Lemon olive oil cake

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS
 * 3 cups grated zucchini (about 2 zucchini)
 * grated zest of 2 large lemons
 * 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
 * 3 large eggs
 * 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
 * 2 cups brown sugar (packed softly)
 * 2 cups all-purpose flour
 * 1 teaspoon salt
 * 1 teaspoon baking powder
 * ½ teaspoon baking soda
 * 3 tablespoons poppy seeds
 * optional: tiny pinch of nutmeg
 * optional: a small grated piece of fresh ginger
 * Preheat the oven to 350. In a small mixing bowl, mix the zucchini with ¼ cup brown sugar. Transfer the mixture to a fine-mesh strainer set over the mixing bowl. Fill another small bowl with water and set it directly on top of the zucchini so that it is pushing down, pressing the water out into the bowl below.
 * Line a 9x5 loaf pan with parchment paper. Whisk together the remaining brown sugar, eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla until well blended. Beat in the olive oil gradually, whisking it in until it's thoroughly incorporated.
 * Stir in the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, poppy seeds, nutmeg, and ginger until just combined. Add the pressed zucchini to the batter and stir it in gently until evenly incorporated.
 * Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake on the middle rack of the oven for about 1 hour and 10 minutes. The outer crust of the bread will be firm to the touch and on the darker side of golden brown (see notes).
 * Cool the bread in the pan for about 20 minutes. Remove, cut, and serve. Store in refrigerator.