Eat This: Salads That Taste Like Other Stuff

Each of these salads is a great potluck or patio party addition, and they can be served at the same event, since they really don't overlap.

PIZZA PASTA SALAD

1 lb. cooked pasta, such as twists or rotini
1 cup sliced pepperoni
1 cup sliced provolone cheese
1½ cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 -1 cup Italian dressing
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
1/2 cup sliced green pepper
Salt and pepper to taste

Add drained pasta to a large bowl. Cut pepperoni into quarters and slice provolone cheese into matchstick pieces (or dice into cubes); add pepperoni and cheese to pasta. Add tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salad dressing, green peppers, salt and pepper and mix well. Chill before serving.

BLT SALAD

1 lb. bacon
¾ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup milk
1 tsp. garlic powder
1/8 tsp. ground black pepper
Salt to taste
1 head romaine lettuce, rinsed, dried and shredded
2 large tomatoes, chopped
2 cups seasoned croutons

Cook bacon in deep skillet over medium-high heat, turning frequently, until evenly browned. Drain, crumble and set aside. In blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, milk, garlic powder and black pepper. Blend until smooth. Season with salt to taste. Combine lettuce, tomatoes, bacon and croutons in a large bowl, add dressing, toss and serve immediately.