These Easy Falafel Salad Bowls bring a fresh Mediterranean twist to any meal, combining crisp mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy feta, and hearty falafels.
Packed with plant-based protein from chickpeas, fiber from vegetables, and heart-healthy fats from olive oil and hummus, this dish is as nutritious as it is satisfying.
The lemon vinaigrette adds a bright, zesty flavor that elevates the entire bowl, balancing richness with freshness.
Quick to assemble in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, light lunches, or meal-prep bowls for the week.
The versatility is remarkable: omit feta to keep it vegan, swap hummus for tzatziki for a twist, or use homemade falafels for an extra burst of flavor.
This recipe proves that healthy, flavorful Mediterranean cuisine can be fast, easy, and crowd-pleasing for family and friends.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Large Salad Bowl
Ideal for tossing and mixing greens with the vinaigrette evenly. Its spacious design is perfect for salads, grain bowls, and mixing ingredients without spilling.
Cutting Board
A durable, flat surface for chopping vegetables and herbs safely and efficiently. Essential for any kitchen prep work.
Chef’s Knife
Ensures clean, precise cuts for vegetables, onions, and cherry tomatoes, saving time and ensuring even cooking and presentation.
Small Mixing Bowl
Perfect for whisking together the lemon vinaigrette ingredients for smooth, balanced flavor. Also versatile for sauces, dressings, or marinades.
Serving Bowls
Individual bowls provide an appealing presentation for meal prep, making serving quick and visually attractive while keeping portions controlled.
Flavorful Falafel Salad Bowl
Equipment
- 1 Large Salad Bowl
- 1 cutting board
- 1 Chef’s Knife
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl
- 4 Serving Bowls
Ingredients
Falafel Bowls:
- 6 cups fresh mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup red onions sliced
- 8 –12 falafels cooked (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup feta cheese cubed
- 1/2 cup black olives
- 1 cup hummus any variety, such as mustard hummus
Lemon Vinaigrette:
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil 80 ml
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 30 ml
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 30 ml
- 1 teaspoon honey 5 ml
- Kosher salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Pinch crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Vinaigrette: In a small mixing bowl, combine extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk thoroughly until the ingredients are emulsified into a smooth, tangy dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while preparing the salad components.
- Assemble the Base Salad: On a large cutting board, slice the cherry tomatoes in half and thinly slice the red onions. In a large salad bowl, combine the fresh mixed greens with the prepared tomatoes and onions, ensuring even distribution for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Dress the Greens: Drizzle the reserved lemon vinaigrette over the mixed salad. Toss gently but thoroughly using salad tongs or clean hands to coat all greens and vegetables evenly with the zesty dressing, taking care not to bruise the delicate leaves.
- Portion into Bowls: Divide the dressed salad evenly among four serving bowls, creating a fresh, colorful base for the falafels. Ensure each bowl receives an even mixture of greens, tomatoes, and onions for consistent presentation and taste.
- Add the Falafels: Place 2–3 cooked falafels on top of the greens in each bowl, arranging them so they remain intact and visually appealing. If using frozen falafels, cook directly from frozen according to package instructions or your homemade recipe.
- Top with Extras: Sprinkle cubed feta cheese and black olives over the salad bowls. Add a generous dollop of hummus to each bowl, positioning it neatly for presentation and creating a creamy, flavorful complement to the crisp greens and warm falafels.
- Serve Immediately: Present the bowls fresh, optionally accompanied by warm pita bread or chips. Encourage diners to scoop a bit of hummus, feta, and falafel together for each bite. Best enjoyed immediately, as the salad is freshest when the greens remain crisp and vibrant.
Notes
- Falafel Choice: Homemade falafels provide the best texture and flavor, but store-bought ones are a convenient alternative. Frozen falafels can be cooked directly from frozen.
- Vegan Option: Omit feta cheese to keep the dish fully vegan without sacrificing flavor.
- Hummus Variations: Swap the mustard hummus with classic, roasted red pepper, or garlic hummus for a different flavor profile.
- Serve Fresh: Best enjoyed immediately after assembly to keep greens crisp and falafels warm.
- Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and whisk the vinaigrette in advance for quicker assembly at mealtime.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Bowls
The key to a flavorful falafel salad bowl lies in balancing textures and temperatures.
Crisp, fresh greens create a refreshing base, while warm, spiced falafels add heartiness.
Drizzling the vinaigrette just before serving ensures the leaves stay crisp rather than soggy.
Using a dollop of hummus not only adds creaminess but also complements the spices in the falafel, creating depth in every bite.
For maximum flavor, cook falafels just before assembling, or heat them briefly in the oven to retain a crispy exterior.
These subtle techniques elevate a simple salad into a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal at home.
Serving Suggestions For Maximum Enjoyment
Serve the falafel salad bowls alongside warm pita bread, crispy flatbread chips, or a side of roasted vegetables.
Garnish with extra herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
For a heartier meal, add roasted chickpeas, avocado slices, or quinoa to boost protein and fiber.
The bowls are perfect for casual lunches, dinner parties, or meal prep, as each element can be prepared ahead and assembled quickly.
Pair with a light, crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing Mediterranean-inspired experience.
Storage Tips For Freshness
These salad bowls are best consumed immediately, as falafels and greens lose their optimal texture over time.
If storing leftovers, keep all components separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheat falafels in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness before adding to fresh greens.
Store hummus and vinaigrette separately and only add just before serving to maintain flavor and texture.
Preparing chopped vegetables in advance makes assembly quicker, ensuring freshness and maintaining vibrant colors when serving.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered
1. Can I use store-bought falafels?
Yes, store-bought falafels save time and work well. Choose high-quality options or heat them in the oven to restore crispiness.
2. How can I make this vegan?
Simply omit feta cheese, and ensure your hummus contains no dairy or additives. The salad remains flavorful and satisfying.
3. Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Chop vegetables and whisk the vinaigrette ahead, but assemble bowls just before serving to maintain crisp greens and warm falafels.
4. What are good hummus alternatives?
Tzatziki, roasted red pepper hummus, or baba ganoush are excellent alternatives that complement the falafels and vegetables.
5. Can I add extra protein?
Yes, roasted chickpeas, cooked quinoa, or marinated
tofu can be added for a more protein-rich meal without altering flavors significantly.
This recipe has been adapted and simplified from the original version by mommyshomecooking. We’ve refined the steps for a smoother cooking experience and added helpful notes, nutrition insights, and essential kitchen tools to make it even easier for home cooks.
