| Property |
Chayote |
| Form |
Whole fruit (green, wrinkled skin) |
| Color |
Pale green to light green |
| Shape |
Pear-shaped or wrinkled, with a single pit inside |
| Size |
Typically 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) long, 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) in diameter |
| Texture (Skin) |
Thin, wrinkled, slightly tough, but edible |
| Texture (Flesh) |
Firm, crisp, crunchy, moist when raw |
| Flavor |
Mild, slightly sweet, with a hint of cucumber or zucchini |
| Aroma |
Mild, fresh, neutral scent |
| Solubility |
Soluble in water when cooked |
| Storage |
Store in a cool, dry place; refrigerate after peeling or cutting |
| Uses |
Eaten raw, sautéed, boiled, in soups, salads, or as a vegetable substitute |
| Shelf Life |
1–2 weeks at room temperature, up to 1 week refrigerated |
| Nutritional Value |
High in fiber, vitamins C and B, potassium, and folate |
