Spicy Pan Roasted Chayote Squash

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes

Makes 4 Servings

Ingredients

2 chayote squash, peeled and cubed into ½ inch pieces

½ teaspoon chili powder

¼ teaspoon turmeric powder

½ teaspoon cumin powder

½ teaspoon salt or to taste

1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil

½ cup chopped onion

1 garlic clove

¼ teaspoon ground pepper

Instructions

In a cast iron pan heat oil and add onion and garlic. When onion becomes translucent, about 4-5 minutes, add chayote squash, salt, turmeric, chili powder and cook about 8-10 minutes or until chayote squash is cooked through. Then add pepper and take off heat.

Enjoy with bowl or rice or flatbread.

What is chayote?

Chayote is technically a fruit, but it's prepared and eaten as a vegetable. It can be prepared like any summer squash, roasted in the oven, sauteed in a pan or eaten raw like jicama in salads and salsas.

Flavor and Texture Profile

Raw: It is very crisp, juicy, and subtly sweet, with a refreshing crunch similar to jicama or apple.

Cooked: When boiled, sautéed, or roasted, it softens into a tender texture much like a standard summer squash or zucchini.

Versatility: Because its natural flavor is very light and delicate, it easily absorbs the spices, garlic, butter, or sauces of whatever dish it is cooked in.

Eating Raw Chayote

Texture & Flavor: Crisp, crunchy, and refreshing with a mild, subtly sweet taste similar to a cross between a cucumber, jicama, and summer squash.

Best Uses: Thinly sliced or grated into salads, slaws, salsas, or quick pickles.

Tip: Peel younger chayote if the skin feels tough and marinate raw slices in lime or lemon juice to brighten the flavor.

Eating Cooked Chayote

Texture & Flavor: Softens up nicely while retaining a slight, pleasant crispness. Roasting or sautéing brings out a deeper, slightly buttery sweetness.

Best Uses: Sautéed in stir-fries, simmered in soups and stews, or roasted as a side dish (handled much like zucchini or potatoes).

Tip: It easily absorbs the surrounding spices and flavors of whatever dish it is cooked in.

Nutrition

Chayote is packed with fiber, folate, choline, and magnesium while being low in calories.