Wholesome Eats: Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Falafel Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Falafel:

• 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight (or 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed)
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp baking powder (make sure it's gluten-free)
• 1-2 tbsp chickpea flour (or gluten-free flour of your choice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying (olive oil or vegetable oil)

For the Salad:

• Mixed greens (spinach, arugula, lettuce, etc.)
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Cucumber, diced
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Bell pepper, diced
• Carrots, grated
• Kalamata olives (optional)

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2-3 tbsp water (to thin out the dressing)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Making the Falafel:

1. Prepare Chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in plenty of water. If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them well.
2. Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, chickpea flour, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly coarse. Do not over-process; it should not be a smooth paste.
3. Shape Falafel: Form the mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of a walnut.
4. Fry Falafel: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the falafel in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Alternatively, you can bake the falafel at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Preparing the Salad:

1. Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, carrots, and olives.
2. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
3. Combine and Serve: Place a few falafel on top of the salad. Drizzle with the tahini dressing. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your fresh, gluten-free, and dairy-free falafel salad!