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Falafel Salad with Tahini

🥙
High Protein High Carb Dairy-Free

⏱ 45 minutes

🍽 Serves 4

Perfect for Your Genetic Profile

These baked falafel are rich in plant-based protein and complex carbohydrates from chickpeas. The tahini dressing provides healthy fats and calcium while being completely dairy-free, perfect for those with lactose sensitivity.

Falafel Ingredients

  • 2 cups dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
  • 1 small onion, roughly chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Salad & Tahini Dressing

  • 6 cups mixed greens
  • 2 cucumbers, diced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2-3 tablespoons water
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Drain and rinse soaked chickpeas. Do not cook them.
  3. In a food processor, pulse chickpeas until roughly chopped.
  4. Add onion, garlic, herbs, and spices. Pulse until well combined but not pureed.
  5. Transfer to a bowl, add olive oil and sesame seeds. Mix well.
  6. Form mixture into 20 small balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and firm.
  8. Meanwhile, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and water for dressing.
  9. Arrange mixed greens, cucumber, tomatoes, and onion in serving bowls.
  10. Top with warm falafel and drizzle with tahini dressing.

Nutritional Benefits

Plant Protein: 18g

Complete amino acid profile

Fiber: 12g

Supports digestive health

Healthy Fats: 14g

From tahini and olive oil

Iron: 4mg

Essential for energy production

Chef's Tips

  • Don't skip soaking chickpeas overnight - this is crucial for texture
  • Baking is healthier than frying and still achieves crispy exterior
  • Make extra falafel for meal prep throughout the week
  • Adjust tahini dressing consistency with water as needed