4 slices bacon, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
16 oz. bag frozen Mediterranean vegetables
1 1/2 c. instant rice
1 1/2 c. water
1 env. spaghetti sauce mix
8 oz. can tomato sauce
1 bay leaf, slightly crushed
Dash hot pepper sauce
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 c. sliced ripe olives
1 avocado, peeled and sliced

Fry bacon until crisp in 10 inch skillet; remove to paper towel. Pour off all but 2 tablespoons drippings. Saute garlic in drippings until lightly browned. Add vegetables; toss lightly. Add water and rice. Cover and simmer 3 to 4 minutes.

Combine spaghetti sauce mix with tomato sauce; pour over vegetables. Add bay leaf, hot pepper sauce, salt, and fried bacon. Simmer and stir until done, about 7 to 8 minutes. Remove bay leaf.

Turn into serving bowl. Sprinkle with sliced olives. Garnish with avocado slices. Makes 6 servings. NOTES: Mediterranean vegetables consist of a mixture of corn, peas, sliced celery, onions, and red and green peppers. Nutrition: 295 calories. Menu suggestions: Shake 'n Bake chicken, dairy dessert.