Baked Falafel Tzatziki Twist

Featured in: Savory Vibes

Enjoy a healthier take on a Middle Eastern favorite with these crispy baked falafel balls made from chickpeas, garlic, and spices. Baking instead of frying reduces oil without sacrificing flavor, while fresh parsley and cumin deliver authentic aromas. A side of cool, creamy tzatziki or plain yogurt balances the warmth and spice of the falafel perfectly. Serve them as a main or appetizer, tuck into pita, or enjoy with salad. Quick to prepare and ideal for vegetarian diets, this satisfying dish offers crisp texture, vibrant color, and classic taste in every bite.

Updated on Fri, 31 Oct 2025 08:14:00 GMT
Golden-brown baked falafel served with refreshing tzatziki sauce on the side.  Save
Golden-brown baked falafel served with refreshing tzatziki sauce on the side. | lickjoke.com

A healthier baked twist on a Mediterranean classic — crispy falafel served with cool yogurt sauce.

I first tried baking falafel after searching for easier ways to enjoy this Middle Eastern favorite in my own kitchen. The results were crispy on the outside and soft inside — just as delicious as traditional, but with less oil.

Ingredients

  • Falafel: 1 can chickpeas, drained, 2 cloves garlic, ¼ cup fresh parsley, 1 tsp cumin, 2 tbsp flour (or chickpea flour), Salt to taste
  • Sauce: ½ cup plain yogurt or tzatziki

Instructions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Blend Falafel Ingredients:
Blend chickpeas, garlic, parsley, cumin, and salt in a food processor until coarse.
Add Flour & Shape:
Mix in flour and form into small balls or patties.
Bake:
Place on a greased baking sheet and bake 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Serve:
Serve with tzatziki on the side or in a pita.
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| lickjoke.com

Serving baked falafel always reminds me of family get-togethers — everyone reaching for seconds, enjoying crunchy bites and conversation.

Required Tools

Food processor, baking sheet, spatula

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (in yogurt sauce) and wheat (in flour). Use GF flour if needed.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 270, Total Fat: 9 g, Carbohydrates: 30 g, Protein: 10 g per serving

Crispy baked falafel balls paired with creamy yogurt sauce for dipping delight.  Save
Crispy baked falafel balls paired with creamy yogurt sauce for dipping delight. | lickjoke.com

Baked falafel with yogurt sauce brings a healthy twist to a classic favorite — perfect for busy weeknights and sharing.

Recipe Guide

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure to soak and cook dried chickpeas fully before blending for best texture.

Is pan-frying an option for this dish?

Pan-frying works well for extra crispiness but adds more oil. Baking keeps it lighter.

Can I make this vegan?

Use plant-based yogurt instead of dairy to create a vegan-friendly sauce.

What flour alternatives are best for gluten-free needs?

Chickpea flour or any gluten-free blend will work to bind the falafel mixture.

How should leftovers be stored?

Store falafel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat in the oven.

Baked Falafel Tzatziki Twist

Crispy baked falafel with cool tzatziki, ready in 35 minutes for a fresh Mediterranean meal.

Prep duration
15 min
Cook duration
20 min
Complete duration
35 min
Created by Hannah Brooks


Skill level Medium

Heritage Middle Eastern

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition guidelines Meat-free

Components

Falafel

01 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
02 2 cloves garlic, peeled
03 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
04 1 teaspoon ground cumin
05 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or chickpea flour
06 Salt, to taste

Sauce

01 1/2 cup plain yogurt or tzatziki

Method

Phase 01

Preheat Oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow to fully heat.

Phase 02

Prepare Chickpea Mixture: Place chickpeas, garlic, parsley, cumin, and salt into a food processor. Pulse until mixture is coarse but well combined.

Phase 03

Incorporate Flour: Add flour to the chickpea mixture and mix until dough is formed.

Phase 04

Shape Falafel: Form mixture into evenly sized balls or small patties using your hands.

Phase 05

Arrange and Bake: Place shaped falafel on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even browning.

Phase 06

Serve: Transfer baked falafel to serving plates and accompany with tzatziki or plain yogurt. Optionally, serve in pita bread.

Tools needed

  • Food processor
  • Baking sheet
  • Spatula

Allergy details

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if unsure.
  • Contains dairy (in tzatziki or yogurt) and wheat (in all-purpose flour); substitute gluten-free flour and dairy-free yogurt if required.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

Values shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 270
  • Fats: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Proteins: 10 g