Earth hour will start this evening at 8.30pm – 9.30pm Local time.
So what is WWF’s Earth Hour all about?
The celebration started back in 2007 with Australia leading the way, now there are 172 countries taking part this year.
It’s a global celebration whereby we simply switch off the lights. The act of the switch off is not so much focused on the energy saving incurred during this hour (although that will be considerable). It’s more about raising awareness and forcing the spotlight on environmental issues facing our planet, encouraging the world to think and live more sustainably.
This concept fits totally with the ethos of Sustarian Living, so tonight we will switch off the lights and show our support!
To help you with the concept of preparing a dinner that requires no cooking, I suggest an Italian picnic by candlelight, picture the scene:
The TV and all mobile devices are off, the lights are out and the candles are on. The wine sits breathing. The cushions are thrown on the floor, along with a picnic blanket topped with olives, cheeses, crackers, dips, vegetables and these amazing rustic Bruschetta toasted bread. How romantic. A night off from the digital world that surrounds us and time to reflect on life, love and the universe.
- 1 Baguette or ciabatta Sliced (depends on how many mouths are feeding)
- 400g of Plump Pomodoro tomatoes
- 1 Small red onion very finely chopped
- 2 Cloves of garlic crushed
- 15g Toasted fennel seeds
- ½ Juice of a lime
- ½ Juice of a lemon
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Chopped basil
- Anchovies
- Black pepper & salt
- Dunk the tomatoes in Boiling water for a few mins until the skins crack.
- Drain the water & remove the skins from the tomatoes
- Chop the tomatoes and place in a bowl
- Add the toasted fennel seeds, crushed garlic and stir through
- Add the lemon and lime juice, then some olive oil until the mixture is coated
- Add a small slug of balsamic vinegar. Mix through.
- Add some chopped basil, save half back for topping at the end.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Get ahead: Make this in advance, place in the fridge to chill.
- Take the baguette/ ciabatta slice and toast.
- Allow to cool. you can also wrap this and use it later.
- Take the toasted bread and spread with the bruschetta topping
- Top with aa anchovy
- Finished by sprinkling the remaining chopped basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Tip: Do not top the bread until you are read to eat it otherwise it will go soggy.
- Relax and enjoy with a nice glass of wine and some accompanying olives, dips, vegetables and cheeses. Perfect for a candlelit Italian picnic.
Lights out for Earth Hour
Do you care about the future of our planet? Then please raise your glasses, toast to lights out for Earth Hour and show your support!
You can sign up and be part of this amazing event http://www.changeclimatechange.org/en_RW/overview
