Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Wash the pears thoroughly and pat them dry. Then, using a paring knife, carefully core the pears from the bottom, leaving the stems intact. This creates a cavity for even baking.

In a small bowl, mix the honey, ground ginger, ground cardamom or cinnamon, and lemon juice if using. Stir until well combined.

Place the pears upright in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the honey mixture over the pears, making sure to get some inside the cavities.

If using, sprinkle the chopped nuts or seeds into the cavities and over the pears, so they toast up nicely.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the pears are tender and golden brown.

Once the pears are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with any remaining juices from the baking dish.