Mediterranean Falafel Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing

Are you looking to elevate your plant-based diet with a nutritious and satisfying dish? Look no further than this delightful Mediterranean Falafel Salad. This sensational blend of ingredients not only pleases the palate but is also packed with beauty-boosting nutrients. From the enchanting flavor of chickpeas in falafel to the nourishing power of tahini, each component of this dish is a celebration of health and flavor. Enjoy the fusion of vibrant ingredients in this refreshing salad that’s both hearty and wholesome.  Try our recipe for…Mediterranean Falafel Salad with Lemon Tahini Dressing Today!

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What Makes Mediterranean Falafel Salad a Plant-Based Powerhouse?

How do you convert traditional recipes into plant-based marvels? The secret lies in taking iconic flavors and infusing them with nutrient-dense alternatives. This approach ensures each bite not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports your health in profound ways. Furthermore, this dish exemplifies the vibrant palette of Mediterranean cuisine, characterized by a focus on fresh vegetables, legumes, and aromatic spices. 

Beauty Benefits of Ingredients.

Every bite of this salad is not only a step towards healthier skin, hair, and nails, but also a delightful experience. Furthermore, the combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in the falafel, chickpeas, and fresh vegetables acts as a nourishing elixir for your body’s largest organ—your skin. Additionally, curly hair especially benefits from the high iron and protein content in chickpeas, which promotes growth and strength.

Nutrients for Hair, Beauty, and Health

Omega-3-Rich Dressing. The star of this recipe, lemon tahini dressing, is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are known to combat dryness and contribute to the sheen and strength of your curls. 

Falafel and Skin Elasticity. The zinc, copper, and phosphorus found in chickpeas can contribute to the production of collagen, essential for maintaining skin elasticity and warding off premature aging.

Vegetables and Skin Clarity. The myriad of vitamins found in the fresh produce accompany powerful antioxidants, combating free radicals and helping to clear up the skin. 

Mediterranean Cuisine and Health Benefits. Mediterranean meals, which prominently feature heart-healthy fats, whole grains, and lean proteins, have been linked to numerous health benefits. For instance, they can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Furthermore, by aiding weight management, adopting a Mediterranean plant-based diet can be truly transformational for your overall health and well-being.

The Sumptuous Recipe

INGREDIENTS

For the Falafel:

• • 2 cups cooked chickpeas
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon tahini
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon coriander
  • 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
  • 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
  • 3-4 tablespoons chickpea flour
  • 2-3 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
  • For the Salad:
  • Mixed salad greens
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1⁄2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • extra parsley, for garnishing
  • For the Lemon Tahini Dressing
  • 1⁄4 cup tahini
  • Juice of 1 large lemon
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

• • In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, tahini, and spices for the falafel. Pulse until mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky. If the mixture is too wet, add chickpea flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you can form a ball with the mixture that stays together. Form the mixture into small patties and set aside. 
  • Heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add falafel patties to the skillet and cook until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. 
  • Meanwhile, prepare the salad ingredients by mixing the salad greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes in a bowl. 
  • In a separate, small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the lemon tahini dressing until smooth. 
  • Once the falafel is cooked, place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. 
  • To serve, place the mixed salad onto a plate, top with falafel, red onion, and a drizzle of the lemon tahini dressing. Garnish with additional parsley if desired and enjoy!

♥ Bonus Tip for the Perfect Curls
After enjoying this vibrant salad, nourish your curls with a DIY hair mask. Simply blend 1 ripe avocado with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. Apply the mixture to damp hair, leave on for 20 minutes, then rinse for soft, well-nourished curls.

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