With this tempting mix of fluffy falafel and fresh vegetables, you’ll never be hangry again!
Every now and then, I get the craving for an open-faced pita sandwich stuffed with fresh veggies and herbs. The first time I ever had one was at a family-owned restaurant in the middle of nowhere, but now I can make it whenever I want at home. While at first glance, it looks like a “lunch only” kind of meal, this delectable dish could be just as scrumptious for dinner.
The gyro is a Greek classic, usually made with spicy minced meat like lamb, beef, or chicken. Falafel gyro, on the other hand, was made with hungry vegetarians in mind. We’re talking fluffy falafel dressed with smooth tzatziki, crunchy lettuce, and tomato, all cradled by a warm pita. Every bite is both satisfying and refreshing.
Is Falafel Gyro Healthy?
With a balance of protein, carbs, and fiber, this is a pretty diverse meal that offers a lot of nutrients. That being said, some adjustments can be made for those with more specific dietary requirements. If needed, use gluten-free pita bread, or put the falafel in a Greek Bowl with quinoa or Steamed Rice instead. To make this dish dairy-free, use Vegan Tzatziki.
Where Does Falafel Come From?
Today, there are quite a few different versions of falafel, but its exact origin is a mystery. Some believe that it originated in Egypt, where Coptic Christians made it under the name ta’amiya. Wherever its birthplace, it has become a beloved dish in the Middle East and the Mediterranean. It’s likely that since chickpeas grew easily in these areas, falafel was one of the easiest dishes to make in abundance. We’re blessed to have a similar kind of fortune today, whether we grow our own chickpeas or not!
How to make ahead and store
When making ahead, store each ingredient separately so nothing gets soggy. Put the falafel in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Pita bread can usually be stored at room temperature in airtight containers or baggies, but keep an eye on it. You’ll want to use it within a week. Tzatziki will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your falafel gyro with a side of Greek Fries. Alternatively, Oven-Roasted Lemon Potatoes offer a mix of tangy lemon and fresh herbs, which is a great complement to gyro spices and tzatziki. For more sweetness, try Butternut Squash Fries, Greek Chickpea Salad, Greek Healthy Broccoli Salad, or Greek Cucumber Salad.
You can also pair your falafel gyro with other Greek classics like dolmades (grape leaves) or souvlaki (kebabs), and top with some velvety hummus.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas rinsed and drained
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3/4 cup fresh chopped parsley packed
- 1/3 cup red onion roughly chopped
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 1/2 teaspoons tahini
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Sea salt to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt for tzatziki
- 1/2 cup cucumber grated (for tzatziki)
- 4 teaspoons fresh dill chopped (for tzatziki)
- 2 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice for tzatziki
- 4 pita breads warmed
- 1 cup lettuce shredded
- 1 tomato diced
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the tzatziki ingredients: Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, and fresh dill. Chill until ready to use.
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice, parsley, red onion, garlic, tahini, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pulse until well mixed but still slightly coarse.
- Add flour to the chickpea mixture and blend until you can form the dough into balls without sticking to your hands.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Form the mixture into small patties and fry each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Spread tzatziki on warmed pita, add falafel, top with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. Fold and serve.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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