Lemon Rice Dessert

Description
This ice-cold dessert is made with real lemons and gelatin and mixed with almonds, cherries, and lemon peel to help the rice maintain its sweet consistency.

Ingredients

 * 1 3-ounce package lemon-flavored gelatin dessert
 * 1 cup boiling water
 * ½ cup cold water
 * 1 cup cooked rice, chilled
 * 1 ½ cups frozen whipped topping, thawed
 * 1 teaspoon lemon juice, optional
 * ¼ cup sliced almonds
 * ¼ cup chopped maraschino cherry
 * 1 tablespoon grated lemon peel

Directions

 * 1) Dissolve gelatin in boiling water; add cold water.
 * 2) Place the bowl in ice water and stir until gelatin is the consistency of unbeaten egg whites; mix with rice.
 * 3) Fold in whipped topping until smooth. Lightly fold in or mix up with lemon juice (optional), almonds, cherries, and lemon peel.
 * 4) Continue to stir gently (over ice) until thickened. Pour into dessert dishes. Cover and chill until ready to serve.