Step 1

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 2

Remove the tops and the roots of the beets and peel each one with a vegetable peeler.

Step 3

Cut the beets into 1 1/2-inch chunks. (Small beets can be halved, medium ones cut in quarters and large beets cut into eighths.)

Step 4

Place the cut beets on foil-lined baking sheet and toss with olive oil, thyme, salt and pepper. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes, turning once or twice with a spatula, until the beets are tender. Remove from the oven and immediately toss with orange zest. Season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve warm.