Is there anything more satisfying than the crunch of a flavorful falafel that’s been baked to perfection? With this recipe, you can enjoy all the deliciousness without the guilt of deep-frying. Introducing the «Heavenly Oven-Baked Falafel Bowl with Creamy Tahini Dressing» — a wholesome, nutritious meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.

The inspiration for this recipe comes from my love of Middle Eastern cuisine, which I’ve adored since growing up in a food-loving family. Falafel has always held a special place in my heart because of its warmth, heartiness from chickpeas, and an incredible burst of flavors from the fresh herbs and spices embedded in each bite. It’s designed especially for those who love to enjoy a fulfilling meal without spending hours in the kitchen, and it’s perfect for casual dinners or even meal prep for the week!

Heavenly Oven-Baked Falafel Bowl

Ingredients

  • 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 small onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • 2 tbsp flour or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Tahini Dressing:
  • 1/3 cup tahini
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Water to thin
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the falafels from sticking and to achieve the perfect crisp texture.

2. Blend Falafel Ingredients

Combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, chili powder, flour, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse until you get a coarse mixture that binds together, but avoid overmixing to preserve some texture.

3. Shape and Bake Falafels

Moisten your hands to prevent sticking, and shape the chickpea mixture into balls or patties. Arrange them on the baking sheet, and bake for 25−30 minutes. Flip halfway to ensure even browning and crispness.

4. Prepare Tahini Dressing

While the falafels are in the oven, mix tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and enough water to create a smooth, pourable dressing. Add salt to taste.

5. Assemble the Bowl

Start with a base of your choice of greens in a bowl, layer the crispy falafels, and pour over the creamy tahini dressing. Feel free to jazz it up with extras like chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, or olives for added flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines solo, but you can serve it with warm pita bread, a side of hummus, or pickled vegetables to elevate the Mediterranean vibes. It makes for a hearty lunch or a vibrant dinner that pleases both the eyes and palate.