Mediterranean Delight: Vegan Falafel Pita with Tahini Dressing and Cucumber Salad (Gluten-Free)

Mediterranean Delight: Vegan Falafel Pita with Tahini Dressing and Cucumber Salad (Gluten-Free)

Discover the ultimate Mediterranean delight with our vegan falafel pita recipe, perfect for vegetarians seeking a delectable and protein-rich meal. Combining crunchy falafels with tahini dressing and a refreshing cucumber salad, this gluten-free dish is sure to tantalize your senses and satisfy your culinary cravings. Savor each mouthful of this vegan Mediterranean feast and enjoy the perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave you yearning for more.

Time: Prep Time: 20 minutes - Cook Time: 15 minutes - Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Difficulty: Advanced
Cuisine: Israeli

Allergens

None (Vegan, Gluten-Free)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 4 gluten
  • free pita breads
  • 1 cup tahini dressing
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup mixed greens

Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas, then place them in a food processor along with olive oil, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, salt, black pepper, baking powder, and lemon juice. Process until a smooth dough forms.
  2. Shape the falafel dough into 8 equal sized balls and set aside.
  3. Heat a pan over medium heat and add 1/2 inch of oil. Fry the falafel balls for 4 minutes per side or until golden brown, then remove and drain on paper towels.
  4. Warm the pita breads in an oven or microwave.
  5. Assemble each pita with a falafel ball, tahini dressing, cucumber salad, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and mixed greens.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Chef’s Insight

The key to perfect falafel is a smooth dough that holds its shape while frying. Experiment with different seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations.

Notes

This recipe is ideal for vegans and vegetarians seeking a delicious, protein-rich meal.

Cultural or Historical Background

Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish, typically made from ground chickpeas or fava beans. The origin of falafel is believed to date back to ancient Egypt, where dried beans were ground into flour and then formed into balls. Over time, falafel has become a staple in many Mediterranean cuisines, with each region adding its own unique spin on the recipe.