Mama's Blue Binder: Can't BEET this simple trick.

I've recently had conversations with a few friends about Beets. Not totally random, as it is Farmer's Market season, and we share our weekly finds and plans for our market goodies. But I was kind of surprised to hear in both instances, that my friends were shying away from the beautiful red, purple and golden beets of the season for fear of the hassle to prepare them. Don't let these guys intimidate you!

Here's what I do.

Heat your oven to 425 degrees.

Start with your beets. Get them washed and Cut the ends/greens off (you CAN say the greens! But thats for another day…) No peeling, no seasoning.

Wrap each beet in aluminum foil. I also like to line the sheet pan with an additional piece of foil because chances are the pouches will bubble a bit.

Cook the wrapped beets in the oven for about 45 minutes. Take them out and let them cool completely.

Now the magic happens.

Unwrap your little beet-presents under cool, running water. Gently rub the skins of the beets under the water and watch them peel away. Its hard to see in the picture of the purple beet, but look at that golden beet! The peel just comes right off!

You're left with gorgeous produce and CLEAN HANDS with such minimal work!

Now its up to you how you want to prepare you beets. Simple salt seasoning for the most basic enjoyment, but I love to make a nice salad with granny smith apples, fresh mint, and goat cheese crumbles!