Chayote skin is edible, though most cooks prefer to remove it with a peeler. Rinse peeled chayotes under cold running water to remove the sticky sap that is just below the skin before using. Halve chayote lengthwise, and pop out the seed.
How to Prepare Chayote
Chayote is sometimes compared to a cucumber or zucchini, and it can be eaten raw or cooked, peeled or unpeeled. Its crisp texture makes it an excellent choice for sautés and salads, and its firmness means its ideal for spiralizing—try it in place of yellow squash in this spiralized summer squash recipe. Its also delicious fried, stuffed, and smothered.
Whether you are eating chayote raw or cooking it, prep it by washing it, halving it lengthwise, and scooping out the large pit at the center of the squash.
What Is Chayote?
Also called vegetable pear, pear squash, choko, or mirliton—among other names—pear-shaped green chayote squash is a type of summer squash that is native to central Mexico and appears in Mexican cuisine and many other Latin American cuisines.
It has also been cultivated and used in the Cajun and Creole cuisines of Louisiana since the mid-1800s. While chayote doesnt enjoy the popularity in the rest of America that zucchini, pumpkins, and other better-known gourd fruits do, it is worth seeking out for its mild flavor and versatility.
Smartest Way to Cut, Peel, and Deseed Chayote
FAQ
Can you eat chayote with skin?
Why does my skin peel after touching chayote?
How do you peel a chayote squash?
If the chayote is a little slimy, peeling it under running water can counteract its slipperiness. Partially steam or boil chayote before peeling if the skin is particularly tough. For prickly chayote, wear gloves. Cut the squash into wedges along the folds and then peel the wedges.
how do I prepare yellow squash?
Roasted (or Baked) – Cut in half, slice or cut into pieces. Brush with olive oil and season with salt. Bake at 400-degrees for 20-25 minutes or until tender. Throw some other veggies on there to make a delicious roasted vegetable medley. Sautéed – Slice or cut into smaller pieces and sauté in butter over medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes or until tender. Season with salt or seasoning (see ideas below). Grilled – Cut into thick slices or wedges. Brush with vegetable oil and grill for 5 minutes per side or until tender. Season with salt with each turn. Air Fried – Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Air fry at 375-degrees for 8 minutes, flipping half-way through. Season more after flipping if needed.
Can you eat chayote squash?
The chayote, also known as mirliton or vegetable pear, is a tropical, warm-season squash native to Mexico. Its rind is edible, and it’s an excellent addition to salads and savory dishes alike. This squash is packed with magnesium, folate, and fiber, and it can be cooked or raw, depending on the recipe.
Can You peel chayote before cooking?
The flesh of the chayote will remain firm if the skin is left on during cooking. You can peel chayote before or after cooking, but if you peel it before it may secrete a sticky substance that might irritate your skin. This substance disappears during cooking. To peel chayote before cooking, wear gloves or oil your hands or peel under running water.