Mandarin Orange Salad

This is a very popular family favorite and several friends have been asking for the recipe since we served it at Katie's graduation party. You only need six ingredients and it's so easy to put together. 

Double the recipe for a crowd

3 cups water

1 - 3 oz. pkg orange gelatin

1 - 3 oz pkg. instant vanilla pudding

1 - 3 oz. pkg tapioca pudding mix

1 - 15oz can mandarin oranges, drained

1 - 15 oz can crushed pineapple, drained

1 - 8 oz carton frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 - 2 TBSP of love

1. Open packages of pudding and pour into a small bowl so it's ready to use. 
2. In saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. 
   
3. Whisk in gelatin and pudding mixes.  
4. Return to a boil, stirring constantly, boil for 1 minute. I repeat, don't set the timer UNTIL the mixture comes to a full, rolling boil.  
5. Remove from heat and cool completely. I like to pour the mixture in a bowl so it cools a little quicker.
6. Make sure the fruit is well drained. I press the pineapple against the strainer with a spoon to squeeze out the juice. 
7. Gently fold in oranges, pineapple and whipped topping.  
8. Spoon into a serving bowl.  
9. Cover and chill at least 2 hours.