Healthy Baked Falafel Bowls

Name: Healthy Baked Falafel Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 1 tablespoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional); 4 cups mixed greens; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 avocado, sliced; Tahini sauce for drizzling

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Collection

I love creating delicious meals that are not only satisfying but also good for you, and these Healthy Baked Falafel Bowls are one of my favorites. The combination of crispy baked falafels with fresh veggies and creamy tahini sauce never fails to excite my taste buds. With easy preparations and wholesome ingredients, this dish is perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner. Plus, it’s a colorful and nutritious way to enjoy plant-based goodness that's sure to please everyone at the table.

Created by

Prudence Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:30:35.021Z

When I first tried making falafel at home, I was surprised at how simple and rewarding it was. The process of blending chickpeas with spices and herbs created a fragrant mixture that was impossible to resist. Baking instead of frying made these falafels a healthier option, allowing me to enjoy all the flavor without the extra oil.

A key tip I've discovered over time is to let the mixture rest before shaping it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more vibrant taste. I love pairing these falafels with a tangy tahini dressing and an array of fresh veggies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy falafel without the hassle of frying
Packed with protein and fiber for a filling meal
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings and sauces

The Art of Baking Falafel

Baking falafel instead of frying not only makes this dish healthier but also simplifies the cooking process. When shaping the falafel, aim for uniform sizes to ensure even baking. If you're new to this technique, consider using an ice cream scoop for equal portions, which helps achieve that perfect golden brown exterior. The key is to watch them closely in the last few minutes of baking; look for golden edges and a firm texture for the best results.

If you're worried about your falafel mixture being too crumbly, one solution is to let it rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before shaping. This rest period allows the flavors to meld and can help the balls hold together better. Additionally, you can experiment by adding a tablespoon of tahini directly into the falafel mix for extra creaminess and flavor without compromising its baked nature.

Customizing Your Bowls

One of the best aspects of these Healthy Baked Falafel Bowls is their versatility. You can easily swap out the mixed greens for vegetables like spinach or kale, or even grains such as quinoa or couscous for added texture and nutrients. Adding roasted vegetables, like sweet potatoes or bell peppers, brings a warm, comforting element, making it an even heartier meal. Don't be afraid to mix and match according to your seasonal produce.

For an extra layer of flavor, try incorporating various toppings such as pickled red onions or shredded carrots. These add contrast in texture and taste, elevating your bowl from simple to extraordinary. If tahini sauce isn't your favorite, alternatives like tzatziki or hummus work well to add creaminess and a unique flavor profile.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare your Healthy Baked Falafel Bowls!

For the Falafel

1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

For the Bowls

4 cups mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 avocado, sliced
Tahini sauce for drizzling

Once you have all the ingredients ready, we can get started!

Instructions

Let’s get cooking!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Falafel Mixture

In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is coarse but holds together. If it's too wet, add breadcrumbs to help bind it.

Shape and Bake

Scoop out portions of the mixture and form small balls or patties. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Assemble the Bowls

In bowls, layer mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and sliced avocado. Top with the baked falafel and drizzle with tahini sauce.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add lemon juice or zest to the falafel mixture. You can also pair these bowls with a yogurt sauce for a creamy contrast!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're unable to find fresh herbs, dried parsley and cilantro can serve as a substitute, though fresh is always preferable for taste. A ratio of 1 tablespoon of dried herbs can replace 1/4 cup of fresh herbs, but be sure to adjust according to your preference. Additionally, canned chickpeas can be swapped with cooked dried chickpeas if you prefer to use them; just ensure they’re well-drained and not too mushy in texture.

For a gluten-free option, replace breadcrumbs with ground oats or almond flour, which both work effectively to bind and provide texture without compromising the flavor. When choosing your tahini sauce, consider homemade versions with just tahini, lemon, and garlic for a more personalized twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These falafel bowls are perfect for meal prep; you can prepare the falafel mixture and vegetables a day in advance. Store the uncooked falafel balls in an airtight container, lined with parchment paper, in the refrigerator, and bake them just before serving. This not only preserves freshness but also allows the flavors to deepen overnight.

If you've made a larger batch, baked falafel can be frozen for up to three months. Allow them to cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, and when you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the falafel?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked falafel patties. Just shape them and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet until frozen. Then transfer to a zip-top bag.

→ What can I use instead of tahini?

If you don't have tahini, you can substitute it with peanut butter or a simple yogurt dressing for a different flavor.

→ Can I use canned chickpeas?

Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are perfect for this recipe as they save time and effort without sacrificing flavor.

→ Are these falafel gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free breadcrumbs, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free!