Delicious Falafel Bowl with Baked Falafel and Fresh Toppings

Flavorful, vibrant, and utterly satisfying, the Falafel Bowl is not just a meal; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds. The moment you take a whiff of those baked falafel balls, you’ll be transported to a bustling Mediterranean market filled with delicious aromas of spices and fresh ingredients, promising a taste sensation like no other. This delightful dish is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to impressing friends at a lively gathering.

As you prepare your bowl, think of it as an art form, blending textures and colors into a masterpiece of healthy eating. The crunch of pickled cucumbers, the creaminess of hummus, and the heartiness of roasted chickpeas create a symphony of flavor, making each bite a little celebration. Plus, if you’re like me and often find yourself swamped by fast-food temptations, this Falafel Bowl will remind you just how tantalizing homemade food can be!

Ingredients for Falafel Bowl

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Falafel Bowl:

1 recipe Baked Falafel – The star of the show, these falafel are baked for a healthier twist on a classic.
1 handful Pickled Cucumber and Onions – Add zingy flavors that perfectly complement the falafel and keep things fresh.
1 dollop hummus – Creamy, dreamy goodness that ties all the elements together with a rich texture.
1 handful sliced or chopped tomatoes – Juicy and bright, they introduce a refreshing crunch to every bite.
1 handful olives – For a briny kick that enhances the overall flavor profile of your bowl.
1 handful baby arugula – This peppery green adds a lovely contrast and a nutrient boost.
Feta (optional) – Crumbled feta can elevate your bowl with tangy creaminess, but feel free to skip it for a dairy-free version.
Olive oil, to drizzle – A drizzle of quality olive oil finishes off the bowl beautifully, enhancing flavor and nutrition.
Sumac (optional) – A sprinkle of this tangy spice can add an unexpected pop to your dish.

How to Make Falafel Bowl

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Falafel Bowl:

Step 1: Start Pickling
Begin by preparing the pickled cucumbers and onions. It’s best to make this at least 30 minutes in advance or even the day before to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then dab off any excess moisture with a paper towel for the best baked falafel.

Step 3: Blend the Base
In a food processor, add the rolled oats and process until they resemble a flour texture; this will help bind your falafel. Transfer to a bowl, and set aside.

Step 4: Mince Away
Throw in the red onion and garlic with the cilantro into the food processor. Pulse them until finely minced. Scrape down the bowl as necessary to ensure an even mix.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Add the drained chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, cumin, coriander, baking powder, kosher salt, and pepper into the food processor. Blend until well combined, scraping down as needed. Then, mix in the processed oats and pulse until you achieve a uniform dough.

Step 6: Shape and Bake
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the falafel dough into 1½ tablespoon-sized balls, then flatten them into discs. Brush with olive oil and bake for 15 minutes. Flip the discs, brush again, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until beautifully golden brown.

Now, after letting them cool for a few moments—if you can resist the urge to dive right in—it’s time to assemble your Falafel Bowl. Begin with a bed of baby arugula and a generous dollop of hummus, then artfully arrange slices of tomatoes, your pickled cucumbers and onions, olives, and feta if you’re using it. Stack on those perfectly baked falafel balls and finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sumac for that extra pop!

Serve it up with pride, knowing you’ve created a bowl of happiness that will not only fill stomachs but warm hearts too.

Perfecting Falafel Bowl Cooking Process

Start by making the pickled cucumbers and onions, as they need about 30 minutes to marinate. While they pickle, prep the falafel by combining ingredients and baking them until golden. Lastly, assemble your bowl, layering in those colorful, fresh toppings for a satisfying finish.

Add Your Touch to Falafel Bowl

Feel free to make this Falafel Bowl your own by swapping chickpeas for black beans or adding roasted vegetables. For extra zest, consider using flavored hummus or scattering fresh herbs like mint or parsley on top for a delightful twist.

Storing & Reheating Falafel Bowl

To store your Falafel Bowl, keep components separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, gently warm the falafel in the oven for crispness while keeping fresh ingredients cool.

Some of my best memories come from sharing this Falafel Bowl with friends at outdoor picnics, where everyone learned that chickpeas are truly majestic when paired with laughter and good company.

FAQs About Falafel Bowl

What is Falafel Bowl?

A Falafel Bowl is a vibrant, nutritious dish that features baked falafel as the star ingredient. It’s typically served over a bed of fresh greens, such as arugula, and adorned with colorful toppings like pickled cucumbers and onions, hummus, and olives. This bowl is a delightful medley of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option. Perfect for customizing, it’s equally delicious for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, allowing you to bring Mediterranean-inspired goodness into your week.

How do I make Baked Falafel for the Falafel Bowl?

To create the perfect baked falafel for your Falafel Bowl, start by blending chickpeas, rolled oats, red onion, garlic, cilantro, tahini, and spices in a food processor. Form the mixture into balls and flatten them into discs. Bake in the oven until golden brown for a crispy texture without frying. This method not only enhances flavor but keeps the dish healthier, making it a satisfying choice for anyone, including those looking to reduce oil intake.

What toppings go well with a Falafel Bowl?

A Falafel Bowl is incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. Classic options include fresh baby arugula, sliced tomatoes, and a dollop of creamy hummus. For an extra zing, consider adding pickled cucumbers and onions or olives. Feta cheese is a fabulous optional addition for those who enjoy a little tang. Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like avocados or roasted vegetables to elevate your bowl and match your taste preferences.

Can I meal prep Falafel Bowls in advance?

Absolutely! Meal prepping Falafel Bowls is an excellent idea for busy weeks. Prepare the baked falafel and pickled veggies in advance, and store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Assemble your bowls with fresh greens and toppings when you’re ready to eat. This method not only saves time but also ensures you always have a healthy meal option at hand, making it easier to enjoy Mediterranean flavors throughout the week.

Conclusion for Falafel Bowl

In summary, the Falafel Bowl offers a delightful, healthy meal that combines rich flavors with vibrant ingredients. From making baked falafel to assembling it with fresh toppings, this dish provides versatility and satisfaction on every level. Whether for meal prep or a cozy dinner, the Falafel Bowl invites everyone to indulge in a refreshing, wholesome culinary experience packed with goodness. Dive in and enjoy every colorful bite!

Falafel Bowl

This delicious Falafel Bowl features baked falafel, fresh toppings, and vibrant ingredients for a nutritious meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Cooling Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 bowls

Course: Salads

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Baked Falafel

• 15 ounce canned chickpeas drained and rinsed
• ½ cup Old Fashioned rolled oats
• ¼ cup red onion roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic peeled
• ½ cup cilantro leaves and tender stems
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• fresh ground black pepper to taste

Bowl Component

• 1 handful pickled cucumber and onions
• 1 dollop hummus
• 1 handful sliced or chopped tomatoes
• 1 handful olives
• 1 handful baby arugula
• feta optional
• olive oil to drizzle
• sumac optional

Equipment

• food processor
• Baking sheet
• parchment paper

Method

 

Pickled Cucumber and Onions

1. Start the Pickled Cucumbers and Onions, which take 30 minutes to pickle (or make in advance).

Baked Falafel

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Drain and rinse the chickpeas. Dab the chickpeas with a paper towel to remove extra moisture.
2. Place the rolled oats in a bowl of a food processor. Process for 30 seconds to 1 minute until they are the texture of flour. Pour into a separate bowl and set aside.
3. Place the red onion and garlic into the food processor with the cilantro and pulse until finely minced, scraping down the bowl as needed.
4. Add the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper to the food processor. Process until combined, stopping to scrape the bowl once. Then add the oats and pulse until a uniform dough forms.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use your hands to roll the dough into 16 balls that are 1 ½ tablespoons each, then flatten them into discs.
6. Place the discs on the baking sheet and brush the tops with olive oil. Bake for 15 minutes until golden brown, then flip and brush with more olive oil. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Allow the falafel to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Assemble the Bowl

1. To assemble the bowl, add baby arugula and a dollop of hummus to a shallow bowl. Surround with tomatoes, pickled cucumbers and onions, olives, and feta cheese (if using). Add the falafel and drizzle with olive oil. If desired, sprinkle with sumac.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 14gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with different toppings or ingredients as desired.

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