This falafel and cottage cheese bowl is a refreshing and nourishing dish that comes together in minutes.
It’s loaded with Mediterranean flavors—crispy falafel, cool cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy tzatziki—all layered over crisp greens with a dollop of protein-rich cottage cheese.
It’s the kind of lunch that feels satisfying but not heavy, and every bite is full of color, texture, and flavor.
Whether you’re vegetarian or just love a good bowl, this one’s a keeper.
Why I Love This Recipe
It’s quick to assemble but tastes fresh and vibrant.
The falafel gives you a hearty bite without needing meat.
Tzatziki and cottage cheese keep it creamy without heaviness.
Perfect for meal prep or a fuss-free lunch.
Naturally vegetarian and easy to customize.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Falafel: Use homemade or store-bought, baked or fried—whatever suits your time.
Cottage Cheese: Adds creaminess and a punch of protein.
Cucumber & Cherry Tomatoes: Bring crunch and brightness.
Red Onion: A little sharpness to balance the creaminess.
Mixed Greens: Acts as a fresh and crisp base.
Tzatziki Sauce: Ties all the Mediterranean flavors together with cool tang.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Warm the falafel slightly before assembling for better texture.
Use Persian cucumbers or English cucumbers to avoid excess seeds.
Pat veggies dry if prepping ahead to avoid sogginess.
Add pita chips or warm naan on the side for a heartier meal.
A squeeze of lemon on top before serving adds freshness.
How to Make a Falafel and Cottage Cheese Bowl
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Warm the falafel if desired. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
Have your tzatziki and cottage cheese ready to go.
Step 2: Layer the Bowl
Start with a base of mixed greens in your bowl.
Spoon the cottage cheese into the center.
Add falafel, cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions neatly around or over the top.
Step 3: Add the Finishing Touch
Top with a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce.
Gently toss if desired or leave it layered for a pretty presentation.
Serve immediately while fresh.
What to Serve It With
Warm pita bread or pita chips.
A side of hummus or baba ganoush.
Lentil soup or tomato soup for a cozy combo.
Fresh fruit or lemon water to round out the meal.
Variations / Substitutions
Use hummus or tahini sauce instead of tzatziki.
Swap quinoa or couscous for the greens if you prefer grains.
Add olives or roasted red peppers for extra punch.
Try goat cheese or feta if you’re not into cottage cheese.
Make it vegan with plant-based falafel and dairy-free yogurt sauce.
Storage & Leftovers
Store each component separately for the best texture.
Falafel can be refrigerated for up to 4 days—reheat before serving.
Cottage cheese and tzatziki last 3–4 days in airtight containers.
Assemble the bowl right before eating to keep greens crisp.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought falafel?
Absolutely! It’s a great time-saver and still delicious.
Is cottage cheese traditional in Mediterranean bowls?
Not traditionally, but it adds a modern, protein-rich twist.
How do I make it vegan?
Use plant-based falafel and a dairy-free yogurt for the tzatziki.
Can I prep this ahead for lunch?
Yes—store the components separately and assemble right before eating.
What can I use instead of tzatziki?
Try hummus, tahini sauce, or a lemon herb vinaigrette.
Does this work as a full meal?
Yes—it has protein, fiber, healthy fats, and fresh veggies.
Can I turn it into a wrap?
Definitely! Just stuff the ingredients into a warm pita or wrap.
Final Thoughts
This falafel and cottage cheese bowl is one of those recipes I keep coming back to.
It’s simple, customizable, and incredibly satisfying.
I love how the creamy textures balance with the crunchy veggies and crispy falafel.
Falafel – Cottage Cheese Bowl
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, layer mixed greens, cottage cheese, falafel, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Top with a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
- Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/falafel-cottage-cheese-bowl/
Notes
- Warm the falafel before adding if you prefer a hot-and-cold contrast.
- Add olives, roasted red peppers, or quinoa for extra flavor and heartiness.
- Works great as a meal prep bowl—just keep the tzatziki separate until ready to serve.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.