Falafel Pita Sandwich with Tahini Sauce

Falafel Pita Sandwich with Tahini Sauce

This Falafel Pita Sandwich with Tahini Sauce offers a delightful combination of crispy falafel, fresh vegetables, and creamy tahini, all tucked inside warm pita bread. It's a perfect meal that brings Middle Eastern flavors straight to your kitchen.

Vegetarian

Prep Time

20 min

Cook Time

10 min

Servings

6

Falafel, a beloved Middle Eastern street food, consists of spiced chickpea patties that are traditionally deep-fried but here are oven-baked for a healthier twist. This recipe combines falafel with a luscious tahini sauce, made from sesame seed paste, lemon juice, fresh garlic, and a touch of smoky paprika, creating a smooth, nutty complement to the crispy patties. Stuffed into soft pita pockets along with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, cool cucumber, tangy pickles, and sharp red onion, each bite bursts with textures and flavors. Originating from the Levant region, falafel has become a global favorite for its satisfying taste and plant-based protein. These sandwiches are fantastic served alongside a simple side salad, pickled vegetables, or a refreshing mint yogurt drink to balance the spices. They make an excellent lunch, light dinner, or even an on-the-go snack. The use of harissa, a North African chili paste, adds a pleasantly spicy kick if you enjoy a bit of heat, but it's easy to adjust according to your taste. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore Middle Eastern cuisine with a straightforward approach that doesn't compromise on flavor or authenticity.

Ingredients

  • 12 Falafel
  • 0.25 cup Tahini
  • 0.25 cup Water
  • 2 tablespoon Lemon Juice
  • 2 clove Garlic
  • 0.25 tsp Paprika
  • 6 Pita Bread
  • 1 Lettuce
  • 1 Tomato
  • 0.5 Cucumber
  • 1 Dill Pickles
  • 0.25 Red Onions
  • 3 tsp Harissa Spice

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to a hot 450 degrees F (230 degrees C), ensuring it’s ready to perfectly warm the falafel. Arrange all 12 falafel evenly on a baking sheet, giving them plenty of space for even heating. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the falafel for about 8 to 10 minutes, until they are heated through and have a slight crisp on the outside. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. While the falafel are baking, prepare the tahini sauce. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup tahini, 1/4 cup water, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon paprika. This blend creates a creamy, tangy sauce with a hint of smoky warmth. Next, prepare your pita bread by slicing approximately 1 inch off the top of each to create a pocket. This will easily hold all your delicious fillings without spilling. Assemble each sandwich by gently stuffing 2 falafel into each pita pocket. Add fresh, crunchy lettuce, juicy tomato slices, cool cucumber pieces, tangy dill pickles, and thinly sliced red onions in equal amounts to ensure every bite is bursting with freshness. Finally, drizzle each stuffed pita with about 1 tablespoon of your freshly whisked tahini sauce and a sprinkle of 1/2 teaspoon harissa for a bold, spicy kick. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor, and enjoy the vibrant harmony of tastes in every satisfying bite.

Quick Info

Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
10 min
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6