Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Tomato vs Zucchini: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Tomato is generally healthier

Tomato comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (18 vs 21), more fiber (1.2g vs 1g), less sodium (5mg vs 10mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Tomato

18 kcal

More Protein

Zucchini

1.5g

More Fiber

Tomato

1.2g

Less Sugar

Zucchini

1.2g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Tomato
18
Zucchini
21
Proteinper 100g
Tomato
0.9g
Zucchini
1.5g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Tomato
4g
Zucchini
4g
Fatper 100g
Tomato
0.2g
Zucchini
0.4g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientTomatoZucchiniDifference
Calories18kcal21kcal-3.0kcal
Protein0.9g1.5g-0.6g
Carbohydrates4g4g0.0g
Fat0.2g0.4g-0.2g
Fiber1.2g1g+0.2g
Sugar2.6g1.2g+1.4g
Sodium5mg10mg-5.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Tomato

Per 100g:18 calories
Per cup (150g):27 calories
Per serving (85g):15 calories

Zucchini

Per 100g:21 calories
Per cup (150g):32 calories
Per serving (85g):18 calories

Diet Compatibility

Tomato

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Zucchini

Low-CarbLow-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Tomato

  • Lower in calories (18 vs 21)
  • More fiber (1.2g vs 1g)
  • Lower in carbs (4g vs 4g)
  • Lower sodium (5mg vs 10mg)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Tomato nutrition →

When to Choose Zucchini

  • Higher in protein (1.5g vs 0.9g)
  • Less sugar (1.2g vs 2.6g)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Zucchini nutrition →

Tomato vs Zucchini: Nutritional Analysis

Zucchini is more calorie-dense at 21 calories per 100g compared to 18 for Tomato, a difference of 3 calories. On the protein front, Zucchini delivers more with 1.5g per 100g versus 0.9g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Tomato and Zucchini tell different nutritional stories. Tomato provides 4g of carbohydrates, 0.2g of fat, and 1.2g of fiber per 100g, while Zucchini contains 4g carbs, 0.4g fat, and 1g fiber. The higher fiber content in Tomato supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Tomato contains 2.6g while Zucchini has 1.2g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Tomato is the lower-calorie choice at 18 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Zucchini provides more protein (1.5g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Tomato offers more fiber (1.2g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Tomato or Zucchini?

Zucchini has more calories with 21 kcal per 100g, compared to Tomato with 18 kcal. That's a difference of 3 calories per 100g serving.

Is Tomato healthier than Zucchini?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Tomato is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Tomato has 18 calories, 0.9g protein, and 1.2g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Tomato and Zucchini?

Zucchini has more protein with 1.5g per 100g, compared to Tomato with 0.9g. Zucchini provides 0.6g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Tomato or Zucchini?

For weight loss, Tomato is the better choice with only 18 calories per 100g compared to 21 calories in Zucchini. Tomato also offers 1.2g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Tomato or Zucchini have fewer carbs?

Tomato and Zucchini have the same carbohydrate content at 4g per 100g.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.