Wash and dry beets.

Peel, if desired.

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

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

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

Add salt and cover loosely.

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

Stir. Cook for an additional minute.

Gently poke with a fork to test for tenderness.

Use hot pads to remove from the microwave.

Toss well and serve warm or chill before serving.

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.