Easy Air Fryer Falafel: 5 Simple Steps to Blissful Flavor

Name: Easy Air Fryer Falafel: 5 Simple Steps to Blissful Flavor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander; 1/2 tsp baking powder; Salt to taste; 2 tbsp flour; Olive oil spray

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 18, 2025

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Let me tell you, making *Easy Air Fryer Falafel* is a game changer! Seriously, these little bites of heaven come together so quickly, and the air fryer makes them perfectly crispy without all the oil. I remember the first time I tried falafel at a cozy Middle Eastern café, and I was instantly hooked on their unique flavor and delightful texture. I knew I had to recreate that magic at home, but I wanted a version that was quick and easy, and that’s how this recipe came to life!

Easy Air Fryer Falafel - detail 1

Picture it: the aroma of garlic and spices wafting through your kitchen as you whip up a batch of these golden brown delights. With just a handful of ingredients like chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices, you can impress your friends and family with minimal effort. Plus, they’re vegan, packed with protein, and make for a fantastic appetizer or snack. Trust me, once you try this *Easy Air Fryer Falafel*, you’ll be singing its praises just like I do every time I make them!

Ingredients List

To make the most delicious Easy Air Fryer Falafel, you’ll need the following ingredients. I promise you, they’re simple and likely already in your pantry!

1 can chickpeas – Make sure to drain and rinse them well. This helps get rid of any canning liquid and makes for a smoother falafel.
1/2 cup fresh parsley – Chop it finely to release that vibrant flavor. Fresh herbs are a must for that authentic taste!
1/2 cup onion – I like to use yellow onion, finely chopped. It adds a sweet, savory depth to our falafel.
3 cloves garlic – Minced, of course! You can never have too much garlic in my book.
1 tsp cumin – This warm spice is key for that unforgettable Middle Eastern flavor. Don’t skip it!
1 tsp coriander – Another spice that pairs beautifully with cumin; it adds a lovely citrusy note.
1/2 tsp baking powder – This helps give our falafel a fluffy texture. A little goes a long way!
Salt to taste – Always adjust according to your preference; remember, flavors intensify during cooking!
2 tbsp flour – I usually use all-purpose flour, but you can substitute with chickpea flour for a gluten-free version.
Olive oil spray – This is my secret weapon for achieving that golden, crispy exterior in the air fryer!

Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to embark on your falafel-making adventure! It’s as easy as pie… or should I say, falafel?

How to Prepare Easy Air Fryer Falafel

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients prepped, let’s dive into making these scrumptious Easy Air Fryer Falafel. I promise, the steps are straightforward, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together! Let’s go!

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

First things first, grab your trusty food processor. This is where the magic happens! Toss in the drained chickpeas, chopped parsley, onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, baking powder, and a sprinkle of salt. Trust me, the aroma that hits you while you mix these ingredients is divine!

You want to pulse everything together until it’s coarse but still holds its shape. Aim for a texture that’s not too smooth—think of it as a chunky paste that can easily form balls. If it’s too wet, just add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. You want to be able to form the mixture into shapes without it falling apart, so give it a few test squeezes with your hands. Once it’s just right, you’re ready for the next step!

Step 2: Forming the Falafel

Now comes the fun part! Take a scoop of your mixture—about two tablespoons—and roll it into a ball. You can also flatten it into a patty if you prefer that shape. I love using a cookie scoop for this because it helps keep the sizes uniform. This way, they cook evenly in the air fryer!

Don’t worry if your first few aren’t perfect; it’s all about practice! Just make sure they’re all roughly the same size so they cook at the same rate. Once you’ve formed all your falafel, place them on a plate or tray while you get the air fryer ready. You can also refrigerate them for about 30 minutes if you want them to firm up a bit more before cooking, but that’s totally optional.

Step 3: Air Frying the Falafel

Time to get that air fryer cooking! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important because it helps achieve that crispy exterior we all love. While it’s heating up, give your falafel a light spray with olive oil. Just a quick spritz will do—this helps them get that beautiful golden color and crispiness!

Once your air fryer is ready, carefully place the falafel in the basket, making sure to leave some space between them. You want air to circulate around each piece for even cooking. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This flip is essential—don’t skip it! It ensures that both sides get that perfect crunch.

When they’re golden brown and smelling amazing, you’re ready to take them out! Let them cool for a minute or two, and then serve warm with your favorite sauce. I love a tangy tahini sauce or a refreshing yogurt dip to complement the flavors. Enjoy your homemade falafel adventure!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make Easy Air Fryer Falafel ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the falafel balls in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight. This makes them firmer and easier to cook. When you’re ready, just pop them in the air fryer!

Q2: What can I serve with Easy Air Fryer Falafel?
These falafel are incredibly versatile! You can serve them in pita bread with fresh veggies, or alongside a vibrant salad. They also pair wonderfully with dips like tahini sauce, hummus, or even a spicy harissa for an extra kick!

Q3: How do I store leftovers of Easy Air Fryer Falafel?
Leftover falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure they cool completely before sealing them up. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture!

Q4: Can I freeze Easy Air Fryer Falafel?
Definitely! You can freeze the uncooked falafel balls. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, no need to thaw—just air fry them a couple of minutes longer!

Q5: What if my falafel mixture is too dry?
If you find your mixture is too dry and crumbly, don’t panic! Just add a bit of water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. The mixture should be moist enough to hold together but not too wet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time and 12 minutes of cooking, you’ll have delicious falafel ready in under 40 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute snack.
Healthier Option: Using an air fryer means you can enjoy that crispy texture without all the oil. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that keeps the calories in check!
Full of Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh herbs creates a vibrant, mouthwatering taste that’s sure to impress. Each bite is packed with the aromatic goodness of cumin and coriander.
Vegan and Nutritious: These falafel are not only plant-based but also rich in protein and fiber, making them a wholesome choice for anyone looking to add more veggies to their diet.
Versatile: Whether you serve them in a pita, on a salad, or as a snack with your favorite dip, these falafel are perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize them to suit your taste!

Tips for Success

To ensure your *Easy Air Fryer Falafel* turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips that I’ve learned along the way. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference!

Choose the Right Chickpeas

If you can, use dried chickpeas soaked overnight instead of canned. They offer a firmer texture that holds up better in the falafel. Just remember to soak them for about 8 hours before using. If you do use canned chickpeas, be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to get rid of any excess sodium or canning liquid.

Don’t Over-Process the Mixture

When using the food processor, it’s crucial not to overdo it! You want a coarse mixture that holds together but still has some texture. If it turns into a paste, your falafel might end up too dense. Aim for that perfect balance—chunky enough to give a nice bite but cohesive enough to form into balls.

Keep the Mixture Chilled

If you have time, let your falafel mixture chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before forming. This step helps the flavors meld and makes the mixture easier to handle. Plus, it can help the falafel hold their shape better in the air fryer!

Spray Generously

Don’t skimp on the olive oil spray! A light coating is essential for achieving that golden-brown, crispy exterior. Just a few sprays on each side of the falafel will do wonders. If they aren’t crispy enough for your liking, feel free to give them another spritz halfway through cooking!

Monitor Cooking Time

Every air fryer is a little different, so keep an eye on your falafel as they cook. Start checking them around the 8-minute mark. You’re looking for a beautiful golden color and that irresistible crispy sound when you tap them. If they need a minute or two more, go for it!

By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to making the best *Easy Air Fryer Falafel* that will impress your friends and family every single time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to enjoying *Easy Air Fryer Falafel*, it’s always good to know what you’re putting into your body! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (which is about three pieces of falafel):

Calories: 150
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 250mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 6g
Sugar: 1g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But overall, you can feel good about indulging in these flavorful falafels, packed with protein and fiber while keeping the calories in check!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve made your delicious Easy Air Fryer Falafel, you might be wondering how to store any leftovers (if there are any!). Here’s the scoop on keeping them fresh and tasty!

To store your leftover falafel, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture from building up and keeps them from getting soggy. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them even longer, consider freezing them!

For freezing, I recommend placing the cooked falafel in a single layer on a baking sheet and popping them in the freezer until they’re firm. Once they’re solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can grab a few whenever the craving hits!

When it’s time to enjoy your falafel again, reheating them is super simple. If they’re frozen, you can cook them straight from the freezer without thawing. Just pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again. If you’re reheating refrigerated falafel, just air fry them for about 3-5 minutes. You want that lovely crunch back, so keep an eye on them!

And just like that, you’ve got perfectly reheated falafel that tastes just as good as when they were freshly made! Enjoy your tasty creations!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up a batch of delicious Easy Air Fryer Falafel, let’s talk about how to serve them! These little bites are super versatile and can be enjoyed in so many ways. Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:

Pita Pockets: Stuff your falafel into warm pita bread with fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Don’t forget to drizzle on some tangy tahini sauce or a zesty garlic yogurt sauce for an extra kick!
Salads: Serve your falafel on a bed of mixed greens alongside cherry tomatoes, red onions, and avocado. Toss everything together with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing meal that’s both filling and nutritious.
Dips: Pair your falafel with a variety of dips. Hummus is a classic choice, but you can also try a spicy harissa or a cooling tzatziki to complement those warm flavors. My personal favorite is a roasted red pepper dip—so good!
Meze Platter: Create a beautiful spread with your falafel, assorted dips, olives, stuffed grape leaves, and pita chips. This makes for a fantastic appetizer at gatherings and is sure to impress your guests!
Wraps: For something a little different, try wrapping your falafel in a large lettuce leaf or a tortilla with sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a fusion twist!

With these serving ideas, you can easily customize your meal to suit any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or hosting a dinner party, these Easy Air Fryer Falafel will shine on your table. Happy feasting!