Beets are a root vegetable and are highly nutritious and have great cardiovascular benefits. The beet dates back to ancient civilizations along the Mediterranean Sea for the medicinal properties of their tops. They are an excellent source of folate, fiber and phosphorous as well as Vitamin C and the beet tops are a great source of Vitamin A. They are a great addition to salads. Round, firm, smooth and a rich deep red, cooked fresh beets offer a tender, sweet, delicious flavor. The best beets are as small as a quarter or as big as a baseball.