Mandarin Orange Salad

This is not your Mama's recipe so you won't find marshmallows or coconut in this Mandarin Orange Salad. It's a creamy dessert that will become your family's favorite.

3 cups water

1 - 3 oz. pkg orange gelatin

1 - 3 oz pkg. instant vanilla pudding

1 - 3 oz. pkg tapioca pudding mix

1 - 15 oz 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.