Spinach Falafels- Ground chickpeas, fresh spinach, and oat flour combined with a mouthwatering combination of herbs and spices rolled into balls that are then baked, not fried to crispy perfection. These tasty bite-sized falafels are an ideal appetizer for get-togethers or a quick snack on the go.
Have you ever had a falafel? If not, you're really missing out! Falafels are a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas that can be served either as a snack or as part of a larger meal. While there are many variations of falafel, it typically includes some combination of herbs, spices, and vegetables.
These vegan spinach falafels are a fun twist on the traditional dish and make for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. The falafels are made with fresh spinach, chickpeas, and an assortment of herbs and spices that will leave your taste buds tingling. So if you're looking for a new dinner recipe to try this week, be sure to give these spinach falafels a try!
Why You'll Love This Spinach Falafel Recipe
Meal Prep Friendly- Falafels are excellent for meal prep. Simply make a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy them for quick and easy snacks, lunches, or dinners throughout the week.
Nutritious- These falafels are prepared with healthier ingredients like olive oil and fresh herbs, and they're also high in nutrients thanks to the fresh spinach and chickpeas.
Quick And Easy- Spinach Falafels come together in just 30 minutes, making them the perfect recipe for a busy weeknight.
Versatile- Serve these falafels as an appetizer with dipping sauce or enjoy them as a snack or main course. They make a great addition to any meal.
Delicious- Fresh spinach, herbs, and spices give these falafels a ton of mouthwatering flavor. They'll go over well with the entire family!
Equipment Needed To Make These Spinach Falafels
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Food Processor or Food Blender
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients For Vegan Spinach Falafels
- Chickpeas
- Cayenne Pepper
- Black Pepper
- Cumin Powder
- Salt
- Coriander Powder
- Dried Parsley
- Garlic
- Lemon Juice
- Oat Flour
- Lemon Tahini Sauce
How To Make Vegan Falafels With Spinach
To make falafels, preheat your oven to 375F and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. In a food processor or blender, add all ingredients except the tahini. Process the ingredients until almost smooth without turning the mixture into a paste.
Once the falafel mixture has been blended, you can begin to shape the mixture into falafel balls. Arrange the falafel balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake. Flip the falafels halfway through to cook both sides evenly. Enjoy! Serve warm, drizzled with lemon tahini sauce.
What to Serve/Pair With Your Falafels
I recommend pairing these falafels with a simple salad or some roasted veggies to serve. You could also enjoy them wrapped up in a pita or tortilla with your favorite toppings.
Lemon tahini sauce is my personal favorite way to enjoy these spinach falafels, but you could also try them with a simple yogurt sauce, hot sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Whatever way you want to eat them, spinach falafels are certain to be a hit! So go ahead and try them today and see for yourself.
Popular Substitutions & Additions for vegan spinach falafels
A few popular substitutions and additions can be made to this recipe to suit your preferences. Some common substitutions include:
- Using freshly cooked chickpeas instead of canned chickpeas
- Adding finely chopped red onion or shallot
- Substituting the oat flour for almond flour or other gluten-free flour
- Adding in additional fresh herbs like cilantro or basil
- Using pre-made tahini sauce instead of making your own
- Adding in different spices such as smoked paprika, turmeric, or cardamom
How To Reheat & Store Vegan Falafels
What Is The Best Way To Store Spinach Falafels?
Vegan falafels with spinach are best stored in a resealable bag or airtight container in the refrigerator.
How Long Will Vegan Spinach Falafels Last In the Fridge?
These falafels can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days if stored correctly in an airtight container or resealable bag.
Can I Freeze Vegan Falafels?
Yes! You can freeze these falafels for up to 3 months. Just be sure to place them in an airtight freezer-safe bag or container before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat as desired when you're ready to enjoy.
How To Reheat Spinach Falafels?
When you're ready to enjoy stored vegan falafels, simply reheat in a preheated oven or under the broiler for a few minutes until warmed through.
Spinach Falafel FAQs
Do I have to use spinach in this recipe?
No, you can substitute the spinach for other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard.
How Do I Make Crispier Falafels?
For crispy falafels, be sure to use cooked chickpeas that have been well-drained. You can also add a bit of baking powder to the mixture to help them rise and become crispy.
Do I have to use tahini in this recipe?
No. While tahini does add a delicious creamy flavor, it is not required. If you don't have any on hand or prefer not to use tahini, simply omit it from the recipe.
Can I make these falafels without using a food processor?
Of course! If you don't have a food processor or blender, you can mash the chickpeas by hand using a bowl and fork. Just be sure to chop the garlic and herbs very finely before adding them to the mixture.
What other herbs can I use in this recipe?
As written, this recipe is delicious, but you can also add additional fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. If you do not have fresh herbs on hand, you can substitute them with dried herbs.
Do I have to bake these falafels?
No. While baking is the recommended method for making these spinach falafels, you can also fry them if you prefer. Simply heat a few inches of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and then fry the falafels until golden brown on all sides.
Don't Forget To Come Back And Let Me Know How Your Vegan Falafels With Spinach Turned Out!
📋 Recipe
Baked Spinach Falafel
Ingredients
- 2 cups chickpeas, canned drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1-2 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ¼ cup oat flour
- Lemon tahini sauce to serve with
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Add chickpeas, cayenne pepper, black pepper, cumin, salt, coriander, parsley, lemon juice, spinach, and oat flour in a food blender or a food processor.
- Process the ingredients until almost smooth, but not a paste. Let it have some coarse texture.
- Shape the mixture into falafel balls and arrange on a baking sheet. You can brush them with oil or bake as they are.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve warm, drizzled with lemon tahini sauce.
Marilena
Yummy and healthy
Sara
What would you recommend as a substitute for oat flour?
Sue
With half the amount of cayenne, these are wonderful! Thanks for this easy, delicious and nutritious recipe.
Jennifer
Is it possible to freeze these falafels BEFORE baking them? I would love to make a few batches to keep in the freezer, and bake fresh when needed. I realize I would need to thaw them first, but wondering if this would work. Thanks in advance.
They are amazeballs! Pardon the pun!