Orange Dreamsicle Salad

 Time

• Prep: 10 minutes

• Chill: 1–2 hours (optional but recommended)

 Serves

• 6–8 servings

 Ingredients

• 1 (3 oz / 85 g) box orange gelatin (Jell-O)

• 1 cup boiling water

• 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can mandarin oranges, well drained

• 1 cup mini marshmallows

• 1 cup cottage cheese (small curd works best)

• 1 (8 oz / 225 g) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed

• Optional: ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (extra dreamsicle flavor)

 Instructions

1. Dissolve gelatin
   In a large bowl, pour boiling water over the orange gelatin. Stir until completely dissolved.

2. Cool slightly
   Let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes (it should be liquid, not set).

3. Add mix-ins
   Stir in:

   • drained mandarin oranges

   • mini marshmallows

   • cottage cheese

   • vanilla extract (if using)

4. Fold in whipped topping
   Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined and fluffy.

5. Chill
   Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours to let flavors blend and texture set.

6. Serve
   Stir once before serving. Enjoy cold!

 Tips & Variations

• Extra creamy: Use full-fat cottage cheese

• No cottage cheese texture: Blend the cottage cheese first until smooth

• More fruit: Add crushed pineapple (well drained)

• Lighter version: Use sugar-free gelatin and light whipped topping

• Presentation: Serve in clear bowls or cups for a pretty orange color