Save A festive, colorful platter featuring crisp gluten-free falafel, vibrant dips, fresh vegetables, and gluten-free accompaniments—perfect for holiday gatherings.
I first made this holiday falafel board for a winter party, and it quickly became the centerpiece. Guests love how they can assemble their own combinations, and it makes every gathering feel special.
Ingredients
- Falafel: 2 cups (340 g) canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed, 1/2 medium red onion, roughly chopped, 3 cloves garlic, 1 cup (30 g) fresh parsley leaves, 1/2 cup (15 g) fresh cilantro leaves, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1/2 tsp baking powder (gluten-free), 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 3 tbsp gluten-free chickpea flour, vegetable oil for frying
- Dips: 1 cup (240 g) classic hummus, 1 cup (240 g) roasted red pepper hummus, 1 cup (240 g) tzatziki (use dairy-free coconut yogurt for vegan option), 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling
- Vegetables & Accompaniments: 1 cup (100 g) cherry tomatoes, halved, 1 cup (120 g) cucumber slices, 1 cup (90 g) rainbow carrots, sliced, 1 cup (100 g) radishes, sliced, 1 cup (130 g) sugar snap peas, 1/2 cup (90 g) pomegranate seeds, 1/2 cup (90 g) Kalamata olives, pitted, 1/2 cup (60 g) pickled turnips or red onions, 1/2 cup (30 g) fresh mint and parsley leaves for garnish, 6–8 gluten-free pita breads or flatbreads cut into wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the falafel mixture:
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Pulse until a coarse, sticky mixture forms. Add chickpea flour and pulse again until combined.
- Shape the falafel:
- Transfer mixture to a bowl. Using damp hands, form 18–20 small balls (about 1.5 inches in diameter).
- Fry the falafel:
- Heat 1 inch vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Fry falafel in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp (about 3–4 minutes per batch). Drain on paper towels.
- Arrange board:
- Arrange dips in small bowls and place on a large serving board.
- Add accompaniments:
- Surround dips with falafel, fresh vegetables, olives, pickles, pomegranate seeds, and gluten-free pita wedges.
- Final garnish:
- Garnish with fresh herbs and drizzle olive oil over the hummus. Serve immediately.
Save We gather around this platter every year, enjoying the crunch and flavors with family. Kids love helping to arrange the veggies and dips, making it a true family tradition.
Required Tools
Food processor, deep skillet or frying pan, slotted spoon, large serving board or platter, paper towels
Allergen Information
Contains sesame (in hummus and tahini), dairy (in tzatziki unless using dairy-free yogurt). Gluten-free, but always verify each packaged ingredient.
Nutritional Information
Each serving: 410 calories, 19 g total fat, 49 g carbohydrates, 12 g protein
Save This festive board brings everyone together and is easy to scale up for larger parties. The bright colors and bold flavors make any holiday memorable.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can the falafel be baked instead of fried?
Yes, baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, provides a crisp and lighter alternative to frying.
- → Which dips pair best with the falafel?
Classic hummus, roasted red pepper hummus, and tzatziki complement the falafel with varied flavors and creamy textures.
- → What fresh vegetables enhance the platter?
Cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, rainbow carrots, radishes, and sugar snap peas add refreshing crunch and vibrant color.
- → Are there gluten-containing ingredients to watch for?
All main components are gluten-free, but always verify gluten-free status on pita breads and baking powder used.
- → How can extra flavor and texture be added?
Roasted nuts or seeds add crunch, while a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and fresh herb garnish enhance aroma and taste.