Cut the greens off the beet roots and rinse very well in cold water, then leave to drain. Bring to a boil in a pot of salted water and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes. Remove and drain.

Scrub the beet roots very well and trim off the root and stem ends. Place in a pot of cold salted water and boil gently for about a half hour to 45 minutes, until tender. Alternatively, place the beets in a roasting pan, cover and roast at 400F/200C for about 1 hour, until tender. Let the beets cool slightly, to handle, then peel. Cut the beetroots into rounds about 1/8-inch thick.

Whisk together the 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 teaspoons vinegar or balsamic, garlic and salt. Toss the beetroot slices in the dressing and place in the center of a serving platter. Strew the greens around the beets and dress with additional olive oil, vinegar and salt. Serve warm or at room temperature.