Strawberry Marshmallow Cake

1 cup miniature marshmallows
2 (10 ounce) packages frozen sliced strawberries
1 small box strawberry gelatin
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup shortening
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 eggs

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Generously grease bottom only of a 13 x 9-inch pan. Sprinkle marshmallows evenly over bottom of pan. Thoroughly combine completely thawed berries and sugar with dry gelatin; set aside.

In large mixing bowl, combine remaining ingredients. Blend at low speed until moistened. Beat 3 minutes at medium speed, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Pour batter evenly over marshmallows in prepared pan. Spoon berry mixture over batter. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.