Big Boy Strawberry Pie

1 C. water
3/4 C. white sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
2 Tbsp. cornstarch
1/4 tsp. red food coloring
1 C. all-purpose flour
1/2 C. margarine
3 Tbsp. confectioners' sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 3/4 C. stemmed and washed strawberries (1 quart)

Mix together the water, white sugar, salt, cornstarch and food coloring and cook in a saucepan for about 5 minutes or until thickened. Set aside to cool. Make the crust by combining flour, margarine, sugar and vanilla - press this into a 9 inch pie pan. Prick all over and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until lightly browned. When crust is cool, place berries in the shell and pour the thickened mixture over the top. Refrigerate. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or whipped dessert topping.