables, produce merchant John Nix challenged the classification, arguing that tomatoes are fruits and should be exempt. The Court disagreed, ruling that in common usage, like in cooking, tomatoes are treated as vegetables, so the tax applied.

Sorry, Mr. Nix.

Fruit or vegetable, all of us at the DFM agree that tomatoes are the MVP of any summer meal. Bursting with vibrant flavor and naturally sweet, tomatoes are composed of 95 percent water, making them a surprisingly effective way to stay hydrated. But their benefits go far beyond keeping you refreshed. Tomatoes are low in calories, just 22 calories/medium tomato (123g), and are packed with nutrients that support overall health:

  • Vitamin C (28% Daily Value): Supporting the immune system and acting as a powerful antioxidant.
  • Vitamin A (20% DV): Promoting healthy skin and vision.
  • Vitamin K1 (10% DV): Playing a key role in blood clotting.
  • Potassium (6% DV): Helping regulate blood pressure and supporting muscle and heart function.
  • Folate (6% DV): Important for cell growth and tissue repair.
  • Tomatoes are also rich in antioxidants linked to reduced inflammation and lower risk of chronic diseases:
  • Lycopene: Known for its heart-protective and cancer-fighting potential, especially for prostate health.
  • Beta-carotene: A precursor to vitamin A with benefits for skin and eye health.
  • Naringenin and chlorogenic acid: Naturally occurring plant compounds that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

This weekend in The Shed, visit Heddin Family Farms, Kelley Produce, Pepperona Peppers, and Williams Garden to grab the following varieties: Cherokee Purple, Cherry, Grape, Mountain Spring, Phoenix, Plum, and The Purple Tomato.

Whether you slice them into a salad, blend them into a sauce, or eat them straight from The Shed, tomatoes are an easy way to add seasonally rich nutrition to your diet. Plus, when they’re from the DFM, you can be certain they’re fresh, flavorful, and well worth a spot on your summer plate.

A few tips: Store whole, ripe tomatoes at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. If you do refrigerate tomatoes, allow them to return to room temperature before enjoying.

 

After you have your tomato fill, stick around for July 4th Weekend Fun!

Saturday, July 5th

  • 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – Patriotic Kid’s Activity – Let the little ones get crafty with a red, white, and blue-themed project perfect for the holiday weekend.
  • 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. – Carter Blood Drive – Give back this Independence Day by donating blood and helping save lives in our community.
  • 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. – Dallas Animal Services  – Bring your pup dressed in their best patriotic fit, or adopt one with Dallas Animal Services! We will have a best dressed contest for the pups; winner will be announced at 12:30pm.
  • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Live Music – Enjoy acoustic vibes from Kate Short in Pearl St. Plaza.
  • 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. –  Liquid Chicken at the Main Stage in The Shed – Keep the party going with high-energy tunes from Liquid Chicken, bringing the summer soundtrack all day long!
  • 2:00 p.m. – Pet Parade – Meet at the front of The Shed to take a lap showing off your patriotic pet!
  • 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – 2 O’clock Tasting: Homemade Ketchup – Savor the season with a tasting of homemade ketchup made from locally grown tomatoes — a delicious twist on a classic favorite.

 

Sunday, July 6th

  • 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – 4th of July Kid’s Activity – Bring the kids for a fun and festive craft to celebrate the red, white, and blue!
  • 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Live Music – Brady Davis – Enjoy laid-back Sunday tunes with live acoustic music while you shop and snack.
  • 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. – 2 O’clock Tasting: Homemade Ketchup – Taste the season with a sample of homemade ketchup crafted from fresh, local tomatoes — a flavorful summer treat!
  • 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. – Open Mic at Pearl Street Plaza – Show off your talent or cheer on local performers during our open mic session — family friendly performances!

 

We can’t wait for you to join us for all the red, white, and blue beauty found at the Dallas Farmers Market. Come support local vendors, and enjoy live music and festive family-friendly fun, making this July 4th celebration one to remember.

And note: “Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit; wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.” (Miles Kington)