Teresa's Recipes
Stuffed Mirliton
Delve into the rich culinary traditions of Louisiana with this delightful Stuffed Mirliton, also known as chayote squash. This dish is a true representation of Cajun cuisine, featuring tender mirliton shells filled with a succulent mixture of shrimp, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of spices that will have your taste buds dancing. Each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors, making it an irresistible dish for family gatherings or special occasions. Historically, mirliton has been a staple in Creole cooking, embodying the fusion of diverse culinary influences in the region.
Ingredients
- 2, halved and seeds removed Mirliton (chayote squash)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
- 2 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1/2 cup, diced Celery
- 1/2 cup, diced Bell pepper
- 1/2 cup, diced Onion
- 1 pound, peeled and deveined Shrimp
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 3g
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the mirliton in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place the halves in a large pot of boiling water and cook until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let cool.
- Carefully scoop out the flesh of the mirliton, leaving a 1/4-inch thick shell. Chop the flesh and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped mirliton flesh and shrimp to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the creole seasoning, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Generously fill each mirliton shell with the shrimp and vegetable mixture, pressing down slightly to pack it in.
- Place the stuffed mirliton in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and lightly browned on top.
- Serve hot and enjoy! Pair with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced tomatoes or a splash of hot sauce into the filling.
- You can substitute shrimp with cooked chicken or sausage for a different protein option.
- Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for an eye-catching presentation.