Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsCafe AthensFalafel Side With Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Falafel Side With Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Inspired by Cafe Athens
Time1h
Serves4

Vegetarian meatballs (chickpeas) served with tzatziki sauce and calamata olives.

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Ingredients

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Falafel

Serving

Method

Falafel Preparation

  1. 1

    Prepare Chickpeas

    If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them under cold water. If using cooked chickpeas, make sure they are well-drained.

  2. 2

    Mix Ingredients

    In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, chopped parsley, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, baking powder, flour, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky.

  3. 3

    Shape Falafels

    Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up. Once chilled, shape the mixture into small balls or patties.

  4. 4

    Fry Falafels

    Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the falafel balls in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Tzatziki Sauce Preparation

  1. 5

    Prepare Cucumber

    Grate the cucumber and place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out excess moisture.

  2. 6

    Mix Sauce Ingredients

    In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Serving

  1. 7

    Plate the Dish

    Serve the warm falafel balls on a plate alongside a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce and kalamata olives.

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