Grandma Melvina's Orange "Salad"

Submitted by Cathryn Matheson

1 (large) can of crushed pineapple
1 large (6 oz.) or 2 small boxes of orange jello
1 large container (16 to 24 oz.) cottage cheese
1 container (8 oz.) cool whip
2-3 cans of mandarin oranges, drained

Stir together pineapple (with juice) and jello until no longer grainy. Combine with remaining ingredients, reserving 1/2 can of oranges to decorate the top, if desired. Pour into glass 9x13 (or any equivalent bowl/dish) and chill. Makes a ton, so the recipe is great halved, too.