Crispy Baked Falafel Bowl with Lemon Garlic Hummus and Pickled Veggies
Crispy oven-baked falafel served over warm grains with creamy lemon garlic hummus, quick-pickled onions, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. It’s a plant-powered bowl bursting with Mediterranean flavor and texture!
⏱️ Time:
- Prep: 20 minutes
- Cook: 25 minutes
- Total: 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Baked Falafel:
1 can chickpeas, drained and patted dry
½ small red onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves
½ cup fresh parsley
2 tbsp flour or chickpea flour
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground coriander
½ tsp baking powder
Salt & pepper
2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
For the Bowl:
1 cup cooked quinoa, brown rice, or bulgur
½ cucumber, chopped
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Pickled red onion (see below)
Fresh mint or parsley for garnish
Optional: olives, feta, chili flakes
Lemon Garlic Hummus:
½ cup hummus
Juice of ½ lemon
1 small garlic clove, grated
1 tbsp olive oil
1–2 tbsp water to thin
Quick Pickled Onion:
½ red onion, thinly sliced
3 tbsp vinegar (apple cider or white)
½ tsp sugar
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Pickle the Onions:
Mix vinegar, sugar, and salt. Add sliced onions and set aside to quick-pickle.
2. Make the Falafel:
In a food processor, blend chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, flour, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper until coarse and sticky (don’t over-blend). Form into balls or patties. Place on a lined tray and brush with olive oil.
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
3. Make the Hummus Drizzle:
Whisk hummus with lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and water until smooth and pourable.
4. Assemble the Bowl:
In bowls, add cooked grains. Top with falafel, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, pickled onions, and herbs. Drizzle with lemon garlic hummus and sprinkle with optional toppings.
Tips:
- Air fryer works great for falafel too (180°C for 12–15 min).
- Use store-bought hummus to save time—just add lemon and garlic for a boost!
- Want extra crunch? Add toasted pine nuts or seeds.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make the falafel mix ahead of time?
Yes! Keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
Q: Can I freeze baked falafel?
Absolutely—freeze and reheat in the oven or air fryer for quick meals.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~450
Protein: 18g
Carbs: 40g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 9g