Since You Asked: By any name, chayote makes fine salad – Medford News, Weather, Sports, Breaking News

Mail Tribune (Medford, OR — Wayback)

2011-08-17

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Since You Asked: By any name, chayote makes fine salad Aug 17, 2011 12:00 AM A A While on a trip to Brazil, I frequently was served a vegetable called "chuchu" that tasted like cucumber. I asked about this at a local Latin market, but I'm either not pronouncing it right, or it isn't available in this area. Do you know where I can find it and possibly a recipe? — Sue W., via email Chuchu is simply chayote squash, known as "mirliton" in some parts of the United States, as "choko" in Australia and New Zealand, "chow-chow" in India, "sayote" in the Philippines, "guisquil" in Guatemala and myriad other names around the world. The pale-green vegetable about the size and shape of a small mango belongs to the same family as cucumbers and melons. It is stocked at local Latin markets under the name "chayote." We've also seen it at Food 4 Less in Medford. Prepared more like a slaw in this recipe, chayote soaks up the dressing yet stays crunchy. Cucumbers may be substituted. 3 chayote squash, peeled, seeded and diced 1 small onion, cut in half, peeled and sliced thin 1/2 red bell pepper, diced Salt and pepper, to taste 1 garlic clove, peeled and minced 1 tablespoon minced cilantro or Italian parsley 2 tablespoons olive oil 3 tablespoons lemon juice Place the squash in a small saucepan, cover with cold water and bring to a boil. Cook 1 minute, drain and transfer to a large bowl. Add the onion, bell pepper, salt and pepper, garlic, cilantro, olive oil and lemon juice. Toss well and refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving. Makes 4 servings.