Tasty Fig Layer Bars

1 c Brown sugar

1 c Margarine or butter

1/2 ts Salt

1 3/4 c Rolled oats

1 3/4 c Flour; sifted

1/2 ts Vanilla

--FILLING

-- 1 c Sugar

8 oz California dried figs

-- finely chopped 1/2 c Nuts, chopped (optional)

1/2 c Water; boiling

Combine sugar, figs, nuts and water in a medium saucepan. Heat for 15 minutes or until creamy, stirring frequently. Pour half the flour mixture into a well-greased shallow pan (8" x 12"). Layer with the filling, and spread remaining flour mixture over filling as evenly as possible. Bake at 350 F. for 30 to 35 minutes, or until lightly brown. Cool and serve. Each serving contains approximately: Calories 141, Fat 3.39 g, Dietary Fiber 1.98 g, Carbohydrates 27.3 g, Protein 1.81 g, Sodium 113 mg, Cholesterol 0 mg Calories from protein: 5% Calories from carbohydrates: 74% Calories from fats: 21% Source: Low-fat Recipes Featuring California Figs Reprinted with the permission of The California Fig Advisory Board Electronic format courtesy of Karen Mintzias