When it comes to enjoying the flavorful world of falafel, having the right accompaniments can elevate the experience from delightful to sublime.
Whether you prefer your falafel deep-fried or baked, in ball form or as patties, the key is finding a side dish that harmonizes with its crispy exterior and savory interior.
In this article, we’ll explore 24 mouthwatering options to pair with your favorite falafel dishes, from classic pita bread combinations to more adventurous creations. Discover how these complementary sides can take your falafel game to the next level!
What is Traditionally Served with Falafel?
While traditionalists might insist on wrapping their falafel in a warm pita alongside crunchy veggies and creamy hummus, the humble balls of goodness can also thrive as standalone snacks or centerpiece platters paired with fresh salads and tangy dipping sauces. Ultimately, what takes these Middle Eastern morsels from good to great is the clever combination of flavors and textures that accompany them. For instance:
Baba Ganoush
Baba Ganoush is a culinary delight that pairs perfectly with warm falafel, and even if you’re already familiar with the dish, it’s definitely worth trying again. The smoky, creamy, rich, and velvety texture of this super nutritious side dish makes it a guilt-free pleasure. For those who prefer a little heat, adding extra chili pepper flakes can easily elevate the flavor profile. To complete the experience, simply top with fresh parsley and serve.
Tzatziki Sauce
In many Middle Eastern cuisines, serving tzatziki sauce alongside falafel or pita bread is considered an essential pairing. In fact, omitting this condiment can be seen as a culinary faux pas. The creamy yogurt and refreshing ingredients in this recipe make it the ultimate accompaniment to your favorite Mediterranean dishes. When served straight from the refrigerator, the sauce’s cooling effect complements the warm flavors of falafel perfectly. Give this tzatziki recipe a try and experience the perfect harmony of flavors for yourself.
Tabbouleh
Imagine a vibrant salad bursting with fresh flavors – juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and an array of herbs infused with zesty lemon juice. This nutrient-packed masterpiece not only satisfies your palate but also leaves you feeling full and content. The secret to its depth lies in the harmonious blend of parsley and mint, though feel free to substitute with your favorite herbs for a unique twist. When cooking the bulgur, be sure to simmer it in broth to unlock its true flavor potential – the result is a delightfully bright and inviting dish that pairs perfectly with a crispy falafel sandwich.
Cauliflower Tabouli
While traditional bulgur tabbouleh may not be suitable for those avoiding grains or keeping carbs low, this cauliflower version is a game-changer. Not only does it eliminate gluten and reduce carb content, but it also packs a punch of Mediterranean flavor and nutrition. This raw salad is incredibly versatile, pairing well with a wide range of main courses, including falafel balls. For an added layer of indulgence, simply crumble some feta cheese on top. The result is a deliciously healthy and satisfying meal option.
Mediterranean Bean Salad
The decision between chickpeas and white beans is no longer necessary, as this vibrant salad combines the best of both worlds. A medley of colorful ingredients – including peppers, tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, beans, chickpeas, herbs, and crumbly feta – creates a feast for the eyes and taste buds. With its long list of wholesome ingredients, this salad is simplicity itself to prepare. Moreover, it doubles as a satisfying main course, whether topped with crispy falafel or not. For an additional dose of flavor, consider pairing it with another bean-based masterpiece, such as our Mexican-inspired salad.
Air Fryer Naan Bread
If you’re familiar with making naan bread at home, then you’ll love trying it in the Air Fryer for a game-changing twist. The process is surprisingly straightforward, requiring just your standard baking staples and a dollop of yogurt. The result is a fluffy, soft bread that’s perfect not only for pairing with falafel, but also on its own as a satisfying snack. But be warned: the savory garlicky butter coating is so irresistible that you might find yourself devouring the entire loaf before it even has a chance to meet any other toppings.
Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables
It’s hard to argue against the versatility of roasted vegetables – they pair seamlessly with an impressive array of dishes, from fish and grilled meats to grains and vegetarian entrees. One particularly delightful combination is serving them alongside falafel. The recipe in question features a medley of carrots, zucchini, peppers, squash, onions, and tomatoes, but don’t feel constrained by this selection – the beauty of roasted vegetables lies in their adaptability, so feel free to incorporate whatever veggies you have on hand that roast well. To elevate the dish further, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice for its bright, citrusy flavor.
Spicy Chickpea Dip
Say goodbye to tahini sauce! This spicy chickpea dip recipe is a game-changer for hummus lovers. Simply combine olive oil, lemon juice, jalapeño peppers, garlic, and spices in your food processor, and you’ll have a deliciously healthy and vegan-friendly dip that’s 100% free from animal products. And the best part? You can whip it up in under 15 minutes using ingredients readily available at most local grocery stores – perfect for a quick snack or accompaniment to your favorite falafel.
Keto Tabbouleh Salad
Imagine a vibrant, flavorful twist on the traditional Tabbouleh recipe – one that shirks away from grains and bulgur to focus on nutrient-rich hemp seeds as its base. The combination of half a cup of hemp seeds, fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy lemon-infused olive oil dressing creates a culinary experience that’s not only surprisingly delightful but also incredibly nutritious. What sets this keto version apart is its ability to cater to those with dietary restrictions while still delivering on flavor. When paired with crispy falafel, the result is a match made in heaven.
Homemade Pita Bread
With a plethora of recipes claiming to yield the perfect homemade pita bread, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of uncertainty. But fear not, dear reader, as we’ve cracked the code on creating these soft, fluffy pockets with ease.
nThe secret lies in the harmonious balance of ingredients, which we’ve meticulously outlined below. By following our straightforward steps, you’ll be well on your way to crafting pita bread that’s simply begging to be stuffed with falafel, or perhaps even served as a trusty dipper for cheese fondue.
nThe best part? These puffed pockets of joy are surprisingly easy to create, making them the perfect canvas for your favorite spreads and fillings.
Muhammara
For those who delight in dips and appreciate the bold flavor of red peppers, I’m thrilled to introduce you to muhammara – a Middle Eastern culinary gem that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. This vibrant dip combines roasted red peppers with the satisfying crunch of walnuts, the brightness of lemon juice, the richness of pomegranate molasses, and a pinch of aromatic spices. The result is a harmonious blend of creamy, nutty, sweet, sour, and salty flavors that’s both filling and addictive. While traditional recipes often rely on walnuts for their distinct flavor, feel free to substitute roasted peanuts if you’re out or prefer the alternative texture. When paired with crispy falafel and melted cheese, muhammara truly shines as a delectable accompaniment to your favorite snacks.
Labneh Dip with Zaatar
For those with a taste for Middle Eastern cuisine, this creamy dip is the perfect accompaniment to falafel. Its rich texture also makes it a satisfying spread on toasted bread. The combination of labneh, zaatar, walnuts, and fresh herbs creates a flavor profile that pairs beautifully with oriental dishes. However, it’s worth noting that the dip does contain a number of salty ingredients, so be mindful when seasoning to balance out the flavors.
Fattoush Salad
This Lebanese salad is a symphony of textures and flavors – think crispy, crunchy, tangy, and bursting with nutrients. At its core, the dish consists simply of chopped veggies and toasted pita bread. Yet, it’s the judicious addition of sumac and mint that elevates this humble combination into something truly exceptional.
A perfect way to repurpose leftover veggies and pita, this salad is sure to become a staple in your household. Feel free to add some crumbled cheese for an extra layer of richness if you desire.
Chopped Veggie Salad
Savor the flavors of your garden by transforming fresh produce into a vibrant and nutritious salad. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility, as you can incorporate whatever seasonal veggies you have on hand. To elevate the dish, add some pungent herbs and finish it off with crumbly feta cheese. A drizzle of tangy oregano-infused dressing ties everything together, creating a culinary masterpiece that’s both simple to prepare and bursting with nutrients. The end result is a kaleidoscope of colors that will transport you straight to summer. And if you’re craving another delicious veggie-filled treat, why not try pairing it with our bulgur wheat salad featuring creamy avocado?
Israeli Salad
For those who crave a fresh salad, this recipe is sure to please. A harmonious blend of vegetables, herbs, and lemon juice combines to create a satisfying and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, relying on just one herb – parsley – although feel free to add some chopped mint for an extra burst of flavor. To take it to the next level, try topping with crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of pomegranate arils for a delightful combination that’s sure to satisfy.
Vegan Roasted Beetroot Dip
Beetroot dip’s healthy reputation precedes it, but this side dish is even more impressive when you factor in its rich, complex flavor profile. Describing it as creamy, zesty, velvety, and mouthwateringly delicious barely scratches the surface. Its vibrant color is so striking that even a lackluster main course can’t help but be elevated by its presence. The recipe’s clever combination of tahini, white beans, lemon, and an assortment of spices yields a culinary experience that’s as visually stunning as it is tantalizing to the taste buds. A sprinkle of chopped herbs and seeds adds a satisfying textural element, making this dip a true showstopper.
Edamame Hummus
If you’re not a fan of chickpeas, this edamame hummus recipe offers a delicious alternative. By substituting chickpeas with edamame, the carb count is significantly lower. The real stars of the show are the classic combination of lemon, garlic, and cilantro, which work together to create a flavorful and aromatic dip that elevates the humble puree into something truly special. For an extra kick, add some chili flakes to give your hummus an added layer of depth. This tasty treat is perfect for dipping veggie sticks, and it’s even more delightful paired with crispy falafel.
Whipped Feta
For those who share a passion for cheese, I’m thrilled to introduce a dip that pairs exquisitely with warm pita bread, crunchy pita chips, fresh vegetables, and crispy falafel. The game-changer is a whipped feta combination featuring sour cream, a squeeze of lemon juice, minced garlic, and a hint of citrusy zest for an added burst of flavor. This harmonious blend also lends itself beautifully to sweet and salty pairings – give it a try with refreshing fruits like watermelon, peach, or grapes for an unforgettable taste experience.
Yogurt Flatbreads
When it comes to pairing falafel with flatbread, we’ve already covered the importance of a perfect wrap. But what about when you want to elevate your snack game and take your falafel party to the next level? That’s where this incredible homemade flatbread recipe comes in. By combining simple ingredients like flour and yogurt, you can create soft, fluffy, and incredibly versatile bread that will effortlessly absorb any spread or sauce. And with its tender texture and subtle flavor, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your favorite falafel fillings. So why not give it a try? With just a few basic steps and some practice, you’ll be whipping up wraps like a pro in no time.
Greek Yogurt Cucumber Salad
The harmonious pairing of yogurt and cucumber speaks for itself, making them an ideal match for falafel. But why stop there? Adding dill and chili flakes takes this combination to the next level, resulting in a salad that’s both flavorful and refreshing. Serving it straight from the refrigerator or using chilled cucumbers ensures optimal flavor and texture. This delightful summer side dish is perfect on its own or paired with grilled chicken for a satisfying meal.
Shirazi Salad
Indulge in the flavors of Shirazi salad, a Persian delight that’s perfect for any occasion. This refreshing recipe is a masterclass in simplicity, combining cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onion, and fresh mint with a hint of olive oil and spices. Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite herbs – the more, the merrier! The result is a vibrant bowl of goodness that’s reminiscent of tabbouleh or fresh salsa, packed with finely chopped veggies that add depth and texture to any meal. Take it to the next level by sprinkling pine nuts or sesame seeds on top for an added crunch. And if you’re a fan of tomato-based salads, you’ll love this spin-off featuring spinach and feta – it’s sure to become a new favorite!
