Looking for a colorful, wholesome meal that balances protein, fiber, and flavor? The Falafel Buddha Bowl is here to brighten your day! Combining crispy homemade falafel, roasted veggies, tangy hummus, grilled halloumi, and a drizzle of creamy tahini sauce, this bowl is a nourishing delight that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. It’s perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner, bursting with Mediterranean flavors that are as comforting as they are nutritious.

For the Falafel:

• 1 1/2 cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Optional: 1 tbsp fresh mint leaves or zest of 1 lemon (for extra flavor)

Instructions for the Falafel:

1. Soak the Chickpeas: Begin by soaking the dried chickpeas in a large bowl of water overnight. This softens them, making them ready to blend. Once soaked, drain the chickpeas before using.

2. Prepare the Falafel Mixture: In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, baking powder, parsley, cilantro, and olive oil. Blend until the mixture is combined but still slightly chunky. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure an even texture. For an added flavor twist, include mint leaves or lemon zest.

3. Rest the Mixture: Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl, cover it, and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up.

4. Shape the Falafel: Once the mixture is chilled, use your hands to form small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.

5. Bake the Falafel: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the falafel balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly spray them with olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.

For the Roasted Vegetables:

• 1 red pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 eggplant, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions for the Roasted Vegetables:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss the Veggies: On a baking tray, toss the red pepper, zucchini, and eggplant with olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.

3. Roast the Vegetables: Roast the vegetables in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly browned. The roasting brings out their natural sweetness, making them the perfect complement to the falafel.

For the Bowl:

• 2 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or lettuce)
• 1/4 cup mixed vinaigrette (olive oil, vinegar, mustard, honey, salt, and pepper)
• 2 tbsp hummus
• 2 oz grilled halloumi cheese, sliced
• 1/2 cup air-fried potatoes (optional)
• 1 cup Shirazi salad (diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper)
• 2 tbsp tahini sauce (for drizzling)

Instructions for Assembling the Bowl:

1. Toss the Greens: Start by tossing the mixed greens with the vinaigrette dressing in a large bowl.

2. Add the Hummus: Spoon a generous serving of hummus on one side of the bowl, creating a creamy base for your ingredients.

3. Arrange the Veggies and Additions: Neatly arrange the roasted vegetables, grilled halloumi, air-fried potatoes (if using), and Shirazi salad in sections around the hummus. This creates a beautifully organized and colorful bowl.

4. Add the Falafel: Carefully place the baked falafel balls into the bowl, adding texture and crunch to every bite.

5. Drizzle with Tahini: Finally, drizzle tahini sauce over the top of the bowl for a smooth, creamy finish.

Enjoy this Falafel Buddha Bowl packed with flavor, protein, and healthy fats. Each bite offers a perfect balance of earthy spices, crispy falafel, creamy hummus, and vibrant roasted veggies, all brought together with the rich taste of tahini. It’s a nourishing and satisfying meal that’s not only good for your body but a feast for the eyes, too!

Perfect for: Lunch, dinner, meal prep, or as a crowd-pleasing dish at your next gathering.

This recipe is a beautiful way to bring wholesome, Mediterranean-inspired flavors into your kitchen. Try it today, and feel free to adjust the ingredients to match your own preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking for a tasty, nutritious bowl, this Falafel Buddha Bowl is a meal that everyone can enjoy!

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