These fried and crispy Spinach and Chickpea Falafel feature a more Greek-inspired profile with briny feta, spinach, and warm nutmeg. We're completing it all with a sweet yet cool yogurt sauce.

Growing up in NY, whenever I heard the term 'street food' I would think dirty water hot dogs or takeaway pizza. Now if you were to ask me, what comes to mind when I hear that term, I couldn't quite give you a simple answer.

The truth is street food is a universal term. Every culture and country has their own form or variation of such. You can learn a lot about a place and its people by what they have to offer at a vendor. Even here in the states, street food varies state-to-state.

Over the years I've come to appreciate a wide variety of 'street foods', from Liu Sha Bao (egg custard buns) to Aloo Tikki (potato patties). I've learned also that each leaves you feeling a different way. Some street food really feels like an indulgence, while others are hearty and feel homemade, leaving you with that, 'just how grandma used to make it' satisfaction.

We bring these experiences back with us to the kitchen, where we try to evoke those feelings again in order to share them with others.

Falafel has long been a favorite of mine. For me, it's the kind of street food you can enjoy everyday without feeling guilty or getting tired of because of its versatility.

I've made a lot of falafel here on Living the Gourmet over the years, each quite different from the other. Today's is no exception. It's a more Mediterranean interpretation with spinach, feta, and nutmeg. Rather than a traditional tzatziki, I made a different kind of yogurt dip to balance out the saltiness of the dish with a cool, slightly sweet sauce.

The final result is a light warm-weather dish that can be served as an appetizer alongside a cheese board for easy noshing, or a meal if served with a hearty green leaf salad and maybe fresh flatbreads. I even had some leftover the next day for breakfast with a fried egg. Serving suggestions are really limitless here, and I hope you give it a try soon.

More Chickpea Recipes to Love

Mediterranean Falafel- Again, inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, mostly Sicily though, these chickpea falafel are made of basil, capers, and Parmesan.

Chickpea Burgers- One of my favorite meatless meals to date, these chickpea burgers have been a hit with friends and family. They're easy to make and so, so satisfying.

Sundried Tomato Falafel- I've put on full display here how falafel can be served 'food board-style' with herring, warm bread, a fresh sauce, and avocado.

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And that's our Spinach and Chickpea Falafel. If you enjoyed today's recipe, or have any questions or suggestions, be sure to let us know in the comments below. We always love hearing from you.

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