Book Cooks: Green Jell-O from Emily Wing Smith

So...can food be religious? That's the question sparked by Emily Wing Smith's contribution, which precipitated a discussion between Emily and me about whether or not Jell-O could strictly be considered Mormon.

Emily: Here is my Green Jell-O recipe (served at Mormon weddings and funerals).

Me: My mom (not Mormon, but apparently a Jell-O covert) used to make lime Jell-O salad, very similar except I think it also involved some amount of sour cream! Jell-O: not just for Mormons anymore! (My dad grew up Mormon, so am I allowed to joke?)

Me (again): I hope I didn't totally offend you. Here's one you can lob back: "Lattes: not just for Seattle Presbyterians anymore!"

Emily: No, no you didn't offend me at all--if anything, I was being judgmental in presuming only Mormons eat lime Jell-O. Not so! All can partake!

So everybody, you heard it here. All can partake of Lime Jell-O, and while you're at it, read Emily's truly amazing book, which I absolutely loved, THE WAY HE LIVED. You will become an Emily Wing Smith fan, too! (And for further discussion of religion and books, check out her wonderful post: What Does Your Religion Say About You, inspired by her recent write-up in SLJ). And enjoy Emily's awesome green Jell-O!

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This recipe ties into my YA novel THE WAY HE LIVED:

Green Jell-O
(served at Mormon weddings and funerals)

Prepare lime gelatin according to package directions.

If you're a Jell-O purist, simply refrigerate until set. Garnish with a dollop of Cool Whip.

However, variations on this recipe abound! In that case, refrigerate until partially set (about an hour), then add:

one 8-oz. can crushed pineapple (drained)
and/or one can fruit cocktail
and/or 1/2 cup shredded carrot

For extra class, pour liquid gelatin into a decorative mold (coat mold with non-stick cooking spray before filling for easy removal).

Be creative! The sky's the limit with this dessert.

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Thanks to Emily, one of the nicest YA authors I know!