Step 1: Prepare the Gelatin Mixture
- Dissolve the Gelatin: In a large bowl, dissolve the orange gelatin in 1 cup of hot water. Stir well until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
- Add Cold Water: Add 1/2 cup of cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Mix in the Pudding
- Add Pudding Mix: Once the gelatin mixture has cooled, whisk in the vanilla pudding mix until smooth and fully incorporated. The mixture will begin to thicken as you stir.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Fold in Cool Whip: Gently fold in the Cool Whip until the mixture is light and fluffy. Ensure there are no lumps and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Mandarins and Marshmallows: Carefully fold in the drained mandarin oranges and mini marshmallows, mixing until evenly distributed.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Chill: Transfer the mixture to a serving dish or individual bowls. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set and chilled.
- Serve: Once chilled, give the salad a gentle stir before serving. Garnish with additional mandarin oranges or marshmallows if desired.
See also VEGETABLE BEEF SOUP