The Spinach Falafel & Hummus Bowl Recipe is an absolute game-changer for anyone craving a vibrant, wholesome meal that’s packed with flavor and texture. With fresh spinach blended into traditional chickpea falafel, this bowl elevates a classic Middle Eastern favorite to new heights of health and deliciousness. Each bite combines crispy, herbaceous falafel, creamy hummus, and a rainbow of fresh vegetables nestled atop fluffy quinoa or couscous, making it the perfect dish to satisfy your appetite and brighten your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each one bringing something special—whether it’s vibrant color, zest, or that perfectly crunchy texture—to your bowl. Gather these essentials to make sure your Spinach Falafel & Hummus Bowl Recipe shines every time.
- Chickpeas (1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed): The falafel’s hearty base, rich in protein and fiber for a satisfying bite.
- Fresh spinach (1 cup, packed): Adds a delightful green twist and boosts vitamins without overpowering the flavor.
- Chopped onion (1/4 cup): Brings subtle sweetness and depth to the falafel mixture.
- Garlic (2 cloves): Delivers that signature savory punch everyone loves in falafel.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): Gives the falafel a fresh, herbaceous lift that’s impossible to resist.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the entire dish with a zesty tang that wakes up your taste buds.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds warm, earthy notes essential to traditional Middle Eastern flavor profiles.
- Ground coriander (1/2 teaspoon): Complements cumin perfectly with a hint of citrusy, aromatic flavor.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances every ingredient’s natural taste for a balanced bowl.
- Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): Helps the falafel puff up nicely while baking, making it delightfully light.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Binds the falafel mixture, ensuring it stays together when cooked.
- Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil: For frying or baking, adding a golden crisp finish.
- Cooked quinoa or couscous (1 cup): The wholesome, fluffy base that anchors this bowl.
- Hummus (1/2 cup): Creamy, smooth, and rich—the perfect falafel companion.
- Cucumber (1/2 cup, diced): Adds a refreshing crunch and cooling contrast.
- Cherry tomatoes (1/2 cup, halved): Burst of juicy sweetness that brightens the bowl.
- Shredded carrots (1/4 cup): Offers subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
- Arugula or mixed greens (a handful): Peppery notes and a lively green base for freshness.
- Lemon wedges: A final squeeze packs an extra punch of brightness.
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional): Provides a lovely visual touch and aromatic lift.
How to Make Spinach Falafel & Hummus Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Falafel Mixture
Start by combining chickpeas, fresh spinach, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, ground cumin, coriander, salt, baking powder, and flour in a food processor. Pulse the ingredients just enough until the mixture holds together but still has some texture—over-processing will result in a dense falafel, and we want light, fluffy bites every time.
Step 2: Shape the Falafel
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the falafel mixture and gently form them into small patties or balls. The size is perfect for quick cooking and makes assembling the bowl easy and fun.
Step 3: Cook the Falafel
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or heat a nonstick skillet with a splash of olive oil over medium heat. If baking, place the falafel on a parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly spray them with olive oil for a crispy crust; bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through. If pan-frying, cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown and irresistibly crisp.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
Begin your bowl by laying down a bed of cooked quinoa or couscous. Artfully arrange the warm falafel atop, add a generous dollop of creamy hummus, and scatter diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, and fresh arugula or mixed greens. Finish with a squeeze of lemon and, if you like, a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that extra touch of freshness and flavor.
How to Serve Spinach Falafel & Hummus Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes aren’t just for looks—they add that extra layer of flavor and personality. Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint create an aromatic pop that brightens each bite. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a dash of smoked paprika can also elevate your bowl beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this bowl with light, complementary sides such as warm pita bread, a crisp cucumber salad, or even a cool tzatziki dip. These simple additions round out the meal perfectly without competing with the bold flavors of the falafel and hummus bowl.
Creative Ways to Present
For an Instagram-worthy presentation, serve your Spinach Falafel & Hummus Bowl Recipe in a wide, shallow bowl with each colorful ingredient arranged in neat sections. Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil or a lemon-tahini dressing in a swirl on top. If hosting, try serving mini falafel sliders or falafel-stuffed pita pockets inspired by this bowl’s ingredients.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover falafel or bowl components, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The falafel will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy nutritious lunches throughout the week.
Freezing
Falafel freezes beautifully! Place uncooked or cooked falafel balls on a baking sheet first to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready, bake or pan-fry straight from frozen—no need to thaw.
Reheating
For best texture, reheat falafel in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the falafel soggy. Warm hummus at room temperature or with a gentle microwave zap to preserve its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I make the falafel gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like chickpea flour or rice flour, and you’ll maintain that perfect falafel texture without gluten.
Is fresh spinach essential, or can I use frozen?
Fresh spinach is best because it keeps the falafel light and fresh-tasting, but if you only have frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the mixture.
Can I bake instead of pan-frying the falafel?
Yes, baking is a fantastic option and slightly healthier. Just be sure to spray the falafel lightly with oil and flip halfway to ensure even crispiness on both sides.
What’s the best way to store the assembled bowl?
It’s best to store the components separately—keep falafel, hummus, and vegetables chilled in airtight containers to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess.
Can I substitute the quinoa or couscous base?
Certainly! Feel free to use brown rice, bulgur, or even a grain-free option like cauliflower rice based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that feels both fresh and comforting, the Spinach Falafel & Hummus Bowl Recipe is calling your name. This dish brings together wholesome ingredients that nourish your body and delight your taste buds, all while being easy enough to whip up any day of the week. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite bowl to brighten up your meals!
Print
Spinach Falafel & Hummus Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A nutritious and flavorful Spinach Falafel & Hummus Bowl featuring homemade spinach-infused falafel, fresh vegetables, and creamy hummus served over quinoa or couscous. This plant-based, Middle Eastern-inspired meal is perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner, offering a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Falafel Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup fresh spinach, packed
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil for baking or pan-frying
Bowl Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or couscous
- 1/2 cup hummus
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- A handful of arugula or mixed greens
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Falafel Mixture: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, fresh spinach, chopped onion, garlic cloves, fresh parsley, lemon juice, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, baking powder, and all-purpose flour. Pulse the mixture until it becomes well combined but remains slightly chunky; avoid over-processing to ensure the falafel has a good texture.
- Shape the Falafel: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and form them into small patties or balls using your hands. Arrange the formed falafel on a parchment-lined baking sheet if baking.
- Cook the Falafel: For baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), lightly spray the falafel with olive oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Alternatively, pan-fry the falafel in a nonstick skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil, cooking for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
- Assemble the Bowl: Place a base of cooked quinoa or couscous in serving bowls. Add the cooked falafel, a dollop of hummus, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded carrots, and a handful of arugula or mixed greens on top. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- The falafel mixture can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for convenience.
- Experiment with different hummus flavors such as beet hummus or roasted red pepper hummus for a twist.
- Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
