Chayote is the fruit of what is commonly known as chayotera, a plant with long leaves that belongs to the cucurbitaceae family and is characterized by the fact that it has a single seed inside that germinates within the same fruit. The Chayote's rind is ivory in color, very smooth, soft and full of fine points, and its shape is reminiscent of a pear. It has accentuated striations on its surface and its weight is variable, since it can range from 200gr to 2 Kgs.    

The Chayote is native to Central and South America. Costa Rica is one of the main exporters of sayota in the world. Despite the fact that its cultivation requires warm climates, it vegetates with great comfort on the Mediterranean coast, where it can be found in Valencia, Andalusia and especially in the Canary Islands, its most common consumption is in Central American countries.   

It is composed of 90% water, and has a low starch content, so it can be consumed calmly without fear of gaining weight. Chayote has diuretic, cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory properties. Likewise, it is common in certain areas to use a tea made from the leaves of its plant for the treatment of arteriosclerosis and hypertension, as well as to help dissolve kidney stones.    

Its meat is fine and tasty both cooked and fried, in soups or as a side dish. It is worth highlighting the excellence of sayota as a vegetable, highly appreciated in many countries around the world, especially in tropical areas. Likewise, it is commonly used for the preparation of salads, with lemon juice and oil, creams and meat stews.   

The Chayote is perfectly preserved in a cool, dark and ventilated place.