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Quick and Easy Plant-Based High-Fiber Falafel Bowl with Creamy Hummus Recipe

  • Kylee Melo, RD
  • 8 hours ago
  • 3 min read

Eating a meal that is both satisfying and packed with fiber can be a challenge when you’re short on time. This falafel bowl recipe solves that problem by combining convenience with nutrition. Using store-bought falafel cuts down on prep time, while the plant-based ingredients ensure a fiber-rich, wholesome meal. Plus, the creamy hummus adds a delicious, protein-packed touch that ties everything together.


Whether you want a quick lunch or a filling dinner, this falafel bowl is a perfect choice. It’s colorful, flavorful, and easy to customize. Below, you’ll find the full recipe for the falafel bowl, nutrition facts, and a separate recipe for a creamy hummus that complements the dish perfectly.



Close-up view of a colorful falafel bowl with fresh vegetables and creamy hummus


Ingredients for the Falafel Bowl


  • 4 falafel balls (choose baked or air-fried for less oil)

  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (for extra fiber)

  • 1 cup chopped cucumber

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage

  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley

  • 1/4 cup sliced red onion

  • 1/2 avocado, sliced

  • 1/4 cup kalamata olives (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

  • Salt to taste



How to Assemble the Falafel Bowl


  1. Prepare the base: Cook quinoa or brown rice according to package instructions. Let it cool slightly.

  2. Heat the falafel: Warm the store-bought falafel in the oven or air fryer until crispy.

  3. Chop the veggies: While the falafel heats, chop cucumber, tomatoes, cabbage, parsley, and onion.

  4. Mix the dressing: Combine lemon juice and salt in a small bowl.

  5. Assemble the bowl: Start with a base of quinoa or rice, then add the vegetables, falafel, avocado slices, and olives.

  6. Drizzle dressing: Pour the lemon juice dressing over the bowl.

  7. Add hummus: Spoon a generous dollop of creamy hummus on the side or on top.



Nutrition Facts for One Serving (Approximate)


  • Calories: 520 kcal

  • Protein: 18 g

  • Fiber: 20 g

  • Fat: 24 g

  • Carbohydrates: 60 g

  • Sugar: 6 g

  • Sodium: 450 mg


This bowl provides a balanced mix of macronutrients with a strong focus on fiber, thanks to the quinoa, vegetables, and chickpeas in the falafel and hummus. The fiber content supports digestion and helps keep you full longer.


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🧠 Nutritional Takeaway

  • High fiber for the calorie level → satiety + gut health

  • Moderate carbs, slow-digesting due to fiber and fat balance

  • Heart-healthy fats, minimal saturated fat

  • Naturally plant-based, gluten-free, and very blood-sugar friendly

This is an excellent light lunch or dinner, especially for:

  • Diabetes or insulin resistance

  • Heart health

  • Weight management

  • Anti-inflammatory eating


🥙 Macro Contribution Highlights

Falafel (4 balls)

  • Calories: ~180–200

  • Protein: ~8–9 g

  • Fat: ~8–10 g

  • Fiber: ~5–6 g

Quinoa (½ cup cooked)

  • Calories: ~110

  • Protein: ~4 g

  • Fiber: ~2.5 g

  • Carbs: ~20 g

Avocado (½ medium)

  • Calories: ~120

  • Fat: ~10–11 g (mostly monounsaturated)

  • Fiber: ~5 g

Vegetables + Lemon + Parsley

  • Calories: ~70–80

  • Fiber: ~6–7 g

  • Excellent vitamin C, potassium, polyphenols

Kalamata Olives (¼ cup)

  • Calories: ~60

  • Fat: ~6 g

  • Sodium: ~400–450 mg


Eye-level view of a bowl filled with falafel, quinoa, fresh vegetables, and creamy hummus


Creamy Hummus Recipe to Use with the Falafel Bowl


This hummus recipe is adapted from Kylee’s Kitchen and adds a rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with falafel. It’s simple to make and loaded with flavor.


Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • 1/4 cup tahini

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

  • Salt to taste

  • 2-3 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)

  • Fresh parsley and diced tomatoes for garnish (optional)


Instructions


  1. Combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, and salt in a food processor.

  2. Blend until smooth, adding water one tablespoon at a time to reach desired creaminess.

  3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

  4. Transfer to a bowl and garnish with parsley, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil.


This hummus can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s a great dip for veggies or a spread for sandwiches, but it shines as a creamy topping for your falafel bowl.



Tips for Making the Bowl Even Healthier and More Flavorful


  • Add more fiber: Include a handful of spinach or kale for extra greens and fiber.

  • Boost protein: Add a sprinkle of hemp seeds or pumpkin seeds on top.

  • Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or harissa sauce for heat.

  • Make it gluten-free: Use quinoa or brown rice as the base instead of couscous or pita.

  • Use fresh herbs: Fresh mint or cilantro can brighten the flavors.



High angle view of a falafel bowl with avocado slices, fresh herbs, and creamy hummus on a wooden table


This falafel bowl recipe offers a quick, plant-based meal that is rich in fiber and flavor. Using pre-made falafel saves time without sacrificing taste or nutrition. The creamy hummus recipe adds a smooth, protein-rich element that complements the crunchy falafel and fresh vegetables.


Are you a fan of falafels?

  • Yes I am!

  • Not so much.


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1 Comment

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Sarah S
8 hours ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

This is such a good idea. I love falafel wraps, but having it as a type of salad is epic.

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