Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a cookie sheet or roasting pan by greasing. For ease of clean-up, cover the bottom with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the apples. Choose firm, crisp-fleshed apples that balance tartness with sweetness. Honeycrisp, Mutsu, pink lady or granny Smith are some varieties that hold up well in baking. Wash or peel if desired and cut into 1- or 2-inch cubes or slices, cutting around the core and discarding the seeds.

3. Place the apples in a roasting pan or baking sheet and toss with oil or melted butter and lemon juice to coat. Add seasoning as desired. As a dessert, apples pair well with spicy spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and cloves. Add extra sugar if you'd like them sweeter. For a savory side, consider fall herbs like thyme, marjoram or sage and add some salt to the mix.

4. Bake the apples for 15 minutes, then toss them and bake again for another 10 to 15 minutes or until browned and soft. Taste and adjust for seasoning. Serve over ice cream for a sweet treat, or tossed with quinoa, raisins and dressing for a sweet and savory warm winter salad.