Served this way, they generally evoke a smile rather than a frown.
1 pound parsnips, peeled
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 apples, peeled, cored and chopped
1 cup apple juice
3 tablespoons brown sugar
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
Trim the tops off the parsnips. Cut in half lengthwise and remove any woody core. Place in a skillet and cover with water. Add the salt. Bring to a boil and cook until barely tender, about 10 minutes.
Drain well and place in a baking dish. Sprinkle with chopped apple, then pour over the apple juice mixed with the brown sugar and nutmeg.
Bake at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes, or until the apples are done.