Dinner

Healthy Baked Falafel Recipe

Name: Healthy Baked Falafel Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 15 ounces chickpeas, drained and rinsed; ½ cup white onion, finely diced; 1 cup fresh parsley, lightly packed; 1 cup fresh cilantro, lightly packed; ½ teaspoon sea salt (to taste); ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon coriander; 2 teaspoons cumin; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed (or one egg); 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)

ByRafael Mansero February 9, 2026February 9, 2026

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Introduction

Enjoy a healthier take on a classic Middle Eastern favorite with this baked falafel recipe. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these falafels are packed with fresh herbs and spices for vibrant flavor without the extra oil from frying.

The image shows a white flatbread folded to hold three brown falafel patties stacked in two visible layers, topped with dollops of white yogurt sauce speckled with green herbs. Around the patties are thin slices of purple onion, small red and yellow cherry tomato halves, and small green herb leaves. A sprig of dill sits on one falafel, and lemon wedges are placed nearby on a white marbled surface. The dish is held by a woman's hand, captured closely to highlight the textures of the crisp falafel, creamy sauce, and fresh vegetable toppings, all presented in soft natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

15 ounces chickpeas, drained and rinsed
½ cup white onion, finely diced
1 cup fresh parsley, lightly packed
1 cup fresh cilantro, lightly packed
½ teaspoon sea salt (to taste)
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon coriander
2 teaspoons cumin
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 Tablespoons ground flaxseed (or one egg)
1 Tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F.
Step 2: In a food processor fitted with an “S” blade, combine chickpeas, onions, parsley, and cilantro. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky.
Step 3: Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, coriander, cumin, baking powder, and ground flaxseed to the food processor. Process until the mixture is finely combined and forms a ball.
Step 4: Generously grease a large baking sheet with olive oil or canola oil to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the falafel mixture, roll into balls, then flatten them into discs. Place the discs evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Flip the falafels carefully and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and serve warm with tzatziki sauce, in pita bread, or atop a fresh salad.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispiness, lightly spray the falafel discs with oil before baking.
Substitute ground flaxseed with one beaten egg to help bind the mixture.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Use fresh lemon juice or zest in the mixture for added brightness.

Storage

Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or oven at 350 degrees F for about 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. You can also freeze cooked falafel for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A stack of six brown and green falafel patties with a rough, crispy texture sit on a white parchment-lined wire rack on a white marbled surface. Three of the patties are topped with dollops of white yogurt sauce sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. Bright yellow lemon wedges and sprigs of fresh dill are placed around the falafel. Halved red and green cherry tomatoes add a pop of color nearby, and a small white bowl filled with more white yogurt sauce is visible in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned chickpeas for this recipe?

Yes, canned chickpeas work well—just be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to reduce excess moisture.

Do I have to bake the falafel or can I fry them instead?

Baking is a healthier option and gives a nice crisp texture, but if you prefer traditional falafel, you can shallow or deep fry them in oil until golden and crispy.