Save to Pinterest This vibrant Falafel Bowl is a Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece that combines the crunch of perfectly fried falafel with the creamy richness of hummus and tangy tzatziki. It is an ideal meal for anyone seeking a fresh, plant-based dinner that is both satisfying and packed with traditional Middle Eastern flavors.
Save to Pinterest Whether you are using high-quality store-bought ingredients or preparing your own from scratch, this bowl is designed for maximum flavor and visual appeal. The drizzle of nutty tahini and the brightness of fresh lemon make every bite a celebration of wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
- Falafel: 12 store-bought or homemade falafel balls
- Spreads & Sauces: 1 cup hummus, 1 cup tzatziki, 1/4 cup tahini sauce
- Fresh Greens & Vegetables: 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, or romaine), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/2 cup cucumber (sliced), 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced), 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- Garnishes: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped), 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, lemon wedges
Instructions
- Step 1
- If using store-bought falafel, warm according to package instructions. If homemade, cook as desired and set aside.
- Step 2
- Arrange a generous scoop of hummus and tzatziki on each bowl or plate.
- Step 3
- Top with a bed of fresh salad greens, then arrange cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and shredded carrots over the greens.
- Step 4
- Place 3 falafel balls per serving on top of the vegetables.
- Step 5
- Drizzle tahini sauce over the bowl.
- Step 6
- Garnish with fresh parsley, toasted sesame seeds, and a lemon wedge.
- Step 7
- Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a frying pan to warm or cook your falafel will ensure a crispy exterior. Be mindful of allergens: this dish contains sesame (tahini, hummus) and dairy (tzatziki), and store-bought falafel may contain gluten.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, simply use dairy-free tzatziki or omit it entirely. You can add cooked quinoa or brown rice for more substance, or include pickled vegetables and kalamata olives for a punchier flavor profile.
Serviervorschläge
This Falafel Bowl pairs wonderfully with a refreshing glass of hot mint tea or a crisp white wine. Serve it with warm pita bread to make the most of the hummus and sauces.
Save to Pinterest At 410 calories per serving, this bowl provides 12g of protein and a balanced mix of healthy fats and carbohydrates. Enjoy this nutritious and flavorful Middle Eastern journey from the comfort of your home.
Questions & Answers About This Recipe
- → Can I make the falafel from scratch?
Absolutely. Homemade falafel requires soaking dried chickpeas overnight, then blending with parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin, and coriander. Form balls and fry until golden crispy. Plan extra time—roughly 24 hours for soaking plus 30 minutes preparation.
- → What's the best way to warm store-bought falafel?
Oven heating delivers the crispiest results. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. Air fryers work excellently too—cook at 375°F for 6-8 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which makes them soggy rather than crispy.
- → Can I prepare components ahead?
Yes. Wash and chop vegetables up to 2 days in advance, storing separately in airtight containers. Prepare tahini sauce and keep refrigerated for up to a week. Warm falafel just before serving for optimal texture.
- → How do I make this vegan?
Replace dairy-based tzatziki with coconut yogurt blended with cucumber, dill, garlic, and lemon juice. Many store-bought hummus brands are already vegan, but double-check ingredients. Most falafel is naturally vegan, though some varieties include egg.
- → What can I substitute for tahini?
If tahini is unavailable, try cashew butter blended with lemon and a pinch of salt for similar creaminess. Greek yogurt thinned with olive oil works for non-vegan versions. Peanut butter alters flavor but provides comparable texture.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep components separate for best results. Store vegetables in a container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. Falafel stays crisp for 2-3 days when refrigerated uncovered. Reheat falafel in the oven or air fryer before assembling fresh bowls.