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This vibrant Mediterranean falafel salad combines crispy homemade falafel with fresh vegetables and a creamy tahini dressing for a nutritious, satisfying meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner. The contrast of warm, savory falafel against cool, crunchy vegetables creates a delightful texture experience in every bite.
I first made this salad when trying to recreate my favorite Mediterranean restaurant dish at home. Now it's become our family's go-to healthy dinner when we want something that feels both nourishing and indulgent at the same time.
Ingredients
- Fresh mixed greens: Provide the perfect base and can be customized based on what you have available
- Persian cucumbers: Add refreshing crunch and hydration to balance the warm falafel
- Cherry tomatoes: Bring sweet acidity that brightens the entire dish
- Kalamata olives: Contribute briny richness and healthy fats
- Red onion: Offers sharp flavor contrast that cuts through the creamy elements
- Homemade falafel: Brings protein and the signature savory element to make this a complete meal
- Tahini: Creates the base for a creamy dressing without any dairy
- Fresh herbs: Like parsley and dill elevate the entire dish with brightness
- Maple syrup: Balances the dressing with just a touch of sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Tahini Dressing:
- Combine tahini paste with freshly minced garlic clove in a small bowl until smooth. Add freshly squeezed lemon juice and whisk continuously until the mixture begins to thicken. This may look separated at first but keep whisking. Add chopped fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper to taste. Thin with water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. If using sweetener add gradually until balanced.
- Build Your Salad Base:
- Start with a large mixing bowl and add your chopped mixed greens. Pour a small amount of the tahini dressing over the greens and toss gently with tongs until every leaf is lightly coated. This ensures flavor in every bite rather than having all the dressing sit on top. Transfer the dressed greens to your serving bowl or plate creating a substantial bed for your toppings.
- Layer Fresh Vegetables:
- Arrange your halved cherry tomatoes cucumber pieces and diced red onion over the dressed greens. Distribute them evenly across the salad rather than piling in one area to ensure variety in each forkful. The vibrant colors create a visually appealing presentation that makes the salad even more appetizing.
- Add Falafel and Finishing Touches:
- Place warm crispy falafel on top of your vegetable layer. Scatter kalamata olives throughout the salad for surprising bursts of brine. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over everything for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Drizzle additional tahini dressing over the entire creation focusing on the falafel which absorbs the sauce beautifully.
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This salad reminds me of my travels through the Middle East where I first fell in love with authentic falafel. The combination of warm spices and fresh vegetables creates such a harmonious balance that even my vegetable-skeptical children clean their plates when I serve this for dinner.
Making Perfect Falafel
The secret to incredible falafel lies in using dried chickpeas that have been soaked overnight rather than canned. This creates the perfect texture that's crispy outside and fluffy inside. Avoid overprocessing the mixture which can make your falafel dense and heavy. When frying maintain oil temperature around 350°F for golden exteriors without burning. For a healthier option bake falafel at 375°F for 25-30 minutes flipping halfway through cooking time.
Tahini Dressing Variations
This versatile dressing becomes a kitchen staple once you master the basic recipe. For a spicy version add a dash of cayenne pepper or harissa paste. Create a green tahini dressing by blending in a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro parsley and mint. For a thicker dip-like consistency use less water and serve alongside warm pita bread. If avoiding sweeteners a squeeze of orange juice can add natural sweetness without added sugars.
Serving Suggestions
Transform this salad into a complete Mediterranean feast by serving with warm pita bread and additional sides like tabbouleh or roasted eggplant. For a deconstructed presentation arrange components in sections on a large platter allowing guests to build their own perfect bite. Convert to pita pockets by stuffing all ingredients into warm halved pita bread for a portable lunch option. Add a sprinkle of tangy feta cheese for a non-vegan variation that adds another dimension of flavor.
Storage Tips
Prepare components in advance and refrigerate separately for up to three days. Store dressing in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week it will thicken when cold so bring to room temperature and add a splash of water before using. Cooked falafel maintains its texture best when reheated in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes rather than microwave. For meal prep divide dressed greens into containers and store toppings and falafel separately adding just before eating.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use store-bought falafel for this salad?
Yes, store-bought falafel works well if you’re short on time, though homemade often has a fresher taste and customizable ingredients.
- → What can I substitute for tahini in the dressing?
You can use sunflower seed butter, almond butter, or yogurt as an alternative to tahini, though the flavor profile will vary.
- → How can I make this salad vegan-friendly?
The salad is already vegan-friendly; just ensure your falafel and any optional sweetener, such as maple syrup, are vegan-certified.
- → Can I prepare this salad in advance?
You can chop the ingredients and make the tahini dressing ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.
- → What greens work best for the salad base?
A mix of iceberg, romaine, and escarole works beautifully, but you can use any fresh, crisp mixed greens of your choice.