Crispy Cauliflower Fritters with Lemon Tahini Sauce

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bold Mediterranean flavors, these Cauliflower Fritters with Lemon Tahini Sauce are a delicious and healthy twist on a classic dish. Made with simple ingredients like cauliflower, chickpea flour, fresh herbs, and warm spices, these fritters are naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan.

The creamy Lemon Tahini Sauce adds a bright, nutty, and tangy finish, making these fritters perfect as an appetizer, snack, or a light meal. Serve them with a fresh salad, pita bread, or alongside hummus for a truly Mediterranean-inspired feast!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Fritters:

1 small head cauliflower (about 3 cups, riced or finely chopped)

½ cup chickpea flour (or all-purpose flour)

¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko or gluten-free if needed)

2 eggs, lightly beaten

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ tsp ground cumin

½ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

Olive oil, for frying

For the Lemon Tahini Sauce:

¼ cup tahini

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 garlic clove, minced

2 tbsp water (or more for desired consistency)

½ tsp salt

½ tsp cumin

Instructions

Prepare the Cauliflower

Steam or boil cauliflower until fork-tender (about 5 minutes). Drain well and mash or process into small pieces.

Mix the Batter

In a bowl, combine mashed cauliflower, chickpea flour, breadcrumbs, eggs, parsley, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Mix well until a thick batter forms. If too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

Cook the Fritters

Heat 2-3 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Scoop small portions (about 2 tbsp each) and flatten into patties.

Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Make the Tahini Sauce

Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water, cumin, and salt until smooth. Add more water if needed.

Serve & Enjoy

Drizzle or dip fritters in the lemon tahini sauce.

Garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of sumac or sesame seeds.

Mediterranean Twists & Tips

Make it vegan – Swap eggs for flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).

Add more Mediterranean flavors – Mix in feta cheese or finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes.

Serve it traditionally – Pair with a Greek salad, hummus, or pita bread.

Nutritional Info (Per 3 Fritters, Approximate)

Calories: ~230 kcal

Protein: ~8g

Carbs: ~20g

Fats: ~12g

Fiber: ~4g