Ingredients
Scale
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For the Falafel:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour or chickpea flour (for gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying or baking)
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For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, arugula, or spinach)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional, omit for vegan)
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For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin as needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Falafel:
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, baking soda, and flour. Pulse until a coarse mixture forms.
- Shape the mixture into small balls or patties.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the falafel for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup, garlic, and water until smooth. Adjust consistency with more water if needed.
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Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine greens, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and feta cheese (if using).
- Top with warm falafel and drizzle with tahini dressing. Serve immediately.
Notes
- To make this salad fully vegan, omit the feta cheese.
- The falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
- Serve with pita bread or hummus for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying, Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: : 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 8 g
- Protein: 10 g
Keywords: falafel salad, healthy dinner, vegan salad, gluten-free, Middle Eastern