Save 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 festive wrap has become a holiday favorite at my family gatherings. Everyone loves the combination of textures and flavors while enjoying a vegetarian option that looks beautiful on 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.
Save My family especially enjoys gathering around this colorful wreath during the holidays, sharing stories and laughter as we feast on these flavorful wraps.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the wreath with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lime for a refreshing complement.
Storage Tips
Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep tzatziki separate and add just before serving.
Variations
Add roasted red peppers cucumber ribbons or pickled turnips inside the wrap for extra color and flavor.
Save This festive wrap is sure to impress your guests and bring joy to your holiday table. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation!
Recipe Guide
- → How do I make falafel crisp without frying?
Bake the shaped falafel balls at 400°F, brushing lightly with olive oil, and turn halfway through cooking for an evenly crisp texture.
- → What can I use instead of Greek yogurt in tzatziki?
A plant-based yogurt works well for a dairy-free version, providing a similar creamy and tangy base.
- → How do I keep the wrap fresh before serving?
Wrap the assembled wreath with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve to preserve freshness and flavors.
- → Can I prepare components in advance?
Yes, the falafel mixture and tzatziki can be made ahead; assemble the wrap just prior to serving for best texture.
- → What garnishes enhance the wrap’s flavor?
Pomegranate seeds and fresh mint leaves add bursts of sweetness and aroma, balancing the savory falafel and creamy sauce.