Let’s face facts. Budgets can become tight during the holidays. To feed a large family, you need to know how to spend a dime. One key: inexpensive side dishes. This California Raisin Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe will save you money. It’s a classic side dish that’s affordable at less than one dollar per serving. California Raisins add a sweet, savory flavor to the salty bacon and savory Brussels sprouts.

The United States Department of Agriculture ranks raisins as the most cost-effective dried fruit. But, you can also feel good about using all-natural raisins. California RaisinsTo any dish. This tiny, but powerful fruit is rich in fiber, potassium, antioxidants and only a quarter cup of raisins gives you a portion of the fruit. This recipe, and many others can be found at loveyourraisins.com.

CALIFORNIA RAISIN BACON BRUSSELS STROUTS

Makes approximately 4-6 servings

Cost per Serving: $0.62-$0.93

Ingredients:

3 slices Hickory Smoked Bacon, cut into 1/4 inch slices*

1 lb Brussels sprouts

1 small, chopped yellow onion

1/2 cup California Raisins

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

1/4 teaspoon red pepperflakes (season to taste).

Directions

Wash and cut the Brussels sprouts into quarters. Place in a microwave-safe container with 1 teaspoon water. Cover with a towel and microwave for 5 minutes on HIGH Cook bacon in a large skillet on medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and set aside. Cook the onion over medium heat until tender. Stir in the cooked Brussels sprouts, raisins and salt. Continue to cook until it is heated through. Sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces over the top. Make a large serving platter and garnish it with bacon pieces.

* For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and substitute with olive oil or coconut oil.

Calories 196, Total Fat 11g (sat 4, mono 5, 2g poly); Cholesterol 16mg. Carbohydrates 22g. Fiber 4g. Iron 1.7mg. Sodium 331mg. Calcium 79mg.