Chayote and Hearts-of-Palm Salad

Directions

1. 1.

   Mince garlic and mash to a paste with 1/2 teaspoon salt using side of a large heavy knife. Whisk together lime juice, oil, and garlic paste in a large bowl, then add onion, tossing to coat.

2. 2.

   Halve chayotes lengthwise, then peel with a vegetable peeler and scoop out pits with a spoon. Cut chayotes crosswise into 1/3-inch-thick slices, then halve slices lengthwise to make 1/3-inch-thick sticks (sticks will not be uniform).

3. 3.

   Cook chayotes in a 4- to 6-quart pot of boiling salted water until crisp-tender, about 6 minutes. Drain well in a colander, then, while still hot, toss with dressing. Cool to room temperature.

4. 4.

   Cut hearts of palm diagonally into 1/4-inch-thick slices, then add to chayote mixture along with celery, parsley, cilantro, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Gently toss.