Step 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.

Step 2

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

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 5

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