Beets are an easy crop to grow in the home garden in the cooler months of the year. They range in color from white to deep red,and sometimes even striped. In addition, they may be round or long and cylindrical. They yield not only the delicious, earthy bulbs, but also nutritious greens.

Very few people are on the fence when it comes to beets: they either love them or hate them. People who hate them often claim the root tastes like dirt, whereas those who love them say they have a sweet, earthy quality.

Gnocchi are little pasta dumplings. The most common type is made with potatoes, but nearly any vegetable can be utilized to make the savory dish. Chef Jackie Letelier of The Letelier Food Company, shares a recipe for gnocchi that uses fresh beets and sweet potatoes.

In May, when the majority of gardeners in states north of the Mason-Dixon line are just planting their spring vegetable gardens, those of us in Texas and points south have been there and done that and have our sights set on summer.