Chayote Squash “Picadillo”

Most of you have seen chayotes at your local supermarket, but didn’t know what to do with them…don’t be afraid to try this lesser-known variety of squash, you might discover a new favorite!

They have a very mild flavor, similar to the taste of a potato, with far fewer calories and carbohydrates. One cup of chayote has only 25 calories and it is  good source of Niacin, Vitamin B6, Pantothenic Acid, Magnesium and  Potassium, and a very good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K,  Folate, Zinc, Copper and Manganese.

Here are a few reasons to incorporate chayotes to your diet

Ingredients:

2 tbsp of cooking fat
3 diced chayote squash
1 lb of grass-fed ground beef
1/2 onion, chopped
1/2 bell pepper, sliced
1 tbsp of pressed garlic
1/2 tsp of celery seeds
2 tsp of cumin
2 tsp of oregano
1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
Salt to taste

Preparation:

• In a large saucepan saute the onions with the oil until tender.
• Mix in the meat, bell pepper, garlic and spices; cook on medium heat until the meat is fully cooked.
• Add  the chayote, cover and cook until tender
• Add cilantro, stir and remove from heat

Let sit for 5 minutes and serve