Mediterranean Falafel Salad Bowl

Embar on a culinary journey to the heart of Israel with this vibrant Mediterranean Falafel Salad Bowl. This dish combines the classic flavors of traditional falafel with an array of fresh vegetables and herbs, all brought together by a creamy tahini dressing. Perfect for a light yet satisfying lunch, it’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

“Falafel: A symphony of chickpeas, spices, and love.”

Highlights

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 450kcal

Ingredients

For the Falafel:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or chickpea flour
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Salad Bowl:

• 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and lettuce)
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• Pita bread or flatbread, for serving

For the Tahini Dressing:

• 1/3 cup tahini
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons water (adjust as needed)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Falafel: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Pulse until well combined but still chunky. Transfer mixture to a bowl, stir in flour, and form into small patties.

2. Fry the Falafel: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry falafel patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

3. Assemble the Salad Bowl: Divide mixed greens among four bowls. Top with cucumber, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and red onion slices.

4. Prepare the Tahini Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more water if needed.

5. Serve: Place falafel on top of each salad bowl and drizzle with tahini dressing. Serve with pita bread or flatbread on the side for dipping.

Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for this recipe, keep in mind that it may vary based on ingredients selected or substituted:

• Serving: 1 bowl
• Calories: 450kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 25g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 8g

Indulge in this Mediterranean Falafel Salad Bowl for a delightful and satisfying lunch. The combination of crispy falafel, fresh vegetables, and creamy tahini dressing is sure to delight your taste buds while offering a nutritious meal full of vibrant flavors. Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair with your favorite sides for an even more fulfilling experience!