Strawberry, Melon & Avocado Salad

Ingredients

1/4 cup agave nectar 

2 tablespoons sherry vinegar, or red-wine vinegar

2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Pinch of salt

4 cups baby spinach

1 small avocado, (4-5 ounces), peeled, pitted and cut into 16 slices

16 thin slices cantaloupe, (about 1/2 small cantaloupe), rind removed

1 1/2 cups hulled strawberries, sliced

2 teaspoons sesame seeds, toasted (see Tip)

Directions

1. Whisk agave nectar, vinegar, mint, pepper and salt in a small bowl.

2. Divide spinach among 4 salad plates. Arrange alternating slices of avocado and cantaloupe in a fan on top of the spinach. Top each salad with strawberries, drizzle with dressing and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Tips:
Tip: To toast sesame seeds, heat a small dry skillet over low heat. Add sesame seeds and stir constantly until golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and let cool.

MAKE AHEAD TIP: The dressing will keep, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 1 day