Use fresh zucchini for the recipe. 2. Do not overcook it. A quick saute in a large frying pan/skillet should give you tender-crisp zucchini. 3. Use larger pieces of zucchini so that it has enough surface area to caramelize and the thickness prevents it from turning soggy/mushy. 4. Use medium-high to high heat for cooking. 5.Do not overcrowd the skillet/frying pan.