Fresh beets can be boiled, roasted, microwaved, sauteed, steamed or charcoal roasted.

Wash the beets and trim off greens. Reserve greens for another use.

Place trimmed beets in a roasting pan and add a little water for steam. Roast the beets at 425 degrees F for 30 to 45 minutes (cover the pan with foil) or until the beets are easily pierced with a knife. Slip off the skins under running water and slice or dice.

If boiling, cook the beets for 20 to 30 minutes, or until tender.

If using a microwave oven, cook the beets with a little water for 8 to 15 minutes.

Here is another method for Roasting Beets:
http://localfoods.about.com/od/preparationtips/ss/How-To-Roast-Beets.htm