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A plate of easy falafels, ideal for a quick lunch.

Classic Quick Lunch Easy Falafels

Quick and easy falafels made with canned chickpeas and fresh herbs, perfect for a fast and delicious lunch. These flavorful patties are pan-fried until golden brown and crispy.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Breakfast
Servings 4 people

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Non-stick skillet
  • Paper towels

Ingredients
  

Falafel Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (or more parsley if you're not a cilantro fan)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 small onion roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil plus more for cooking

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a food processor, combine the rinsed chickpeas, fresh parsley, fresh cilantro, minced garlic, and chopped onion.
  • Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper to the chickpea mixture.
  • Pulse the mixture until coarsely chopped with some texture, avoiding over-processing into a smooth paste.
  • Add the flour and 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then pulse a few more times until combined and the mixture holds together.
  • Form the mixture into small patties or balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter, yielding approximately 8-10 falafels.

Cooking

  • Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  • Carefully place the falafel patties in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
  • Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
  • Remove the falafels from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, serve with a tahini sauce or yogurt dip. These falafels are also great in a pita with fresh vegetables.