Falafel bowls are a great way to put crispy, delicious falafel and lots of other ingredients to use! Packed with fresh veggies, creamy hummus, and crispy falafel.

Really good falafel, made with tons of fresh herbs and other seasonings, is so flavorful that I’m always looking for new ways to eat it. Falafel wraps are a favorite, and so are falafel bowls. Bowls are a great way to eat all kinds of yummy things tucked into a bowl and topped with the star of the show, falafel!

What is a Falafel Bowl?

A falafel bowl is a delicious and nutritious meal that captures the vibrant flavors of the Middle East. At its core, it features crispy, deep-fried or baked falafel balls made from ground chickpeas and peeled fava beans, tons of fresh herbs, and spices. These flavorful balls are typically served over a base of grains, such as couscous, quinoa, or rice, and topped with fresh vegetables, creamy sauces, and sometimes pickled items, creating a satisfying and versatile dish. Falafel bowls are not only visually appealing but also packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. With the right falafel bowl ingredients, this is a healthy falafel recipe for a wholesome meal you can enjoy and share.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This falafel bowl recipe is perfect for a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Here are some reasons why you’ll fall in love with it as much as I have:

1. Nutrient-Dense: With falafel ingredients like chickpeas and fava beans, then other fresh veggies and whole grains, this nutritious bowl recipe offers a great balance of nutrients.
2. Customizable: You can easily adapt the bowl to your own taste and what’s in the refrigerator at any given time. You can lean toward spice, creaminess, or a crunch factor or, like me, all three!
3. Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly: This meal can be entirely plant-based, making it a great option for anyone and especially helpful for vegetarians and vegans, while still being filling and satisfying.
4. Meal Prep Friendly: Falafel bowls are perfect for meal prepping. You can make larger batches with your and store them for convenient meals throughout the week.

How to Make a Falafel Bowl

Making falafel bowls at home is simple and fun. Follow this delicious falafel bowl recipe to make your own falafel bowl from scratch:

Ingredients:

• 6 fried or baked falafel (use homemade falafel or prepared falafel)
• Olives. Any of your favorites are delicious, such as kalamata olives and green olives
• Hummus. This adds a lot of flavor and a kind of dip to the bowl. Use any flavor, from purchased hummus or homemade hummus. Be sure to drizzle the hummus with olive oil.
• Fresh herbs. Dust your favorites over the top of the bowl, like parsley, mint, cilantro or basil
• Greek yogurt or labneh. A dollop in the bowl adds great creaminess.
• Tahini sauce or yogurt sauce for drizzling over the top.
• Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, radishes, red onions, and any other veggie favorites
• Fresh salad. I like a simple tomato cucumber salad dressed with lemon and extra virgin oil.
• Creamy yogurt cucumber salad adds both creaminess and crunch
• Turnip pickles. These are a Middle Eastern staple for any plate, wrap, or bowl! They pack a ton of healthy flavor.
• Cooked grains. Try cooked coarse bulgur, rice, brown rice, or couscous.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the falafel by making homemade falafel or purchasing prepared falafel. The fresher the better! Falafel bowls taste best with falafel that has just been fried and is still warm!
2. Assemble the falafel bowls: Start with a base of hummus, any salads, cooked grains.
3. Layer in fresh vegetables and garnishes, then top with your crispy falafel. 
4. Garnish with fresh herbs and drizzle with tahini or yogurt sauce. Serve immediately.

Additional Ingredients & Variations

Feel free to enhance your falafel bowl with additional toppings and ingredients, such as:

• Avocado slices for creaminess
• Pickled red onions for a tangy kick
• Pomegranate seeds for sweet bursts of flavor and texture
• Feta cheese for added richness (not vegan)
• Mixed greens for extra crunch, such as a Lebanese Salad.
• Consider making a falafel bowl bar, with all of the items on a buffet so eaters an build their own bowls. Very fun!
• Take several of the ingredients in your falafel bowls and turn them into Falafel Wraps!
• Use Falafel Waffles as the falafels in your bowls.

FAQs

What are the best toppings for a falafel bowl?

The best toppings for a falafel bowl can vary based on personal preference, but popular choices include sliced cucumbers, diced tomatoes, shredded carrots, avocado, pickled red onions, turnip pickles, olives, hummus, Greek yogurt or labneh, tahini sauce, and fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or parsley.

How do I store leftover falafel bowls?

To store leftover falafel bowls, keep the components separate if possible. Store cooked falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Grains and vegetables can be stored separately to maintain their textures. When ready to eat, reheat the falafel in the oven for a crispy finish, and then assemble your bowl.

Can I bake the falafel instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake falafel instead of frying for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the falafel balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush each generously with olive oil and bake for about 25 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.