Cooking and roasting beets is a transformative experience that can elevate their natural sweetness and earthy flavor, turning even the most skeptical palates into enthusiastic fans. To master this technique, consider the following steps for preparation:

  • Selection: Choose firm, vibrant beets without blemishes. Smaller beets are often sweeter and more tender.
  • Washing: Scrub the beets under running water to remove dirt. Avoid peeling them before cooking, as the skin helps retain moisture and flavor.
  • Trimming: Cut off the tops and tails, leaving about an inch of the stem to prevent bleeding during cooking.

When it comes to roasting, the method you choose can greatly affect the flavor and texture.

  • Wrap and Roast: Wrap whole beets in aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt before placing them on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
  • Slice and Dice: If you’re short on time, peel and cut beets into wedges, toss with olive oil, and roast at the same temperature for 30-40 minutes.
  • Steam for Brightness: Alternatively, steaming beets preserves their vibrant color and nutrients. Steam them whole for 30-40 minutes, then let them cool before peeling.

Regardless of the method, once they are roasted, let the beets cool, then easily slide off the skins with your fingers. The resulting tender, sweet beets are now ready to be transformed into a stunning salad that will impress even the biggest beet skeptics!