1. Tuck a few California figs into a plastic bag to tote to the office, to school, to the game or park, for a quick snack. Easy to eat and satisfying to a sweet tooth.

2. Keep a container of figs in a desk drawer at work, to satisfy late afternoon munchies, or to nibble at coffee break time.

3. Slice a few California figs to add to tossed green salads. They add delightful sweetness and texture, as well as fiber.

4. Sweeten up mashed or cubed winter squash or sweet potatoes with some chopped California figs. The figs add a richness of their own, so you can skip the butter or margarine.

5. Blend low-fat cream, ricotta or cottage cheese with some California figs to create a great spread for toast or bagels, or as a dip for sliced fresh fruit.

6. Chop some California figs to scatter over instant or regular oatmeal or any cold cereal. Skip the sugar and enjoy the Figgie flavor and crunch.