Description
Enjoy this vibrant and wholesome Mediterranean Falafel Rice Stack, a family favorite that layers fluffy basmati rice with flavorful falafel, fresh tomato-cucumber salad, and a creamy hummus-yogurt sauce. This easy-to-make dish combines authentic Mediterranean flavors perfect for a healthy, satisfying vegetarian dinner.
Ingredients
Rice
- 1 cup basmati rice, uncooked
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
Falafel
- 12 prepared falafel balls, homemade or store-bought
Salad
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt
Sauce
- 1/3 cup hummus
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Let the rice rest: Remove the pan from heat and let the rice stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff gently with a fork to separate the grains.
- Heat the falafel: Warm the prepared falafel balls according to package instructions if store-bought, or keep warm if freshly made, ensuring they are heated through and slightly crisp on the outside.
- Make the salad: In a bowl, combine diced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, finely chopped red onion, freshly chopped parsley, lemon juice, ground cumin, garlic powder, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Mix well to blend the flavors.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the hummus and plain Greek yogurt together until smooth and well combined, creating a creamy dressing for the stack.
- Assemble the stack: On each serving plate or bowl, place a layer of the cooked basmati rice, then add a generous spoonful of the tomato-cucumber salad on top. Arrange 3 falafel balls over the salad and drizzle with the hummus-yogurt sauce. Repeat layers if desired and serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Notes
- This dish is versatile; add olives, crumbled feta cheese, or a drizzle of tahini for extra flavor.
- For a vegan version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative or use extra hummus.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold or gently reheated.
- Use freshly ground spices for more vibrant flavor.
