Williams-Sonoma Sauteed Zucchini and Mushrooms

what a good idea, a natural pairing!

• Ready In: 1 hr 10 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1  lb  small zucchini
•  salt
• 1  lb  small firm fresh mushrooms
• 5  tablespoons olive oil
• 2  garlic cloves, chopped
• 1⁄4 cup  firmly packed finely shredded basil leaves
•  fresh ground pepper
• 1  lemon

Directions

1. Trim the ends off the ends of the zucchini and cut on the diagonal into slices 1/2 inch thick.
2. Place in a colander and sprinkle with salt, tossing to distribute the salt evenly. Spread the zucchini out in the colander and let stand over a bowl, or in the sink, for 40-50 minutes to drain off the excess moisture and bitterness. Rinse and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. Set aside.
3. Using a soft brush or a clean kitchen towel, clean the mushrooms of any bits of soil; DO NOT WASH. Trim the stems. Cut the mushrooms into slices 1/4 inch thick. Place in a bowl and set aside.
4. In a large saute pan or frying pan over medium heat, warm 2 TBS of the olive oil.
5. Add the zucchini and saute, tossing often, until tender but still firm - about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
6. Add another 2 TBS of olive oil to the same pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and saute, tossing often, until the mushrooms begin to soften - about 6-7 minutes. Transfer to the bowl with the zucchini.
7. Add the remaining 1 TBS of olive oil to the pan, reduce the heat to medium-low, and add the chopped garlic. Saute gently, stirring, until the garlic just begins to change color - about 30-40 seconds.
8. Return the mushrooms and zucchini to the pan, reduce the heat to medium-low, and add the basil. Salt and pepper to taste. Raise the heat and toss until the vegetables are hot.
9. Transfer to a warmed serving dish. Using a zester or a fine-holed shredder, shred the zest (yellow part only) from the lemon directly onto the vegetables and serve immediately.
10. NOTE: you can substitute grated Parmesan cheese for the lemon zest, if desired.