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15 Must-Try Chayote Squash Recipes for Every Occasion

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If you’re on the hunt for the best squash recipes, you’ve come to the right place! From quick and easy squash recipes to hearty and flavorful squash dishes, chayote squash is a versatile star ingredient that deserves a spot in your kitchen.

Whether you’re curious about how to cook chayote squash or you’re already a fan of its crisp, mild flavor, this list of chayote recipes has something for everyone. From refreshing chayote salad recipes to comforting mains, these chayote squash recipes will inspire you to get creative with this unique veggie.

Check out more squash recipes:

Let’s dive into some delicious recipes with chayote that will elevate your collection of recipes squash in the most flavorful way!

1. Chayote Squash and Potato Curry

This curry is one of my go-to comfort foods. It’s so simple, and the flavors come together beautifully with just a handful of spices. The potatoes make it hearty, and the chayote squash gives it a unique texture. Even my picky eaters enjoy it, which is saying something! Serve it with some hot roti or plain rice, and you’ve got a meal.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 chayote squash, peeled and diced
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder (optional)
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cup water
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for a few seconds.
  2. Add chopped onion and sauté until golden.
  3. Stir in garlic, tomatoes, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook until the tomatoes are mushy.
  4. Add the diced potatoes and chayote squash. Mix well to coat with the spices.
  5. Pour in water, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the veggies are tender.
  6. Sprinkle garam masala and adjust salt. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  7. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with roti or rice.

2. Chayote Squash Stir-Fry with Garlic and Ginger

This stir-fry is so quick and easy; it’s my lifesaver on busy weeknights. The chayote squash has a mild sweetness that pairs so well with garlic and ginger. It’s a light and healthy dish, but super satisfying when served with some steamed rice.

Servings: 3-4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 chayote squash, julienned
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 green chili (optional)
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat sesame oil in a wok or large pan.
  2. Add garlic, ginger, and green chili (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Toss in the julienned chayote squash and stir-fry for 5 minutes.
  4. Add soy sauce, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine.
  5. Cook for another 5 minutes until the squash is tender but still has a slight crunch.
  6. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve warm.

3. Chayote Squash Soup with Coconut Milk

This creamy soup is so comforting, especially on a chilly evening. The coconut milk gives it a velvety texture, and the chayote squash makes it light yet filling. It’s a great way to sneak in veggies for the kids too—they love slurping it up!

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 chayote squash, peeled and diced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
  2. Add the diced chayote squash and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle in curry powder, then pour in vegetable broth. Simmer for 15 minutes, until the squash is tender.
  4. Blend the soup using an immersion blender (or let it cool and blend in batches).
  5. Stir in coconut milk and heat through without boiling.
  6. Adjust seasoning, garnish with cilantro, and serve warm.

4. Chayote Squash and Lentil Stew

This hearty stew is a favorite in my house, especially on meatless Mondays. It’s packed with protein from the lentils and has a wonderful earthy flavor. Pair it with some crusty bread or rice for a wholesome meal.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup lentils (red or green)
  • 2 chayote squash, diced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onion, garlic, and carrot until softened.
  2. Add cumin powder and smoked paprika, stirring for a minute.
  3. Stir in the lentils and chayote squash.
  4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
  6. Season with salt and pepper, then serve warm with a drizzle of olive oil.

5. Chayote Squash Salad with Lemon Dressing

This refreshing salad is perfect for a summer lunch or as a light side dish. Chayote squash adds a lovely crunch, and the zesty lemon dressing ties it all together. It’s so simple but incredibly flavorful!

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 chayote squash, thinly sliced
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine chayote squash, cucumber, and red onion.
  2. Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  3. Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss well.
  4. Garnish with parsley and serve chilled.

6. Chayote Squash Fritters

These crispy fritters are a fun snack or appetizer. They’re super easy to make and always a hit with the kids. Dip them in ketchup or a yogurt sauce, and they disappear in no time!

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 chayote squash, grated
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup chickpea flour (or all-purpose flour)
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix grated chayote squash, onion, flour, cumin seeds, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Add a little water to make a thick batter.
  2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
  3. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil and flatten slightly.
  4. Fry until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

7. Chayote Squash and Chicken Stir-Fry

This stir-fry is one of my favorite quick dinners. The chicken adds protein, and the chayote squash stays crisp and fresh. It’s perfect for those nights when you need a wholesome meal in under 30 minutes. My kids love this with plain white rice or even noodles!

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 chayote squash, julienned
  • 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok. Add the chicken slices and cook until golden and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pan, heat the remaining oil and sauté garlic, ginger, and onion until fragrant.
  3. Add the chayote squash and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, then add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well.
  5. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then serve hot with rice or noodles.

8. Chayote Squash Stuffed with Vegetables and Cheese

This recipe is a bit more special, perfect for weekend dinners or when you want to impress guests. The chayote squash acts as a natural bowl filled with a cheesy veggie mixture. It’s hearty, satisfying, and a great way to use up leftover veggies.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 4 chayote squash, halved and seeds removed
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cooked spinach
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Steam the halved chayote squash for 10 minutes, then scoop out some of the flesh to make a hollow. Chop the scooped-out flesh and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté garlic, onion, bell pepper, and spinach. Add the chopped chayote flesh, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
  3. Mix in breadcrumbs and half of the cheese.
  4. Stuff the hollowed chayote halves with the mixture and top with the remaining cheese.
  5. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

9. Chayote Squash Pickles

These quick pickles are a tangy, crunchy treat that’s great as a side or snack. I love making a batch and keeping it in the fridge for whenever we want something zesty to pair with meals. It’s surprisingly easy to make!

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 3 chayote squash, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 green chili, sliced (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Blanch the sliced chayote squash in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a small pot, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, turmeric, and chili. Bring to a boil.
  3. Pour the hot mixture over the chayote slices in a clean jar or bowl.
  4. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

10. Chayote Squash and Egg Scramble

This simple egg scramble is great for breakfast or even a quick lunch. The chayote squash adds a nice crunch, and the eggs make it super satisfying. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, even on a busy morning!

Servings: 2-3
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 chayote squash, diced
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté garlic and onion until softened.
  2. Add the diced chayote squash and cook for 5 minutes until tender but still crisp.
  3. Push the squash to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the other side.
  4. Scramble the eggs gently, then mix them with the squash.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

11. Chayote Squash and Rice Pilaf

This rice pilaf is a light, flavorful dish that works as a side or main course. The chayote squash blends beautifully with the spices and adds a delicate sweetness. It’s also a great way to jazz up plain rice for a change.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 2 chayote squash, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 cloves
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 15 minutes, then drain.
  2. Heat oil in a pot and sauté onion, garlic, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaf until fragrant.
  3. Add the diced chayote squash and cook for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Stir in the rice and toast it for a minute.
  5. Pour in the vegetable broth and add salt. Bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
  7. Fluff with a fork and serve warm.

12. Chayote Squash with Chickpeas in Tomato Sauce

This is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for when you want something filling yet wholesome. The chickpeas add a nice protein boost, and the tomato sauce ties everything together. It’s great with rice, naan, or even on its own as a stew.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 chayote squash, diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
  2. Add cumin powder, coriander powder, and paprika, stirring for 1 minute.
  3. Toss in the diced chayote squash and cook for 5 minutes.
  4. Add the tomato puree, chickpeas, and a splash of water. Stir well and simmer for 15 minutes, until the squash is tender.
  5. Adjust salt and pepper, garnish with cilantro, and serve warm.

13. Chayote Squash and Spinach Gratin

This creamy gratin is pure comfort food. The chayote squash and spinach make it feel a little lighter, but the cheesy topping keeps it indulgent. It’s perfect as a side dish or even a main with some crusty bread on the side.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 chayote squash, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyere cheese
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp butter

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a buttered baking dish, layer the sliced chayote squash and fresh spinach.
  3. In a small bowl, mix heavy cream, minced garlic, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the veggies.
  4. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. Serve hot.

14. Chayote Squash and Shrimp Stir-Fry

This quick and delicious stir-fry is packed with flavor and protein. The shrimp cook up fast, and the chayote squash adds a fresh crunch. It’s a perfect meal for busy nights and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 chayote squash, julienned
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok. Sauté the shrimp until pink and fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pan, heat the remaining oil and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
  3. Add the julienned chayote squash and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
  4. Return the shrimp to the pan, then add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  5. Cook for another 2 minutes and serve hot with rice or noodles.

15. Chayote Squash Curry with Coconut and Spices

This curry is rich, creamy, and full of bold flavors. The coconut milk adds a wonderful sweetness, and the spices bring it all to life. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect with steamed rice or flatbread.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 chayote squash, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, minced
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a pot and add mustard seeds. Let them pop for a few seconds.
  2. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until softened.
  3. Stir in turmeric powder and ground coriander. Cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add the diced chayote squash and mix well to coat with the spices.
  5. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth. Simmer for 15 minutes, until the squash is tender.
  6. Adjust salt, garnish with cilantro, and serve warm.

Chayote squash is such an underrated gem, and these recipes prove how versatile and delicious it can be! Whether you’re exploring chayote salad recipes, comforting mains, or simple sides, these ideas are sure to become some of your best squash recipes yet.

If you’re looking for easy squash recipes to whip up during a busy week or impressive squash dishes to share with loved ones, this collection of chayote squash recipes has you covered. Now that you know how to cook chayote squash, you’ll see just how easy it is to include it in your regular rotation of meals.

So grab a few chayote squash and try these recipes with chayote—they’re bound to become your new favorite squash recipes!

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