Falafel salad
We have a new favourite way to enjoy falafel. This vibrant Middle Eastern-inspired salad combines crispy falafel, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It is very easy to make, giving you a quick lunch and dinner option. Once you have tried it, do not be surprised if this falafel salad recipe becomes a regular in your weekly rotation.
Ingredients
Falafel
|
Chickpeas (400 g)
|
1 can |
|---|---|
|
Small onion
|
1 |
|
Garlic clove
|
1 |
|
Ground cumin
|
1 tsp |
|
Chilli powder
|
¼ tsp |
|
Ground coriander
|
½ tsp |
|
Paprika
|
½ tsp |
|
Ground cardamom
|
¼ tsp |
|
Salt
|
1 tsp |
|
Baking powder
|
½ tsp |
|
Flour
|
2 tbsp |
Dressing
| 2 tbsp | |
|
Greek yoghurt
|
2 tbsp |
|
Tahini
|
1 tsp |
|
Lemon juice, freshly squeezed
|
1 tbsp |
|
A pinch chilli powder
|
Vegetables
|
Red onion
|
1 |
|---|---|
|
Spring onions
|
2 |
|
Fresh red chilli
|
½ |
|
Rocket
|
50 g |
|
Cherry tomatoes
|
150 g |
Instructions
Falafel
Dressing
Vegetables
Recommended information
Serving suggestion
Choose quality ingredients
The better your ingredients, the better your salad. For soft, flavourful falafel, go with organic chickpeas – they bring a richer taste and smoother texture. Make sure your spices are fresh, too; cumin and coriander lose their punch over time, and you want that bold, aromatic taste in every bite. Do not forget the vegetables! Make sure you get ripe tomatoes, firm red onions, chillies with shiny skins, crisp spring onions, and fresh rocket.
FAQ: Questions about falafel salad
Curious about falafel salad? Below, you will find answers to common questions about it. It might be worth a quick read before you get started on the recipe.
What is falafel?
Falafel are tasty patties made from chickpeas, spices, onions, and herbs. They are crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and absolutely delicious. Falafel has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries, originating in regions like Egypt and Syria – and they have been winning hearts and tastebuds ever since.
Why does my falafel fall apart or turn mushy?
If your falafel is crumbling or turning out too soft, the mixture probably is not binding properly. Make sure you blend the ingredients thoroughly in a food processor until they hold together well. Too much flour or cornstarch can make things gummy, so go easy on those. A small amount of water from soaking chickpeas can help with texture.
How can I serve falafel salad?
Serve the falafel salad as a satisfying meal all on its own. Thanks to the combination of falafel and fresh, crunchy veggies, you do not need anything else. However, it does go well with warm pitta or flatbread to scoop up the dressing.
Can I prepare falafel salad in advance?
Absolutely. You can prep the falafel mixture in advance and shape it into patties, ready to chill in the fridge or stash in the freezer. They cook beautifully straight from frozen. You can also chop your salad ingredients and mix the dressing ahead of time – just keep everything in separate containers in the fridge for up to 1 day. When you are ready to eat, all that is left is to toss it together and dig in.
Nutritional values
Nutritional value, per
528 Kcal
| Fibre | 23.4 gram fibers |
| Protein | 26.7 gram |
| Carbohydrates | 81.1 gram |
| Fat | 10.2 gram |
Wonderful homemade falafel salad
Here is a falafel salad that does not hold back on flavour. Crispy, golden falafel made from chickpeas and warming spices delivers that satisfying crunch you crave, balanced by a rich, tangy dressing. Our recipe gives you a tasty salad that is anything but ordinary and one you will want to come back to again and again.
With fresh, juicy, and crunchy vegetables
No great salad is complete without a colourful mix of veggies, and this one brings the best of the bunch. Peppery rocket leaves, sweet cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onions set the stage. Spring onions add a little snap, while slices of fresh red chilli turn up the heat just enough to make your tastebuds tingle.
Served with a creamy, nutty dressing
Our falafel salad would still be good without the dressing, but we simply cannot resist the creamy, nutty finish that ties all the ingredients together. And as a plus, this dressing is very easy to make with just a few ingredients.
Creamy white cheese and thick Greek yoghurt bring smoothness and richness, while tahini adds an irresistible nutty note. A splash of lemon juice contributes a fresh zing, and a pinch of chilli powder offers a subtle spiciness. You might even find yourself making extra just to have the dressing ready in the fridge.
Enjoy a magnificent Middle Eastern meal
This falafel salad recipe brings together everything we love about Middle Eastern cooking – bold spices, fresh herbs, and the joy of sharing good food. Crispy chickpea falafel seasoned with warm spices like cumin and coriander, layered over crunchy vegetables, and finished with a creamy tahini-yoghurt dressing – this is feel-good food at its best.
You do not need a bustling souk or a sun-drenched courtyard to enjoy it, either. This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch, an easy dinner, or a last-minute feast with friends. So simple yet so satisfying!
Hungry for more? Discover more Middle Eastern-inspired recipes with our rich and saucy shakshuka with cheese, tender ras el hanout lamb, or refreshing aubergine salad.
Take it in new directions
Give this falafel salad recipe a twist with a few simple additions. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a nutty aroma and a light crunch that complements the creamy dressing. For a touch of sweetness, add thin slices of dried apricots; their natural fruitiness adds contrast to the savoury falafel. If you enjoy some boldness, crumble a few black olives over the salad to bring a salty kick that highlights the fresh vegetables.
Another option is to scatter a handful of roasted pine nuts over the salad. Their warm, buttery notes provide some extra richness. Or, try thinly sliced radishes for a crisp bite and a peppery hint that livens up the mix.
