What to Serve with Falafel (80+ Tasty Options)

Wondering what to serve with falafel? Falafel is a tasty and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways.

What to Eat with Falafel?

To appreciate the full potential of falafel, one must consider the symphony of flavors that accompany it. Falafel is often served with a variety of sides that complement its texture and taste. The key to enhancing the falafel experience lies in pairing it with the right accompaniments that balance its flavors.

A well-rounded falafel meal typically includes a mix of fresh ingredients that highlight the crispy exterior and soft interior of the falafel. These sides not only add flavor but also texture, creating a satisfying and complete dish. From creamy dips to crunchy salads, the possibilities are endless, each offering a unique twist to the classic falafel taste.

For those new to the falafel scene, starting with traditional sides is a great way to ease into this culinary adventure. These sides provide a familiar yet authentic taste that showcases the falafel’s cultural roots and culinary heritage.

What are the Best Traditional Sides for Falafel?

Traditional sides for falafel pay homage to its Middle Eastern origins and enhance its distinct flavor profile. Here are some of the best traditional sides to serve with falafel:

Hummus: A creamy chickpea dip made with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. This classic side adds a rich and nutty flavor to balance the crispy texture of falafel.
Baba ghanoush: Another popular Middle Eastern dip made from roasted eggplant, tahini, and spices. Its smoky taste complements the earthy flavors of falafel.
Tzatziki: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce with cucumber, dill, and garlic. This tangy yet cool sauce provides a contrast to the warm and savory falafel.
Tabbouleh: A parsley and bulgur wheat salad with tomatoes, onions, and herbs. This fresh and crisp side adds a burst of flavor to the falafel.
Garlic Sauce: A deliciously creamy sauce made with garlic, oil, and lemon juice, this condiment adds a burst of flavor to falafel wraps or sandwiches.
Pita Bread: A staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, pita bread is the perfect vessel for falafel. The soft and fluffy bread complements the crispy exterior of the falafel, creating a delicious contrast in textures.

What Other Sides Can You Serve with Falafel?

While traditional sides are a great starting point, there is no limit to what can accompany falafel. Here are some ideas for additional sides that pair well with this beloved dish:

Fries or pita chips: For those looking for a more filling meal, serving falafel with fries or pita chips adds a satisfying crunch to the dish.
Grilled vegetables: Grilling vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers add a smoky depth of flavor that complements the falafel’s earthiness.
Couscous: This fluffy grain is a wonderful alternative to rice and provides a hearty base for falafel. It can be served plain or mixed with herbs, spices, and vegetables.
Roasted potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes are another tasty starch option to serve with falafel. They add a savory element to balance out the other flavors in the meal.
Avocado: Adding slices or mashed avocado to your falafel wrap brings a creamy and satisfying element to the dish.
Mango Salsa: The sweetness of mangoes pairs perfectly with the savory falafel. Try adding it as a topping or side for a unique twist.
Roasted Vegetables: Add depth and heartiness to your falafel meal by roasting vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, and zucchini. These can be enjoyed as a side dish or added to a wrap.
Tahini Sauce: Similar to hummus but with a nuttier taste, tahini sauce is another delicious dip that goes well with falafel.
Falafel Salad: Instead of wrapping falafel in pita bread, try adding it on top of a bed of greens for a lighter and healthier option.

What Salads Work Best with Falafel?

Salads are a great way to add freshness and crunch to your falafel meal. They can be served as a side dish or incorporated into the wrap for added texture and flavor. Some salads that work well with falafel include:

Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A classic choice that provides a refreshing and crisp contrast to the warm falafel.
Greek Salad: A Mediterranean favorite made with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. The salty feta complements the flavors of falafel perfectly.
Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed grain adds texture and nuttiness to your falafel meal, making it more filling and nutritious.
Fattoush Salad: This popular Middle Eastern salad is made with mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, and pita chips. The crunchy texture of the pita chips pairs well with the crispy falafel.
Israeli Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers dressed in a light lemon vinaigrette. This salad adds brightness to the meal and goes well with falafel wraps or sandwiches.
Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed option, quinoa salad can be made with a variety of vegetables and herbs to add flavor and texture to falafel.
Roasted Beet Salad: For a colorful and flavorful option, try combining roasted beets with greens, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette. The sweetness of the beets complements the savory falafel perfectly.
Roasted Vegetable Salad: Roast a variety of vegetables such as eggplants, zucchini, and bell peppers, and toss them with a simple vinaigrette. This salad adds heartiness and depth to the meal.

Which Drinks Complement Falafel the Best?

Falafel is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Here are some beverage options to consider when enjoying falafel:

Lemonade: A refreshing and classic choice, lemonade’s tanginess contrasts nicely with falafel’s flavors.
Mint Lemonade: Adding fresh mint to lemonade creates a refreshing and slightly sweet drink that complements falafel’s earthy notes.
Iced Tea: For a subtle yet flavorful option, iced tea pairs perfectly, with its light and crisp taste enhancing the bold falafel flavors.
Mint Tea: A staple in many Middle Eastern countries, mint tea’s herbal and slightly sweet flavor complements falafel well, aiding digestion whether served hot or iced.
Sparkling Water: A non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime cleanses the palate and enhances falafel flavors.
Lassi: This traditional Indian yogurt drink offers a creamy texture and tangy taste, providing a nice contrast to the crispy falafel.
Ayran: A Turkish yogurt drink, ayran is refreshing and tangy, balancing the spices in falafel.
Beer: If you prefer alcohol, a cold beer cleanses the palate with its carbonation and balances the richness of the falafel.
Wine: For a more elevated option, a light, fruity red or white wine can enhance the flavors of the dish.
Soda: If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, soda’s sweetness helps balance out the savory flavors of falafel.

What are Some Unconventional Sides to Serve with Falafel?

While traditional and common sides are always a great choice, sometimes it’s fun to mix things up with some unconventional pairings. Here are some unique sides that you may not have thought of before:

Fruit Salad: The sweetness of fresh fruit can add a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of falafel.
Edamame: These steamed soybeans make for a healthy and protein-packed side dish that pairs well with falafel.
Pickled Vegetables: Adding some tangy pickled vegetables such as cucumbers or beets can add a burst of flavor to your falafel meal.
Plantains: Fried plantains provide a sweet and savory element to the dish, creating a unique combination of flavors.
Sweet Potato Fries: Swap out traditional potato fries for sweet potato fries for added nutrition and sweetness to your meal.
Kimchi: This spicy and tangy Korean fermented cabbage makes for an interesting contrast when paired with falafel.
Pita Chips: Instead of pita bread, try serving falafel with crispy pita chips for added texture and crunch.

What Dips Can Elevate Your Falafel Experience?

Looking to spice things up and add some international flavors to your falafel dish? Here are some dips to try:

Harissa: A spicy North African dip made with hot chilies, garlic, and spices. Its heat pairs well with the savory falafel.
Baba Ganoush: This smoky eggplant dip adds a rich and creamy texture to falafel wraps or on its own as a side dish.
Zhug: A Middle Eastern herb sauce made with cilantro, parsley, and chili peppers. Its freshness cuts through the richness of falafel.
Tzatziki: A Greek cucumber yogurt dip that adds coolness and tanginess to the dish.
Hummus: A classic chickpea dip that pairs perfectly with the flavors of falafel. Try different variations such as roasted red pepper or spicy hummus for added depth of flavor.
Tahini: Made from sesame seeds, this nutty and creamy dip adds a subtle sweetness to falafel.

What are Some Unexpected Falafel and Fruit Combinations?

While fruit may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of falafel, it can actually make for some delicious and unexpected pairings. Here are some combinations to try:

Mango Salsa: The sweetness of ripe mango pairs beautifully with the spices in falafel. Enhance it with diced red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing twist.
Pineapple Slaw: This tropical addition brings a tangy-sweet flavor to your falafel wrap. Combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and a touch of mayo for a unique slaw.
Pomegranate Seeds: Sprinkle pomegranate seeds over your falafel wrap or salad for a burst of sweetness and added texture.
Pear Chutney: Simmer diced pears with vinegar, ginger, cinnamon, and sugar to create a delightful pairing for the savory flavors of falafel.
Mango Chutney: This sweet and tangy condiment elevates your falafel meal with a burst of flavor.
Apricot Chutney: A tangy and slightly sweet option that balances the spiciness of falafel.
Apple Chutney: Adds a unique twist with a savory-sweet balance.
Pineapple Cucumber Salad: Combine sweet pineapple with refreshing cucumber for brightness and crunch.
Watermelon Salad: A light and juicy option that adds freshness, especially in the summer.
Pear and Feta Salad: Juicy pears combined with salty feta create a flavorful and refreshing side dish.
Fig Compote: Cook figs with brown sugar and balsamic vinegar for a sweet-tangy compote that pairs well with falafel.
Fig Jam: The sweetness of fig jam complements the earthy flavors of falafel for a unique combination.
Avocado Toast: Top your avocado toast with crumbled falafel for an unexpected twist on this trendy dish.
Cranberry Sauce: The sweet-tart flavors of cranberry sauce provide a unique contrast to the savory falafel.

How Can You Use Leftover Falafel?

If you have some leftover falafel, don’t let it go to waste! Here are some creative ways to use up those extra falafel balls:

Falafel Burger: Reheat the falafel in a skillet or air fryer and use them as a patty for a vegetarian burger. Top with your favorite toppings such as avocado, lettuce, and tomato.
Falafel Wrap: Stuff your leftover falafel into a wrap or pita bread with some fresh veggies and tzatziki sauce for an easy on-the-go meal.
Falafel Sandwich: Fill pita bread or rolls with leftover falafel, vegetables, and sauce for a tasty sandwich option.
Falafel Tacos: For a fusion twist, use leftover falafel as a filling for tacos and top with traditional taco toppings such as salsa, avocado, and shredded cheese.
Falafel Salad: Break up the falafel into pieces and toss them into a salad for added protein and crunch.
Falafel Crumbles: Crumble up the falafel and use it as a topping for pizza or in a grain bowl for added protein and flavor.
Falafel Dip: Mash up the falafel balls and mix them with hummus to create a unique dip for veggies or pita chips.
Falafel Breakfast Scramble: Crumble up the falafel and cook it with scrambled eggs and your choice of vegetables for a hearty breakfast option.

How Can You Incorporate Falafel into Fusion Dishes?

Falafel’s bold flavors and versatile nature make it a great ingredient to incorporate into fusion dishes. Here are some ideas to try:

Falafel Tacos: Mix up your taco game by using falafel as the protein in tacos instead of traditional meat options. Top with salsa, avocado, and cilantro for a tasty fusion dish.
Falafel Burger: Use falafel as a patty for a vegetarian burger and top with Asian-inspired toppings such as pickled carrots, cucumbers, and sriracha mayo.
Falafel Curry: Add falafel balls to a curry sauce for added texture and flavor. Serve over rice or with naan bread for a complete meal.
Falafel Kebabs: Thread falafel onto skewers along with your choice of vegetables and grill them for a unique kebab experience. Serve with tzatziki sauce for dipping.
Falafel Stir-Fry: Use falafel as the protein in a stir-fry dish and add your favorite vegetables and sauces for a fusion twist on this classic dish.
Falafel Pizza: Top a pizza crust with hummus, crumbled falafel, and your choice of vegetables for a tasty vegetarian pizza option.
Falafel Sushi Rolls: Roll up cooked falafel balls with rice, avocado, and cucumber to create a unique sushi roll. Dip in soy sauce or spicy mayo for added flavor.
Falafel Enchiladas: Stuff tortillas with falafel, black beans, and cheese, then bake in a tomato sauce for a fusion take on enchiladas.
Falafel Lasagna: Layer-cooked falafel balls with lasagna noodles, marinara sauce, and ricotta cheese for a tasty Mediterranean twist on this Italian dish.
Falafel Fried Rice: Crumble up falafel and add it to fried rice for added protein and flavor. Top with soy sauce or your favorite Asian-inspired sauces.

What are Unique Salad Ideas to Go with Falafel?

If you’re looking for some creative and unique salad ideas to pair with falafel, here are some suggestions:

Falafel Greek Salad: Combine chopped romaine lettuce, diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta cheese, and a few falafel balls. Drizzle with tzatziki sauce or a lemon vinaigrette dressing.
Falafel Couscous Salad: Cook couscous according to package instructions and mix in chopped red bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and cooked falafel balls. Dress with a lemon vinaigrette or hummus dressing.
Falafel Quinoa Bowl: Fill a bowl with cooked quinoa and top with roasted vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. Add some falafel balls on top and drizzle with tzatziki sauce or tahini dressing.
Falafel Cobb Salad: Create a twist on the classic Cobb salad by adding falafel along with avocado, bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and crumbled blue cheese over a bed of mixed greens.
Falafel Caprese Salad: Layer sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and falafel balls on a bed of arugula. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a tasty Mediterranean-inspired salad.
Falafel Caesar Salad: Top chopped romaine lettuce with croutons, parmesan cheese, and falafel balls. Toss in Caesar dressing for a twist on this popular salad.
Falafel Panzanella Salad: Combine stale bread cubes, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, red onion, and falafel balls in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for an Italian-inspired salad.
Falafel Taco Salad: Use crushed tortilla chips as the base of your salad and top with mixed greens, black beans, corn, bell peppers, and falafel balls. Drizzle with salsa or a cilantro lime dressing.
Falafel Waldorf Salad: Mix diced apples, celery, grapes, walnuts, and falafel balls with Greek yogurt for a healthier take on this classic salad.
Falafel Asian Noodle Salad: Combine cooked soba noodles with shredded cabbage, carrots, edamame beans, and falafel balls. Toss in a peanut sauce for an Asian-inspired fusion dish.
Falafel Fruit Salad: Create a refreshing fruit salad by combining chopped watermelon, pineapple, mangoes, strawberries, and a few falafel balls. Drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze for added sweetness.
Falafel Watermelon and Feta Salad: Combine diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, chopped mint leaves, and falafel balls for a fresh and flavorful summer salad. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dressing.
Falafel Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad: Grill sliced peaches and toss with arugula, balsamic dressing, and falafel balls for a sweet and savory salad. Top with crumbled goat cheese for added creaminess.

Where to Find the Best Falafel?

Finding the perfect falafel spot can be a rewarding adventure, especially if you’re eager to enjoy authentic and delicious flavors. In Houston, Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine is a must-visit destination for falafel lovers. With its commitment to traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients, Aladdin showcases the best of Mediterranean cuisine.

At Aladdin, you’ll discover expertly crafted falafel, featuring a perfect balance of spices and a satisfying crunch. Their focus on authenticity ensures that every bite transports you to the heart of the Mediterranean. The restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a favorite among both locals and visitors, providing a memorable dining experience that celebrates the rich flavors of the region.

Whether you’re a falafel fan or new to Middle Eastern cuisine, Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine offers a welcoming environment for exploring a variety of dishes. Their dedication to quality and taste makes them a top choice for anyone seeking an exceptional falafel experience. Visit Aladdin and discover the vibrant flavors and culinary traditions that make falafel a beloved dish worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat falafel by itself?

While falafel is traditionally served in a pita or wrapped with various toppings and condiments, it can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack or appetizer.

How are falafels traditionally eaten?

Falafels are typically eaten as a sandwich or wrap, with fillings such as veggies, dips, and sauces. They can also be served on a platter with various sides and dips for dipping.

What is the main ingredient in falafel?

The main ingredient in falafel is chickpeas, which are blended with herbs and spices before being formed into balls or patties and fried.

Can you eat falafels without cooking?

It is not recommended to eat raw falafels as they are typically made with uncooked chickpeas. However, some restaurants offer a baked or grilled option for those looking for a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version.

Are falafels ready to eat?

Falafels are typically cooked before being served and should be eaten when they are warm for the best flavor and texture.

What to Serve with Falafel?