San Marzano tomatoes are a variety of plum tomatoes that originate from the San Marzano region near Naples, Italy. They are known for their sweet flavor, low acidity, and meaty texture, making them ideal for sauces and cooking. These tomatoes are typically longer and thinner than other varieties, with a bright red color and few seeds. Cultivated in the rich volcanic soil of Mount Vesuvius, San Marzano tomatoes are often considered the gold standard for Italian cuisine. They are protected by the DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) designation, which ensures that only tomatoes grown in this specific region can be labeled as San Marzano.