COLD STRAWBERRY SOUFFLE

Steps:

• Extend depth of a 2-quart souffle dish or casserole by securing a 4-inch band of double thickness aluminum foil around top.
• Mix gelatin and 1 cup sugar in a saucepan;stir in 1 1/2 cups strawberries.
• Mix in beaten egg yolks.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly,just until mixture boils; remove from heat.
• Stir in remaining strawberries and lemon juice.
• Place pan in refrigerator or in a bowl of ice and water,stirring occasionally, until mixture mounds slightly when dropped from a spoon, about 15 to 30 minutes.
• Meanwhile, beat egg whites until foamy. Beat in remaining sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until egg whites are stiff and glossy.
• Fold cooled strawberry mixture into meringue.
• Beat cream in a chilled bowl until stiff and fold into meringue mixture.
• Fold in food coloring,as needed.
• Carefully spoon into prepared souffle dish and swirl top; refrigerate until firm, at least 4 hours or overnight.
• Just before serving, run the edge of a sharp knife inside foil band and remove band.
• Decorate top and sides of souffle with almonds and top of souffle with additional berries and whipped cream if desired.