Air Fryer Falafel with Tahini Yogurt Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-05-05 · Updated 2026-05-05

Crisp falafel made from chickpeas and fresh herbs cooked in the air fryer, paired with a tangy tahini yogurt sauce for a healthy, flavorful snack or light meal. This middle eastern-inspired air fryer (vegetarian) ready in about 30 minutes blends packed fresh parsley leaves, packed fresh cilantro leaves, garlic cloves into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.3 (15 ratings) Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Middle Eastern cuisine 280 cal/serving

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Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup packed fresh parsley leaves
1/2 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves
3 garlic cloves
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp ground coriander
1 tsp baking powder
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
as needed olive oil spray
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp tahini
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp water
1/4 tsp salt (for sauce)

Instructions

Step 1: In a food processor, combine 1 can (15 oz) drained chickpeas, 1 cup packed fresh parsley leaves, 1/2 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves, 3 garlic cloves, 1 tbsp ground cumin, 1 tbsp ground coriander, 1 tsp baking powder, 3 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Pulse until mixture is coarse but holds together when pressed, about 10-15 short pulses.
Step 2: Use your hands or a small ice cream scoop to form the mixture into 12 equal-sized balls or patties. Place on a plate.
Step 3: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Spray the falafel lightly with olive oil spray on all sides.
Step 4: Arrange falafel in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crisp on the outside.
Step 5: Meanwhile, make the tahini yogurt sauce by whisking together 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp tahini, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp water, and 1/4 tsp salt until smooth.
Step 6: Serve the falafel warm with the tahini yogurt sauce for dipping.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Air Fryer Falafel with Tahini Yogurt Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 30 minutes (15 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Air Fryer Falafel with Tahini Yogurt Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Air Fryer Falafel with Tahini Yogurt Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Air Fryer Falafel with Tahini Yogurt Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Air Fryer Falafel with Tahini Yogurt Sauce vegetarian?

Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.