Are you looking for a new ingredient to add some excitement to your meals? Look no further than the humble mirliton, also known as chayote or vegetable pear. This versatile squash has a mild flavor and a unique texture that makes it perfect for a wide range of dishes. From classic Creole and Cajun recipes to more modern twists, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 18 flavorful mirliton recipes.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty casserole or a light and refreshing salad, these recipes will show you the many faces of mirliton. You’ll find inspiration for special occasions like holidays and birthdays, as well as everyday meals that are sure to become family favorites.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of mirliton, with recipes that highlight its natural sweetness and ability to absorb bold flavors. From spicy seafood dishes to comforting casseroles and even vegan options, there’s something for every taste and dietary preference.
Spicy Mirliton and Shrimp Casserole
This casserole combines the sweetness of mirliton (also known as chayote squash) with the spiciness of Andouille sausage and the brininess of shrimp, all wrapped up in a creamy bechamel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 large mirliton, peeled and cubed
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bechamel sauce (see note)
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add mirliton and shrimp; cook until mirliton is tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Pour bechamel sauce over the top.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: For bechamel sauce, combine 2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, and 1 cup heavy cream in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
Cajun Stuffed Mirliton with Ground Beef
This classic Cajun dish combines tender mirliton (a type of squash) with flavorful ground beef and spices, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a side dish for a festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized mirlitons
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the mirlitons in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stuff each mirliton half with the beef mixture, dividing it evenly.
6. Place the stuffed mirlitons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning, and paprika.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creole Mirliton Dressing
This Creole-inspired dressing recipe brings together the natural sweetness of mirlitons (a type of okra) with the bold flavors of the South. Perfect as a side dish for your next dinner party or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large mirlitons, chopped
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toss chopped mirlitons with a pinch of salt, then spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika.
4. Add roasted mirlitons to the dressing mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions (if using).
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Baked Mirliton Gratin
A creamy, cheesy twist on traditional mirliton dishes, this gratin is perfect for a cozy dinner party or special occasion. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 large mirlitons (chayotes), peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté mirliton slices in butter until tender and lightly browned.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and flour. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Arrange cooked mirliton slices in the dish.
5. Pour cheese mixture over mirlitons, spreading evenly to cover.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mirliton and Crabmeat Au Gratin
This creamy casserole brings together the natural sweetness of mirliton (also known as chayote) with the savory flavor of crabmeat, creating a dish perfect for a special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium mirlitons, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup jumbo lump crabmeat
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mirliton cubes in butter until tender, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, mix crabmeat and flour. Add heavy cream and stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked mirliton in the bottom. Top with the crabmeat mixture, then sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
5. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of mirliton on top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Southern Fried Mirliton Slices
Mirlitons, also known as chayotes, are a staple in Southern cuisine. These sweet and slightly tart slices are battered and fried to perfection, making them a delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium mirlitons, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each mirliton slice into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry mirliton slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total
Mirliton and Andouille Sausage Stew
This hearty stew combines the sweetness of mirlitons (also known as chayotes) with the smoky flavor of Andouille sausage, making it a perfect comfort food for chilly days.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium mirlitons, peeled and cubed
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the mirlitons, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the mirlitons are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Mirliton with Garlic Butter
Mirliton, also known as chayote or mirlitons, is a type of squash that pairs perfectly with the richness of garlic butter. This roasted recipe brings out the natural sweetness in the mirliton and adds an aromatic flavor from the garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized mirliton, peeled and cubed
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the mirliton cubes with salt and pepper.
3. Spread the mirliton mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
5. While the mirliton is roasting, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
6. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for an additional minute.
7. Remove the mirliton from the oven and brush with the garlic butter.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mirliton and Cornbread Casserole
This casserole combines the natural sweetness of mirlitons (also known as chayote squash) with the warm, comforting flavors of cornbread. Perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium mirlitons, peeled and diced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
4. Arrange mirliton slices in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour batter over the squash, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Mirliton with Herb Marinade
This recipe brings the exotic flavors of the Mediterranean to your backyard with grilled mirliton (also known as chayote) smothered in a fragrant herb marinade. Perfect for a summer dinner party or a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium mirlitons (chayotes)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
3. Cut the mirlitons in half lengthwise and place them on a large plate or tray.
4. Brush both sides of the mirliton halves with the herb marinade.
5. Grill the mirlitons for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve warm with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Mirliton and Tasso Ham Jambalaya
This hearty jambalaya dish combines the sweetness of mirliton (a type of squash) with the savory flavors of tasso ham, creating a deliciously balanced meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1 medium mirliton, peeled and diced
– 4 slices Tasso ham, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Add the mirliton, Tasso ham, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffed Mirliton with Crawfish Tails
Mirliton, also known as chayote squash, is a staple ingredient in many Creole and Cajun dishes. This recipe combines the sweet, nutty flavor of mirliton with the spicy kick of crawfish tails for a unique and flavorful main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium mirliton squashes
– 1/2 cup crawfish tail meat
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the top off each mirliton squash, scoop out the seeds, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together crawfish tail meat, breadcrumbs, butter, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each squash with the crawfish mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the squashes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mirliton and Okra Gumbo
This hearty gumbo recipe combines the unique flavors of mirliton (a type of squash) and okra with traditional spices and herbs, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large mirliton, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups okra, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mirliton, okra, thyme, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Braised Mirliton with Bacon and Onions
Mirliton, a type of marrow squash, becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked with crispy bacon and caramelized onions. This comforting side dish is perfect for cold winter evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 large mirliton (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the cooked bacon with a slotted spoon; set aside.
4. Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook until they are caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the cubed mirliton, garlic, and chicken broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Cover the pot and braise in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender.
7. Stir in the cooked bacon and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mirliton and Shrimp Étouffée
This hearty Cajun-inspired dish combines the flavors of mirliton (also known as chayote), shrimp, and spices to create a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium mirliton, peeled and cubed
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add mirliton, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let etouffée simmer for 10 minutes or until mirliton is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Mirliton and Mushroom Stir-Fry
Discover the rich flavors of this vegan stir-fry, featuring tender mirliton (a type of calabash) and earthy mushrooms. Perfect as a main dish or side, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized mirliton, peeled and cubed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegan stir-fry sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the mushrooms; stir-fry for 5 minutes, or until they release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Add the mirliton, vegan stir-fry sauce, and soy sauce; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the mirliton is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over your favorite grain or noodle.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mirliton and Chicken Creole
This hearty dish combines the flavors of Louisiana with the unique sweetness of mirliton (also known as chayote), resulting in a deliciously rich and savory creole-inspired stew.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium mirliton, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Creole seasoning blend
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the mirliton, Creole seasoning blend, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot, add 1 cup of water or chicken broth, and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until mirliton is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Pickled Mirliton Salad with Spicy Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the tangy flavor of pickled mirliton (chayote) with a spicy kick, making it perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large mirliton, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon pickling spice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– Spicy dressing ingredients (see below)
Pickling Mirliton:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, water, and pickling spice.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Pack mirliton into a clean glass jar, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
5. Pour hot pickling liquid over mirliton, making sure they are completely covered.
Spicy Dressing:
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Assembly:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens and pickled mirliton.
2. Drizzle Spicy Dressing over the salad just before serving.
Cooking Time: None (pickling takes about 10 minutes)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these 18 mouthwatering mirliton recipes! From spicy casserole to braised dishes, and even vegan options, there’s something for every occasion. Try the Spicy Mirliton and Shrimp Casserole, Cajun Stuffed Mirliton with Ground Beef, or the classic Creole Mirliton Dressing. Or go all out with the Cheesy Baked Mirliton Gratin or Mirliton and Crabmeat Au Gratin. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a show-stopping main course, these recipes are sure to please.