Pantry Penne Pasta Salad, Prayers, and Not Panicking

The world as we have known it is all changing.  Everything is shifting to uncharted territories for many people all around the globe and we have found ourselves in a new time of uncertainty.

My firm has been no exception.  Over the course of this past week, one by one, each team member is now working from home.  I have spent the past week and half setting up nine remote home offices for various people.  Yesterday I went into the office to pack up my items.  I walked into a dark, deserted space and felt like the lone survivor in a zombie apocalypse movie.

I also just "hosted" my first Zoom Video Conference, which was very interesting to say the least.  Just as we were getting started and our managing partner was giving a speech, the other (comedic) partner emails out during our video conference this photo saying we looked like The Hollywood Squares (you have to be a child of the 60's/70's to appreciate this reference).  I lost it right there and proceeded to get an uncontrollable case of the giggles during my bosses speech!

I think laughter (and prayer) truly is the best medicine.

Since it looks like we are in for the long haul right now, thank God I had just enough of these ingredients to put together a big batch of pasta salad for lunches this coming week at home.

Be well and keep on praying.

Pantry Penne Pasta Salad

1 pound penne pasta, cooked as packaged directions, drain and cool
2 cooked chicken breasts, diced
1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
2 cups grape tomatoes, cut in half
1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
8 ounces crumbled feta cheese
8 ounce jar Kalamato olives, pitted and cut in half
1 bottle Newman's Balsamic Vinaigrette

In a very large bowl, add all ingredients (except Balsamic Vinaigrette).  Toss well to incorporate all ingredients.  Slowly add the vinaigrette, to the consistency of your liking.  (I ended up adding about 1 cup total).

Toss ingredients with vinaigrette.  Cover and chill for at least one hour before serving.

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