Beets get a bad reputation — I think half of Minnesota has a childhood memory of soggy canned beets and has never looked back. That was me too, until fresh, in-season beets arrived in my CSA box. They were like a completely different vegetable, and this week I set out to prove it to my own family! Here’s what’s been happening in my kitchen:

Here’s what’s actually happening in my kitchen this week (and for probably several to come):

1. Roasted beets, no foil required

Cubed, tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roasted until the edges caramelize. That caramelization is the whole trick — it’s what turns “I don’t like beets” into “wait, can I have more?” Suddenly you’re not eating dirt; you’re eating a sweetly roasted delicacy. Trust me, and give it a try!

2. Beet and kale salad

Roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, toasted pecans, a handful of kale, balsamic drizzle. This is the salad I make when I want people to be impressed and have no idea it took ten minutes of actual effort. So fancy and crisp!

3. Shaved raw beet salad

I’m talking about thin-sliced raw beet, a little lemon juice, drizzle of olive oil, and shaved parmesan. Raw beets have a totally different texture than roasted — crisp and peppery instead of soft and sweet. My Rapid Prep Mandolin makes quick, even work of this in seconds!

4. Beet hummus

If you’re on Team Dirt, this is the recipe to start with: roasted beets blended into your favorite hummus recipe. It turns bright pink, tastes incredible, and is a great way to sneak beets in front of picky eaters who’d never touch a beet on a plate. The only decision now: what will you dip?

5. Pickled beets, the fast version

Sliced beets, warm vinegar-sugar-salt mixture, and a few hours in the fridge. None of the mushiness of the canned stuff — still has bite, still has crunch, still tastes fresh.

That’s the week. The tool that made this whole week easier: a good paring knife for peeling and cutting, plus my mandoline for the raw shaved salad. Beets stain, so having the right tools (and maybe gloves) makes cleanup a lot less dramatic. I highly recommend washing dishes sooner rather than later!

Which will you try first? What recipe would you add to the list? Let us know in the comments!