Pin It A vibrant and festive vegetarian wrap featuring crispy falafel, creamy tzatziki, and colorful vegetables, arranged in a wreath for a show-stopping holiday centerpiece.
This wrap has become a beloved holiday tradition in my family because it impresses guests and brings everyone together around the table.
Ingredients
- Falafel: 2 (15-oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed, 1 small onion, roughly chopped, 3 cloves garlic, ½ cup fresh parsley leaves, ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, ½ tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp salt, ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, ½ tsp baking powder, 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing or pan-frying)
- Tzatziki: 1 cup Greek yogurt (full fat or low fat), ½ cup finely grated cucumber, excess liquid squeezed out, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 clove garlic, finely minced, 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped, Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Wrap & Garnishes: 6 large flour or spinach tortillas, 2 cups baby spinach or mixed greens, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, ½ cup pomegranate seeds, ½ small red onion, thinly sliced, ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional), Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cayenne, salt, pepper, flour, and baking powder. Pulse until a coarse mixture forms do not over-process.
- Step 3:
- Shape the mixture into 18 20 small falafel balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet and brush or spray lightly with olive oil.
- Step 4:
- Bake for 20 25 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp. Alternatively, pan-fry in batches with a little olive oil.
- Step 5:
- Meanwhile, make the tzatziki In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to use.
- Step 6:
- Warm the tortillas gently in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
- Step 7:
- Lay out the tortillas in a circular wreath pattern on a large serving board or platter, overlapping slightly.
- Step 8:
- Spread a layer of tzatziki onto each tortilla. Top with spinach, falafel, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta (if using).
- Step 9:
- Fold and tuck the tortillas to enclose the filling, forming a continuous wreath. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Step 10:
- Garnish with pomegranate seeds and fresh mint leaves. Serve extra tzatziki on the side.
Pin It This dish always brings smiles to my family gatherings and creates lasting memories during the holidays.
Notes
Add roasted red peppers, cucumber ribbons, or pickled turnips for extra color and flavor.
Required Tools
Food processor, baking sheet, parchment paper, mixing bowls, chefs knife, cutting board, serving platter or board, toothpicks (optional).
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (tortillas) and dairy (Greek yogurt, feta). For gluten-free, use gluten-free tortillas and verify all ingredients. For dairy-free, substitute with plant-based yogurt and omit feta.
Pin It This festive falafel wreath wrap is perfect for celebrations and can be adapted easily to suit dietary needs.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make the falafel crispier?
Brush or lightly oil the falafel balls before baking and turn halfway through cooking to ensure even crispness. Alternatively, pan-fry in olive oil for a golden crust.
- → What substitutes work well for the Greek yogurt in tzatziki?
Plant-based yogurts such as coconut or almond yogurt can be used to create a dairy-free tzatziki with similar creamy texture and tang.
- → Can the wrap be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, falafel and tzatziki can be made a day ahead and kept chilled. Assemble the wrap shortly before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
- → What are good garnishes to complement the wrap?
Pomegranate seeds, fresh mint, and a sprinkle of crumbled feta add vibrant color and extra layers of flavor to the wrap.
- → How do I shape the wreath wrap?
Arrange the tortillas overlapping in a circular pattern on a board, spread the fillings evenly, then fold and tuck each tortilla to form a continuous wreath. Secure with toothpicks if needed.