This Quick Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional falafel by using an air fryer instead of a deep fryer. These falafel are gluten-free, vegan, and packed with protein, making them a perfect addition to your meal prep.
With a tender center and crispy outer shell, this falafel mix is not only delicious but also fits well into various dietary preferences, including plant-based and whole food recipes. Enjoy these Mediterranean-inspired bites as a snack or part of a main dish.
Overview of Air Fryer Falafel
The Quick Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe provides a healthier twist on traditional falafel, utilizing an air fryer for a lighter cooking method. This dish is not only gluten-free and vegan but also packed with protein, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or casual dining.
With a delightful combination of crispy exteriors and tender interiors, this falafel mix is a hit among various dietary preferences. Enjoy these Mediterranean-inspired bites as a snack or as part of a main dish, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for Flavorful Falafel
Creating the perfect falafel requires a blend of fresh ingredients that come together to form a flavorful mix. Key components include chickpeas, fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, and aromatic spices such as cumin and coriander.
These ingredients not only contribute to the taste but also ensure that the falafel remains nutritious. The addition of gluten-free flour helps bind the mixture, allowing for easy shaping into balls or patties before air frying.
Preparation Steps Made Simple
Preparing this air fryer falafel is straightforward and quick, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish. Begin by combining the chickpeas, herbs, onion, and spices in a food processor, creating a coarse mixture that will form the base of your falafel.
Once the mixture is ready, shape it into small balls, approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. This size ensures they cook evenly and develop a crispy outer layer while remaining soft inside.
Cooking Techniques for Optimal Results
Preheating the air fryer is a crucial step to achieving that perfect golden-brown color. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to warm up for about five minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil before placing the falafel balls inside. Ensure they are arranged in a single layer without touching each other, and give the tops a quick spray of olive oil for added crispiness.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Once cooked, these falafel balls can be served warm alongside a variety of dips and salads. A creamy tahini sauce complements the falafel beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
For a complete meal, consider pairing the falafel with a colorful Mediterranean salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives. This combination not only looks appealing but also adds a refreshing contrast to the crispy falafel.
Nutritional Benefits
This air fryer falafel recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering about 150 calories per serving. With a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, it fits well into various dietary plans, including plant-based and whole food recipes.
By opting for air fryer recipes, you can enjoy the crispy texture of fried foods without the excess oil, making this falafel a guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying flavorful Mediterranean dishes.
Healthy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe
This air fryer falafel recipe is simple and quick, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish. It yields about 12 falafel balls, making it ideal for meal prep or serving at gatherings. These falafel are perfect for pairing with salads, wraps, or dips.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup gluten-free flour or chickpea flour
- Olive oil spray for cooking
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, pepper, and flour. Pulse until a coarse mixture forms, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Form the Falafel: Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Falafel: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the falafel balls in the basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Spray the tops with olive oil.
- Air Fry: Cook the falafel for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the falafel from the air fryer and serve warm with your favorite dips, salads, or wraps.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 24g