By Katy Dyer, RD

We are embarking upon one of the best times of the year: apple season! They are worth chomping on just because of their sweet and tart flavors, but luckily they are nutritious and very versatile as well. An apple is a simple and portable snack all on its own. During their peak season, consider adding them to baked goods, cereal, green salads, fruit salads and even soup. Apples are a good source of Vitamin C and fiber. Skip the juice and bite into a crunchy apple. You will get all the nutrition and fiber without added sugar.

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Here’s some fun, healthy ideas for snacks and meals to get the most out of this wonderful time of year:

• Apple peanut butter sandwiches. Slice apple horizontally, spread peanut butter on apple flesh and place another apple slice on top.
• Diced apples on oatmeal with cinnamon.
• Cut apple into quarters, sprinkle cinnamon on top and microwave for one minute.
• Mix diced red apple into your favorite chicken salad recipe.
• Core an apple and slice horizontally to create thin apple rings. Spray a cookie sheet with non-stick spray or use parchment paper. Lay slices out flat in a single layer and sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake in 200°F for about an hour. Flip apple slices after 30 minutes.
• Make apple quesadillas for an after school snack or serve along with a vegetable to for dinner. Place a whole wheat flour tortilla flat on the counter. Fill half of it with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 3-4 green apple slices. Folder over other side of tortilla and microwave or warm in skillet until cheese is melted. Whole grain bread can be substituted for the tortilla.
• Create a simple apple dip with a cup of nonfat plain yogurt and a teaspoon or cinnamon. The cinnamon could be substituted for apple pie spice or pumpkin pie spice.

Tell us – what is your favorite way to use apples?