This Falafel Salad is a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy the rich flavors of the Middle East. Crispy, spiced falafel are paired with fresh vegetables, tangy tahini dressing, and a bright burst of herbs, making it a satisfying meal that’s also nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a light dinner, this salad is a great option. It can be customized with your favorite greens and toppings, and it’s perfect for meal prepping as well!
Ingredients:
For the falafel:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup radishes, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
For the tahini dressing:
- ¼ cup tahini
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2–3 tbsp water (to thin out the dressing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the falafel: Drain the soaked chickpeas and add them to a food processor with onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture becomes coarse but holds together when shaped. Form into small balls or patties.
- Fry the falafel: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the falafel in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides. Drain on a paper towel.
- Make the tahini dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and water. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting the consistency with more water if needed.
- Assemble the salad: On a large platter or individual bowls, arrange the mixed greens, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, radishes, parsley, and mint. Top with falafel.
- Serve: Drizzle the salad with tahini dressing and serve immediately. Enjoy!
This vibrant and healthy falafel salad is sure to become a favorite with its mix of crispy, savory falafel and fresh, bright vegetables.
