Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
Scrub sweet potatoes clean
Pat dry
Prick each sweet potato several times with a fork
Optionally coat lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt
Place sweet potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a foil-lined baking sheet
Bake until tender (about 35–60 minutes, depending on size)
Check doneness by piercing with a fork (it should slide in easily)
Remove and let rest 5–10 minutes before serving
Optional toppings: butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, maple syrup, or yogurt