1 (29 oz.) can pears
1 (6 oz.) pkg. strawberry gelatin
1 (8 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, cubed
1 (8 oz.) carton frozen whipped topping, thawed
mandarin oranges (optional)

Drain pears, reserving juice. Chop pears and set aside. Add water to the juice to measure 3 cups. Place in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Transfer to a large bowl. Add gelatin and stir until dissolved. Whisk in cream cheese until smooth. Refrigerate until slightly thickened. Whisk in whipped topping until smooth. Add chopped pears. Transfer to a 13 x 9 x 2-inch dish. Cover and refrigerate until firm. Cut into squares. Garnish with mandarin oranges if desired.

Yield: 12 to 16 servings.

Note: This salad is both fruity and refreshing. You may use sugar-free gelatin.