Chinese-Style Zucchini Salad

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds zucchini ((about 3 medium))
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorn powder ((or white peppercorn powder))
• 1 1/2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon chili oil ((optional))
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

1. 1

   Wash the zucchini and pat dry with a clean towel. Trim off the ends, and cut each zucchini in half lengthwise. Scoop out any large seeds from the middle. Then use a julienne peeler, spiralizer, or just a knife to cut the zucchini into long thin strands or julienne it.

2. 2

   In a bowl, sprinkle the salt over the zucchini, and toss it well. Let it stand for 20 minutes on the counter.

3. 3

   Make the dressing by combining the sugar, Sichuan peppercorn powder, sesame oil, light soy sauce, lemon juice and rice vinegar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.

4. 4

   After 20 minutes, discard the liquid at the bottom of the bowl of zucchini, and gently squeeze out some of the liquid from the zucchini.

5. 5

   Right before serving, mix the zucchini with the prepared dressing, garlic and chili oil if using. Garnish with sesame seeds, and serve immediately.