3 tbsp. cornstarch
1/2 c. sugar
1 1/4 c. lemon-lime soft drink
4 to 6 drops red food coloring
1 qt. fresh strawberries
2 med. bananas, peeled
Lettuce leaves

EQUIPMENT:

Measuring cups
1 qt. batter bowl
Wire whisk
Wooden spoon
Potholders
Paper towels
Sm. cutting board
Sm. knife

Combine cornstarch and sugar in batter bowl; stir to mix. Whisk in the soft drink. Microwave on high for 1 minute and stir. Microwave on high for 1 minute stir with a wooden spoon. Microwave on high for 30 to 60 seconds until boiling and the mixture becomes thick and clear. Carefully remove from the microwave, using potholders.

Add enough food coloring to give it a pretty rosy pink color; whisk well. Let stand to cool at room temperature. Rinse the strawberries in cold water; do not soak. Remove the stems. Place strawberries with the pointed ends up on a paper towel. On a cutting board, cut bananas into 3/4 inch slices. Carefully fold the bananas and strawberries into the thickened pink mixture. Refrigerate until serving time. Serve on lettuce leaves as a salad or in pretty dishes for a dessert.