This recipe brings together the rich flavors of falafel and a selection of Greek mezze dishes in one satisfying plate. I have enjoyed creating this recipe, which is perfect for anyone looking to experience a tasty vegetarian meal. The mix of textures and flavors makes every bite interesting as the crisp falafel contrasts beautifully with creamy dips and crunchy vegetables. This recipe not only serves as a complete meal but also as a conversation starter for those gathered around the table.
The idea behind this platter developed from my love for diverse tastes. I found that combining different elements into one dish creates a unique dining experience. The mix of tangy tzatziki, hearty hummus, and spiced falafel—paired with fresh vegetables and warm pita bread—builds layers of flavor. Serving this platter during family gatherings has become a popular option, especially for those with an interest in vegetarian cuisine.
Why You Will Enjoy This Recipe
- Simple yet flavorful. The recipe uses ingredients that are easy to find, letting you create a restaurant-quality dish from items already in your pantry.
- Versatile meal option. It works as a nourishing lunch, light dinner, or appetizer for your next get-together. The variety of components means there is truly something for every palate.
- Balanced texture and taste. The crunchy exterior of the falafel, the soft pita bread, and the creamy dips all add up to an engaging bite every time.
- Healthy and satisfying. With plenty of vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, this dish is a wholesome meal that leaves you feeling really important and energized.
Ingredients
Below is the list of ingredients you will need. I provide both imperial and metric measurements so you can use whichever system you are comfortable with.
- For the Falafel:
-
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (200 g) soaked overnight
- 1/2 large onion, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves (packed) (30 g)
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves (packed) (30 g)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 to 3 tablespoons water if needed
- Vegetable oil for frying
- For the Tzatziki:
-
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (240 mL)
- 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Hummus:
-
- 1 can (15 oz/425 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini (60 mL)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 to 3 tablespoons water (or aquafaba)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- A pinch of paprika for garnish
- For the Greek Mezze Platter:
-
- Fresh pita bread (4-6 pieces)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber slices
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional for lacto-vegetarians)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh lemon wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Falafel
This section covers the process to create the flavorful falafel. Start by draining the soaked chickpeas. Process the chickpeas in a food processor along with onions, garlic, parsley, and cilantro until the mixture is coarse; it is important not to over-process so that some texture remains.
Add the spices—cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper—and season with salt. Mix in the baking powder so the blend resembles a thick paste. Depending on the consistency, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water until the mixture holds together without becoming too wet.
Form small balls by shaping the mixture into pieces about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. If you prefer a patty-like shape, press them gently to form flatter discs. Refrigerate the balls for about 30 minutes so they hold their shape better when frying.
Fry the Falafel
Heat about 1 to 1.5 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or heavy-bottomed skillet until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Test the oil with a small piece of the mixture; it should bubble immediately. Carefully place a few balls in the oil, ensuring the pan is not crowded, and fry them in batches.
Cook until they are deep golden brown, usually taking about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Once done, transfer the falafel to a plate lined with paper towels so excess oil is absorbed. This step ensures a crispy exterior and a moist interior.
Prepare the Tzatziki
While the falafel cools, make the tzatziki. Combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice in a bowl. Stir until every ingredient is evenly mixed and season with salt and black pepper. Refrigerate this dip for at least 15 minutes so the flavors can meld into a cooler, creamier consistency.
Make the Hummus
Prepare the hummus by blending together the drained chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and olive oil in a high-speed blender or food processor until smooth. If the hummus seems too thick, incorporate 2 to 3 tablespoons of water until you reach the desired consistency. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and a delicate drizzle of olive oil on top.
Assemble the Greek Mezze Platter
With the individual components ready, it’s time to put the platter together. Place the warm pita bread in the center of your serving dish. Arrange the falafel, tzatziki, and hummus around the pita. Add a neat section of cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and kalamata olives for fresh color and flavor. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it over the vegetables. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and add fresh lemon wedges on the side to give a burst of tanginess.
This assembly creates a harmonious presentation that showcases a balance of textures and flavors. I enjoy inviting family and friends to share this meal, allowing everyone to pick and choose according to their own taste.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- If you prefer a baked version, arrange the falafel balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes until golden brown. This approach is a good option to reduce the amount of oil used.
- Step up the tzatziki by adding freshly chopped dill or mint. These herbs bring a bright flavor without overpowering the yogurt base.
- Add a layer of flavor by sprinkling za’atar over the hummus before serving. Za’atar—a mix of thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds—adds a pleasant earthy note.
- You can substitute part of the chickpeas with fava beans when making the hummus for a slightly different taste and texture.
- If you find the falafel mixture too coarse, pulse it a few extra times in the processor, but be cautious as overprocessing may make it too smooth and affect the texture.
- For a low-fat version, serve the falafel baked instead of fried and use low-fat Greek yogurt for the tzatziki without compromising the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I prepare components of this platter ahead of time?
A: Yes. I often make the falafel mixture a day before and store it in the fridge. The hummus and tzatziki even improve in flavor when left overnight, while the vegetables and pita bread are best prepared fresh for optimum texture.
Q: What should I do if my falafel mixture becomes too dry?
A: If the mixture seems too dry, adding a little water or a touch of olive oil during blending generally helps reach the right consistency. The blend should hold together well when formed into balls.
Q: Can I make these recipes gluten-free?
A: To adapt the recipe, you can substitute regular chickpea falafel with a gluten-free flour blend if needed, and be sure the tahini and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Using gluten-free pita bread available in specialty stores is also a good option.
Q: Is it necessary to fry the falafel?
A: Frying gives the falafel a crisp texture, but baking is a healthy alternative. If you choose to bake, adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.
Q: Can I add extra spices to the falafel for a different flavor profile?
A: Absolutely. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or even a pinch of turmeric for a unique twist. Try small variations to see which flavors best suit your palate.
Share Your Greek Mezze Experience!
I appreciate every opportunity to see how this platter brings joy to friends and family. When you make this dish, your kitchen fills with inviting aromas and a sense of community. I encourage you to experiment with different vegetable combinations or adjust the spices in the falafel. You might add roasted red peppers to the hummus or incorporate a different herb in the tzatziki, making the meal uniquely yours.
The beauty of this dish is that it welcomes personalization. I often share the recipe and receive suggestions that help me refine it. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a special dinner with guests, the refreshing combination of Mediterranean ingredients is both nutritious and enticing.
This meal serves as a central point for gatherings. I have seen people form lasting bonds over shared plates like this one. The abundance of colors and inviting presentation not only provides nourishment but also fosters a sense of togetherness.
As you plate your dish, consider the presentation as part of the overall experience. A thoughtfully arranged Greek mezze platter invites conversation and makes everyone feel special. Try different arrangements—perhaps placing the falafel in a circular pattern around the dips or lining the pita bread to make sharing easier. Your creativity is welcome in every step.
I often hear from friends who say that assembling this platter feels both simple and rewarding. The ingredients offer wonderful textures and balanced flavors that shine through without needing too many extras. This dish has become one of my favorite ways to celebrate vegetarian cooking, combining health and delicious flavors in one plate.
