4 zucchini, sliced with a julienne peeler (about 4 cups)

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, minced (about 1 tablespoon)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Place the julienned zucchini in a colander or wire strainer and toss generously with salt until the strands are lightly coated. Allow the zucchini to sit for 20- 30 minutes to remove excess water. Rinse with running water, drain well, and pat dry with paper towels. (You may be tempted to skip this step; I strongly advise against it. This step ensures tender, rather than watery, noodles.) Once zucchini is ready, heat a large skillet over medium- high heat, about 2 minutes; Add the prepared zucchini noodles. Sauté them in the pan, until just tender, about 1-2 minutes. Push the noodles to the side of the pan, and reduce the heat to low. Add the olive oil, garlic, and crushed red pepper, stirring with the spoon until the garlic is fragrant, about 20 seconds. Push the zucchini noodles into the oil, and stir gently until they’re coated. Turn off the heat and mix the parsley, salt, and black pepper into the noodles.

Yield: 2 servings

Serving Size: 1-3/4 cups