For Kristin Leonescu, food isn’t just about flavors—it’s about love, connection, and the memories we create around the table. As the heart and soul behind the Instagram page @HalfTomatoHalfPotato, Kristin shares more than recipes; she shares pieces of her life, culture, and the joy that food brings to it all.
Through authentic stories, easy-to-follow recipes, small-event catering, and the occasional cameo from her dogs, Kristin has built a community that feels more like family. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, a new recipe to try, or someone to bring flavor and heart to your next event. Kristin, who is a proud mix of Italian and Irish heritage, brings her unique perspective to her page @HalfTomatoHalfPotato.
For our January issue, Kristin has whipped up a healthy salad that is flavorful and filling. This chickpea and white bean salad is a perfect combo of crunchy cucumbers, sweet red bell peppers, and creamy feta, all tossed in a tangy red wine vinaigrette. Ready in just 5 minutes and loaded with 66g of protein, it’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (like cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 large cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
Tangy Red Wine Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp @lawrysseasoning garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, white beans, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Add parsley if using.
2. In a small bowl whisk together the dressing ingredients until well combined.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated, then add feta and toss again.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Enjoy as a main dish or a side!
Tip: This salad gets even better as it sits, so it’s a great option for meal prepping! Plus, with 66g of protein, it’s as nutritious as it is tasty.