1️⃣ Preheat oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2️⃣ Mix dry ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3️⃣ Combine wet ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together oil, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

4️⃣ Add zucchini:
Stir the shredded zucchini into the wet mixture. No need to squeeze the moisture out – it helps keep the brownies moist!

5️⃣ Combine wet and dry:
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. The batter will seem thick – keep mixing until combined.

6️⃣ Fold in extras:
If using, fold in chocolate chips and/or nuts.

7️⃣ Bake:
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean (a few moist crumbs are okay).

8️⃣ Cool and serve:
Let cool completely before cutting into squares. For extra decadence, top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate.