How Many Calories in Tomatillo? Nutrition Facts & Macros
100 grams of tomatillo has 32 calories
Protein 1g · Carbs 5.8g · Fat 1g
Tomatillo (Physalis philadelphica) is a small green fruit in a papery husk, essential to Mexican cuisine. At 32 calories per 100g, it provides 11.7mg vitamin C, 1.85mg niacin (12% DV), and 268mg potassium. With a tangy, citrusy flavor, tomatillos are the base for salsa verde and add brightness to countless dishes.
134 kJ · per 100g · Water: 91.63 g
Calorie Calculator: Tomatillo
100 g Tomatillo contains 32 kcal
Calories by Portion Size
| Portion | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 medium tomatillo (34g) | 11 kcal | 0.3g | 2g | 0.3g |
| ½ cup chopped (66g) | 21 kcal | 0.6g | 3.9g | 0.7g |
| 100 grams | 32 kcal | 1g | 5.8g | 1g |
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Tomatillo — Nutrition Facts
| Tomatillo | per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 32 kcal |
| Protein | 0.96 g |
| Fat | 1.02 g |
| Carbs | 5.84 g |
| Fiber | 1.9 g |
| Sugar | 3.93 g |
| Sodium | 1 mg |
| Potassium | 268 mg |
| Magnesium | 20 mg |
| Phosphorus | 39 mg |
| Vitamin C | 11.7 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.056 mg |
| Folate | 7 mcg |
| Water | 91.63 g |
Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC ID: 168566) · Data verified April 2026
Variations
Salsa verde (tomatillo sauce)
Salsa verde is the signature Mexican green sauce made from tomatillos, chili peppers (jalapeño or serrano), onion, garlic, and cilantro. Roasted versions have deeper, smokier flavor. Used on tacos, enchiladas, chilaquiles, eggs, and grilled meats. About 15-20 kcal per tablespoon. Much lower in sugar than tomato-based salsas.
Roasted tomatillo
Roasting (on a comal, under a broiler, or in a dry pan) transforms tomatillos — the tartness mellows, natural sugars caramelize, and a smoky depth emerges. Charred spots add complexity. Roasted tomatillos are softer and sweeter than raw, making them ideal for sauces that need body and warmth. Calories stay similar as no oil is needed.
Purple tomatillo
Purple tomatillos (Physalis ixocarpa) have purple-streaked skin and are sweeter and less tart than green varieties — closer to a fruity flavor. Slightly higher in anthocyanin antioxidants due to the purple pigment. Can be eaten raw like a fruit. Less common but increasingly available at farmers' markets. Similar calorie and macro profile to green tomatillos.
Dietary Perspectives
For Weight Loss
Tomatillos have 32 calories per 100g with 91.6% water content — a hydrating, low-calorie vegetable-fruit. Salsa verde is one of the best diet-friendly condiments: it adds bold flavor with minimal calories (15-20 kcal per tablespoon) and virtually no fat or added sugar. Use liberally on grilled chicken, fish, eggs, and salads instead of high-calorie dressings.
For Athletic Performance
Tomatillos provide 268mg potassium for muscle function and electrolyte balance, plus 1.85mg niacin (12% DV) which is essential for energy metabolism and converting food to fuel. The 11.7mg vitamin C supports recovery and immune function. Salsa verde on post-workout meals adds flavor without excessive calories. The magnesium (20mg) helps with muscle relaxation and sleep quality.
For Keto
Tomatillos have 3.94g net carbs per 100g (5.84g total minus 1.9g fiber) — moderate for keto. One medium tomatillo (34g) has just 1.3g net carbs, so individual portions fit easily. Salsa verde is a superior keto condiment: tangy flavor with far less sugar than tomato-based salsas. Use salsa verde on eggs, chicken, pork — it transforms simple keto proteins. Avoid store-bought salsa verde with added sugar; homemade is simple and carb-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in tomatillos?
100g of tomatillos has 32 calories with 5.84g carbs, 0.96g protein, and 1.02g fat. One medium tomatillo (34g) has just 11 calories. They are 91.6% water. Higher in healthy fats than most fruits due to their seed content.
What nutrients do tomatillos have?
Tomatillos provide 11.7mg vitamin C (13% DV) for immunity, 1.85mg niacin (12% DV) for energy metabolism, 268mg potassium for blood pressure, and 20mg magnesium. They contain withanolides — unique bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Can you eat tomatillos on keto?
Tomatillos have 5.84g total carbs with 1.9g fiber = 3.94g net carbs per 100g. Moderate for keto — one medium tomatillo (34g) has only 1.3g net carbs. Salsa verde made from tomatillos is a great keto-friendly condiment compared to tomato-based salsas.
What is the difference between tomatillos and green tomatoes?
Despite looking similar, tomatillos and green tomatoes are different plants. Tomatillos (Physalis philadelphica) grow in a papery husk, are naturally green when ripe, and have a tart, citrusy flavor. Green tomatoes are unripe regular tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) — starchier and less tangy. They are not interchangeable in recipes.
How do you prepare tomatillos?
Remove the papery husk and rinse off the sticky residue. For salsa verde: roast or boil tomatillos until soft, then blend with jalapeño, onion, cilantro, and lime. Raw: dice into fresh salsas and salads. Roasted: fire-roasted on a comal or under the broiler for smoky depth. They can also be used in green enchilada sauce, pozole verde, and chilaquiles.
Do you eat tomatillos raw or cooked?
Both. Raw tomatillos are tart and crisp — good in fresh salsas and salads. Cooking (roasting, boiling, or grilling) mellows the tartness and brings out sweetness. Most traditional Mexican recipes call for cooked tomatillos. The papery husk must always be removed before eating.
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