Step 1

Wash and dry beets.

Step 2

Peel, if desired.

Step 3

With a sharp knife, firmly grasp the beet and trim off each tough end, then dice into 1-inch cubes.

Step 4

Add diced beets to a microwave-safe container with a seasoning of your choice, such as salt and pepper, or lemon pepper.

Step 5

Add a teaspoon of fat for flavor. (If not using fat, include about 2 T of water.)

Step 6

Add salt and cover loosely.

Step 7

Please microwave-safe dish in the microwave and cook on high 3 minutes.

Step 8

Stir. Cook for an additional minute.

Step 9

Gently poke with a fork to test for tenderness.

Step 10

Use hot pads to remove from the microwave.

Step 11

Toss well and serve warm or chill before serving.

Step 12

Optional fast pickled beets: Use water instead of fat. Season with a fast pickling spice of 1 T apple cider vinegar, 1 t sugar, ½ t salt.