Step 1

Preheat oven to 400° F. Cut leaves and stems from beets and discard, or use for another purpose.

Step 2

Scrub and wash clean under water. Place a beet on a square of foil and drizzle with a bit of olive oil. Lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper, then tightly wrap in foil. Repeat for remaining beets.

Step 3

Place beets on a baking sheet. Bake 35-40 minutes, until tender. Cool slightly before removing foil.

Step 4

Scrub or peel off the skin and discard. Thinly slice beets and place stacked in small mason jars and set aside.

Step 5

In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine water, vinegar, sugar, bay leaf, peppercorns, and salt, plus additional desired spices or herbs. Bring to a boil then pour over beets until they are submerged.

Step 6

Tightly seal on lids and let cool slightly at room temp. Pace jars in the refrigerator for 4 to 7 days, then serve.