Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter

this Recipe

There’s something truly special about gathering around a plate full of color, flavor, and tradition. That’s exactly what you’ll find with this Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter—a dish that’s vibrant, hearty, and entirely plant-based. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this platter is a showstopper that makes everyone feel at home.

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What Is a Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter?

At its core, a Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter is a celebration of textures and tastes—crispy falafel, creamy hummus, fluffy pita, crunchy veggies, and tangy pickles all come together to form a perfectly balanced plate. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the warmth of Middle Eastern hospitality right to your table.

I love how customizable it is. You can build it just how you like it: spicy, garlicky, herb-loaded—you name it!

Reasons to Love This Recipe

• 🌿 Totally Vegan & Plant-Powered: Zero animal products, yet full of protein and flavor.
• 💥 Bold and Fresh Flavors: Garlic, cumin, lemon, and herbs deliver a flavor punch in every bite.
• 🧆 Meal-Prep Friendly: Make the components in advance for an easy weekday lunch or dinner.
• 👌 Customizable: Add more pickles, toss in some olives, or pile on roasted eggplant.

What Does It Taste Like?

The falafel is crispy on the outside, tender and herbaceous on the inside, with notes of cumin, coriander, and garlic. Paired with the coolness of tahini sauce, the silkiness of hummus, and the crunch of fresh veggies—it’s anything but boring!!

Benefits of This Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter

• High in plant protein from chickpeas and tahini.
• Rich in fiber, helping digestion and keeping you full.
• Packed with antioxidants from fresh herbs and veggies.
• Naturally gluten-free if served with GF wraps or no bread at all.

Ingredients

For the falafel:

• 1½ cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 3 garlic cloves
• ½ cup fresh parsley (packed)
• ½ cup fresh cilantro (packed)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne (optional)
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour or chickpea flour

For serving:

• Hummus
• Tahini sauce (tahini, lemon juice, water, garlic, salt)
• Pita or flatbread (use GF options if needed)
• Cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, red onion
• Pickled turnips or pickles
• Kalamata olives
• Fresh parsley or mint

Tools You’ll Need

• Food processor
• Frying pan or oven/air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Slotted spoon or spatula
• Paper towels (for draining if frying)
• Baking sheet (if baking)

Optional Additions & Substitutions

• Add Roasted Eggplant or Zucchini: For a richer, smokier flavor.
• Use White Beans Instead of Chickpeas: If you want a milder taste.
• Add Chili Flakes or Harissa: For a spicy twist.
• Sub Greek Yogurt Tahini Sauce: If not vegan.
• Gluten-Free Falafel: Use chickpea flour instead of all-purpose.

How to Make the Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter

Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas

Place your dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with several inches of cold water. Let them soak overnight (at least 12 hours). They’ll double in size!

Step 2: Prepare the Falafel Mixture

Drain chickpeas well and pat them dry. Add chickpeas, onion, garlic, herbs, spices, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to a food processor. Pulse until a coarse meal forms—scrape down sides occasionally. It should hold together when pressed.

Add baking soda and flour. Mix to combine, then chill the mixture for 30-60 minutes (this helps them hold shape).

Step 3: Form and Cook

Roll the mixture into small balls or patties. Fry in hot oil (about 350°F/175°C) until golden brown and crisp, 2-3 minutes per side. OR bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway. OR air-fry at 375°F for 15-18 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Platter

Spread hummus on a large plate or board. Arrange warm falafel, chopped vegetables, olives, and pickles around it. Drizzle with tahini sauce and garnish with herbs. Add warm pita to the side.

What to Serve With This Falafel Platter

• Tabbouleh or Fattoush (fresh herb salads)
• Lentil Soup with lemon and cumin
• Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki – not vegan, but great for mixed-group platters!
• Roasted Potatoes with Za’atar for an extra hit of savory spice

Tips for the Best Falafel Ever

• Don’t use canned chickpeas—they’re too soft!
• Chill the mixture to help it firm up.
• Use wet hands to shape falafel to avoid sticking.
• Make a tester falafel to check flavor and texture before cooking the rest.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying—cook in batches.

Storage Instructions

• Falafel (cooked): Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
• Falafel (uncooked): Store the mixture in the fridge for 2 days or freeze pre-shaped falafel for up to 3 months.
• Tahini sauce & hummus: Last up to a week refrigerated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the falafel without frying?

Yes! Bake them at 400°F (200°C) or use an air fryer. They won’t be as crispy, but still delicious.

What’s the best way to freeze falafel?

Freeze shaped, uncooked falafel on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Fry or bake directly from frozen—just add a few minutes to the cook time.

Can I use canned chickpeas in a pinch?

Technically yes, but they’re too soft and tend to fall apart. For true texture, use dried.

Is this platter gluten-free?

It can be! Just use gluten-free pita or serve with lettuce wraps.

Final Thoughts

This Middle Eastern Vegan Falafel Platter is everything I love in a meal—hearty, healthy, colorful, and full of flavor. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a gift when you serve it. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a lively dinner party, it’s always a hit.

I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! Whether you bake, fry, or air-fry your falafel, this platter will win hearts. You’ll find yourself making it again and again.

Craving More Cozy Delights?

• Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki
• Raspberry-Filled Almond Snowball Cookies
• Sausage French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe

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Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 12g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 380mg

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