Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe for Crispy Perfection

Name: Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe for Crispy Perfection
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon olive oil

July 28, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my new favorite dish: this easy air fryer falafel recipe! Seriously, if you love crispy, flavorful bites that are also healthy, you’re going to be obsessed. Making falafel can sometimes feel like a bit of a project, but with the air fryer, it’s a total game changer! You get that perfect crunch without the mess of deep frying, and it’s all done in about 25 minutes. Trust me, once you try these, you won’t want to go back to store-bought! My kids even rave about them, and that’s saying something! Plus, you can customize the spices to your taste, making it a fun and interactive meal prep. Let’s dive into making these delightful little nuggets of goodness!

easy air fryer falafel recipe - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon olive oil

How to Prepare Instructions

First things first, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important because it gets everything nice and hot, ensuring that your falafel cooks perfectly!
Next, grab your food processor and throw in the chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh cilantro, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, black pepper, and the flour. Don’t be shy! This is where all the magic happens.
Pulse the mixture until it’s coarse but well combined. You want to see some texture, but everything should be mixed up nicely. If it’s too chunky, just pulse a bit more—no biggie!
Now, it’s time to form your falafel! Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls or patties, whichever you prefer. I usually go for about the size of a golf ball. Just make sure they’re not too big, or they won’t cook through!
Here comes the fun part: brush or spray each falafel with a little olive oil. This helps them get that beautiful golden brown color and crispy exterior. You’ll be amazed at how delicious they look!
Carefully place the falafel in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It’s important not to overcrowd the basket, or they won’t cook evenly. If you have to, do this in batches.
Cook them for about 12-15 minutes. Don’t forget to flip them halfway through to ensure they’re evenly crispy all around. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and absolutely irresistible!
Once they’re done, take them out and serve warm. You can pair them with your favorite sauce—tahini, yogurt, or even a zesty salsa. Yum!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe

Quick preparation: You can whip these up in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings!
Healthier option: These falafels are air-fried instead of deep-fried, reducing the oil and calories while still delivering that satisfying crunch.
Flavor-packed: With fresh herbs and spices, every bite is bursting with flavor that makes your taste buds dance!
Customizable: You can easily tweak the spices and herbs to suit your palate, so it’s always a new adventure each time you make them.
Vegan and gluten-free-friendly: This recipe is perfect for everyone, accommodating a variety of dietary preferences.
Leftover friendly: If you have any leftovers, they store perfectly for up to three days, making for a great snack or meal prep option!
Fun to make: Shaping the falafel into little balls or patties is a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to make these delicious falafels, here are some handy tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. Trust me, a little extra attention goes a long way!

Don’t skimp on the herbs: Fresh parsley and cilantro are key to that vibrant flavor. If you’re short on one, just adjust the amounts and use what you have!
Check your chickpeas: If you’re using canned chickpeas, make sure to drain and rinse them well. This helps remove excess sodium and gives a cleaner taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even soak and cook dried chickpeas for an even fresher flavor!
Texture matters: When pulsing the mixture in your food processor, aim for a coarse texture. If it’s too smooth, your falafel might end up a bit dense. We want that perfect balance of crunch on the outside and a tender inside!
Experiment with the oil: While I love using olive oil, you can try other oils like avocado or coconut for a different flavor profile. Just remember, a little goes a long way!
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Give your falafel some space! If they’re too close together, they won’t crisp up nicely. If you have a lot, cook them in batches. It’s worth the wait!
Flip for even cooking: Make sure to flip your falafel halfway through cooking. This little step ensures that every side gets that lovely golden brown color.
Taste test: Before forming all your falafel, take a tiny bit of the mixture, cook it in the air fryer, and taste it. This way, you can adjust the spices if needed!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set for falafel success! Happy cooking!

Variations

The beauty of this easy air fryer falafel recipe is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to keep your taste buds excited. Here are some fun variations to try:

Herb Explosion: Swap out the parsley and cilantro for other herbs like dill or mint for a refreshing twist. Each herb brings its own unique flavor profile!
Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture. You can also experiment with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Nutty Goodness: Incorporate some finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, into the mixture for added crunch and richness. Just be sure to adjust the flour accordingly to keep the texture right!
Middle Eastern Flair: Add some za’atar or sumac to your blend for an authentic Middle Eastern flavor. These spices will elevate your falafel to new heights!
Sweet Potato Falafel: For a twist on the classic, blend in some cooked sweet potato into your chickpea mixture. This adds a lovely sweetness and a beautiful color!
Serving Styles: Try serving your falafel in a warm pita with fresh veggies and a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce. You can also turn them into a salad topper or a fun appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce!

With these variations, you’ll never get bored of falafel! Get creative and have fun with it—each batch can be a new adventure in flavor!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk about the nutrition of these fabulous little falafels! Here’s the estimated breakdown for this easy air fryer falafel recipe, based on a serving size of two falafel:

Calories: 120
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 6g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 200mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. But one thing is for sure—these falafels are a wholesome, nutrient-packed option that you can feel good about enjoying!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve made these delicious easy air fryer falafels, it’s time to think about how to serve them up for an amazing meal! Trust me, pairing them with the right sides can elevate your dining experience to a whole new level. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad is the perfect sidekick for falafel. Try a simple cucumber and tomato salad with a drizzle of lemon juice and olive oil. The brightness complements the falafel beautifully!
Pita Pockets: Stuff your falafel into warm pita bread with fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Don’t forget a generous dollop of tahini or yogurt sauce for that extra creaminess!
Dips Galore: Serve your falafel with a variety of dips! Tahini sauce, tzatziki, or even a spicy harissa sauce can take your bites to the next level. You can create a little dipping platter for a fun appetizer spread!
Grains: Pair your falafel with some fluffy couscous or quinoa for a hearty meal. Toss in some roasted vegetables for added flavor and nutrients!
Wrap It Up: Make a wrap with your favorite tortillas, adding falafel, greens, and a tasty sauce. This is an easy and portable option for lunches or picnics!
Middle Eastern Platter: Create a beautiful mezze platter with falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, olives, and fresh veggies. It’s perfect for sharing and feels like a mini feast!

With these serving ideas, you can mix and match to keep your meals exciting. Enjoy your falafel adventure, and don’t forget to share with friends and family—they’ll love it too!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, so you’ve made a delicious batch of easy air fryer falafel, and now you’re wondering what to do with any leftovers. No worries—I’ve got you covered! Proper storage and reheating will keep them just as tasty for your next meal.

To store your falafel, let them cool completely first. Then, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save them for a longer period, I recommend freezing them. Just layer the falafel in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll last for about 2 months that way!

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is key to maintaining that wonderful texture. For the best results, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will help them regain their crispiness without drying them out. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until warmed through.

If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, but keep in mind they won’t be quite as crispy. So, if you can, stick with the air fryer or skillet method for maximum deliciousness!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your falafel anytime without compromising on flavor or texture. Happy snacking!

FAQ Section

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer using dried chickpeas, just soak them overnight and cook them until tender. This will give your falafel an even fresher taste, but make sure to drain them well before blending!

What can I serve with my falafel?
There are so many tasty options! You can serve your easy air fryer falafel with a fresh salad, warm pita bread, or a variety of dips like tahini or tzatziki. It’s all about what you love!

How do I store leftovers?
Once your falafel has cooled completely, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just remember to reheat them properly to keep that crispy texture!

Can I make these falafel ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the falafel mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just shape and cook them when you’re ready to enjoy a quick meal!

What if my falafel mixture is too dry?
If your mixture seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of water or a bit more olive oil to help it come together. Just be careful not to add too much or it might get too wet!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.