courtesy of Ian Knauer

Beets are in season in July, but if you don't want to turn on your oven to roast them, try a stovetop braise with butter. It's faster and takes them to a wonderfully tender place. A flurry of fresh mint adds panache.

Ingredients
* 1 medium red onion, chopped * 1/2 stick unsalted butter * 1 1/2 pounds trimmed beets, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch pieces * 1 1/2 cups water * 2/3 cup chopped mint

Method

1. Cook onion in butter in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add beets, water, and 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper and simmer, covered, until beets are tender, about 20 minutes. Uncover and cook, stirring occasionally, until liquid has evaporated, 2 to 5 minutes. Cool slightly, then toss with mint and salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm or at room temperature.