COVID-19, economic recession, wildfires&...the Conejo Valley community has endured so much. Manna was built for times like these--to be a safety net for those that are struggling with food insecurity in our community. What began in 1971 as a group of friends collecting food to support their neighbors has grown to a food pantry serving more than 7500 people annually, distributing more than 10,000 pounds of food monthly, and partnering with local organizations to meet the needs of the Conejo...
It’s Citrus Season! It’s almost impossible to drive down any house-lined street in the Conejo valley and not see an orange or lemon tree. In fact, now that April is here, I love driving through the orchards of Somis with the windows rolled down, enjoying the wafting scent of the beautiful orange blossoms. To celebrate this season and the beautiful fruit that accompany it, I’m sharing an easy-to-make olive cake recipe. What I really love about olive cake is that it doesn’t...
Hummus at Home Hummus is really one of the easiest and FAST things to make in the kitchen. Once you have all your ingredients placed on the counter, it’s a breeze to make. Not only is it a great dip but, I use it often in sandwiches too. The one ingredient many of us don’t have in our kitchens is tahini (sesame paste). By itself, it’s not one of my favorite pantry items but, you’ll always find a jar in my fridge. I add it to vegetarian soups and sauces, as well as other traditional Mediterranean...
When the COVID-19 pandemic first impacted her community last year, Geetika Peddada, currently a senior at Westlake High School, witnessed firsthand how the effects of the virus and ensuing lockdown rendered countless families unable to provide for their needs. However, she also saw the efforts by groups such as Manna Conejo Valley Food Bank to provide for these individuals. Inspired by their efforts, Geetika held several food drives while maintaining necessary COVID-19 precautions and safety guidelines. Through...
Cheesy Baked Eggs Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes Yield: 8 A Note From the Chef: My mom made this recipe for our brunch guests when I was growing up. I think of her fondly each time I make it. This is the easiest and tastiest egg dish I have ever made, hands-down. You can prepare all of the ingredients the night beforehand. Ingredients 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (or vegetable spray) 12 large eggs, beaten 16 ounces cheddar cheese,...