Sweet Ricotta + Strawberry Parfaits

The sweet ricotta mimics cheesecake in these delicious (and easy) dessert parfaits.

Ingredients:

1 lb fresh strawberries, trimmed, quartered

1 tsp sugar

1 tbsp chopped fresh mint

15 oz part-skim ricotta cheese

3 tbsp light agave nectar

1 tsp vanilla

lemon zest

fresh mint

Instructions:

In a medium bowl combine strawberries, sugar, and mint; gently stir to combine. Let stand about 10 minutes or until berries soften and start to release their juices. In another medium bowl combine ricotta, agave nectar, vanilla, and lemon peel. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes.

To assemble, scoop 1 tablespoon of the ricotta mixture into each of six parfait glasses. Top ricotta mixture in each glass with a large spoonful of the strawberry mixture. Repeat layers with the remaining ricotta mixture and strawberry mixture. Garnish with additional fresh mint. Serve immediately or cover and chill for up to 4 hours. Makes 6 servings.