Elevate your healthy eating game with this Heart-Healthy Baked Falafel recipe! Made with nutrient-packed chickpeas, vibrant fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, and a bold blend of spices, these golden bites are baked—not fried—for a lighter yet irresistibly crispy texture. Quick to prepare and loaded with fiber, plant-based protein, and heart-smart olive oil, these falafels are perfect for clean eating enthusiasts and anyone seeking a wholesome meal. Serve them warm in a whole-grain pita with creamy tahini and crisp veggies, or pair them with your favorite dips for an easy, nourishing snack. Best of all, they’re ready in under 40 minutes and make a delicious addition to your weeknight dinner lineup!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky. Avoid over-processing into a paste.
Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl and add the baking powder and whole wheat flour. Stir well to incorporate.
Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then form the mixture into small round balls or patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
Place the falafel on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Brush the top of each falafel with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil for a crispy finish.
Sprinkle the falafel with smoked paprika for added flavor and color.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them midway through to ensure even baking until they are golden brown and firm.
Once baked, allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Enjoy warm with a side of hummus or in pita bread with tahini sauce, fresh vegetables, and greens.
Calories |
755 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 36.0 g | 46% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.4 g | 27% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 4082 mg | 177% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 90.4 g | 33% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.7 g | 78% | |
| Total Sugars | 14.2 g | ||
| Protein | 23.1 g | 46% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 265 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 9.7 mg | 54% | |
| Potassium | 1310 mg | 28% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.