If you can't stand the heat. . .

You're probably somewhere back East, and I feel for you.  One of the reasons I pulled up tent stakes and moved out to California was the temperate climate.  I wilt like a calla lily in hot weather.

Here in California, we've finally lapsed into summer mode - cool and foggy in the morning, burning off to be a bit sunnier in the afternoon, and then the fog comes back in the evening.  So I took the opportunity to roast some beets for about an hour and ten minutes at 450 degrees.  If you're reading this in Atlanta, you don't have to keep going, but that's the end of the hot part for today.

I'll use the beets tomorrow along with their greens.  I know, you probably tear the tops off the beets and throw them away - but not only are they edible, they're pretty tasty and good for you besides.  A lot of times when we buy beets the tops are wilted, but these were beautiful, green and fresh.  I had to wash them in 4 changes of water to get the sand and grit off.  I put them in the basket of my salad spinner and fill the spinner up with water.  I wish them around a little and then let them sit while the grit falls off.  Then I lift out the basket and change the water until I don't see anymore grit or sand, and spin them dry. You can store them in the fridge like any other hearty green.

Tomorrow night I will finish the saga of the beets.  Until then, I'll see you at the market!