Vietnamese Green Papaya and Beet Salad

In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and fish sauce and cook over moderate heat, stirring, until the sugar dissolves, about 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and whisk in the lime juice. Let cool.

Meanwhile, in a small skillet, heat the canola oil. Add the peanuts and cumin and cook over moderate heat, tossing, until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Spread the lettuce in a serving bowl. In another bowl, toss the fruit and vegetables, herbs, peanuts and sesame seeds with the dressing. Pile on top of the lettuce and serve right away.