If you’ve never tried beets as a dish or tossed in a salad, you’re really missing out. The tough root vegetable might not look like much, but cook it the right way and you’ve got a nicely flavored vegetable that is a perfect complement to many dishes – or as a side that can stand on its own.

Beets are also pretty healthy. In fact, their nutrients provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. They also come high in Potassium, Magnesium, Fiber, Iron, Beta-Carotene, and Vitamins A, B, and C.

So next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t overlook these unsightly vegetables. Pick some up (did we also mention they’re pretty cheap?) and learn how to cook beets in one of these three traditional ways.

How to Boil Beets

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Wash beets and cut off all but two inches of the stem (if they have the green, leafy stem still attached). Don’t chop off the roots at the bottom either, since beets have a bad habit of dying everything they come into contact with and this will help keep the beets from bleeding. Add to a saucepan and fill with enough water to cover the tops. Add in 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 Tablespoon of vinegar. Bring water and beets to a boil. Boil for 35-40 minutes or until beets are tender. Once finished, drain the beets and run cold water over them. This will help the skins peel off more easily. Serve with melted butter, salt, and pepper for a simple side dish.

How to Roast Beets

Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees. Take 1 bunch of beets (should be about a pound and a half) and rinse them in cold water while scrubbing them. (Note: it’s a good idea to wear kitchen gloves, as beets can stain your hands) Cut beets in half (or into wedges if you want them to be smaller). Place on a baking sheet lined with foil and drizzle with olive oil, and then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place another sheet of foil on top, close the edges, and fold the sides up to create an enclosed packet. Roast beets for 25-30 minutes or until they’re tender. When you can easily stick a fork in one, you’ll know it’s done. Serve by themselves or toss into a salad.

How to Steam Beets

Add water into a saucepan until it’s about two inches deep. Bring to a low simmer. Wash and scrub beets to get any remaining dirt off. Chop into small quarters. Add a steaming basket on top of saucepan and add beets. Cover and steam for 20 minutes or until beets are tender. Again, the beets are done when you can easily stick a fork in them. Season with salt and pepper to taste or add them to another dish.

If you really want to go all out, you can also pickle beets, but that’s a post for another time! How do you prefer to cook your beets? Do you enjoy them by themselves or in another dish? Share your preferences with us in the comments!