Beetroot Falafel (Italian-Inspired Baked Version)

Falafel, a classic dish from Middle Eastern culinary tradition, gets a vibrant Italian twist in this colorful baked version perfect for modern diets. These Beetroot Chickpea Falafel make an excellent appetizer, main dish served with flatbread and vegetables, or plant-based burger patty for sandwiches. Using simple ingredients like chickpeas, roasted beets, chickpea flour and lemon zest, this recipe enhances traditional spice blends with Mediterranean freshness. Unlike classic fried versions, these oven-baked falafel achieve perfect crispness through roasting rather than deep-frying – making them lighter while maintaining authentic texture. The striking magenta hue from beetroots creates visually stunning vegetarian bites rich in fiber, plant proteins and nutrients. Serve them as party finger food, meal prep protein source, or creative sandwich filling. While maintaining falafel’s essential character through garlic and cumin seasoning, this Italian adaptation showcases how global cuisine evolves through local ingredient innovation.