If you're looking for healthy recipes for schoolchildren, one of those I recommend is falafel. These are Middle Eastern/Mediterranean chick pea patties. Falafel are also a vegetarian favourite.

High in protein and very flavourful, falafel are traditionally eaten with pita bread, a spicy sauce and with a vegetable side dish. They can however be a burger substitute on a regular burger bun.

Below is a recipe I often use. Now and then, I incorporate chopped nuts and/or olives into the mixture.

Falafel
250 g. (50 oz.) dried chick peas, soaked overnight
5 small spring onions, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
5 tbsp. water
4 large parsley sprigs
1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. ground coriander
salt and pepper
oil for deep-frying

Drain the chick peas. Puree them in the food processor with the spring onions, garlic, water and parsley. Blend the spices and transfer to a bowl. Let it stand for an hour or two to dry out a bit.

With the help of a rounded tablespoon, form the mixture into large marbles then flatten slightly. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or pan. Drop the falafel and cook for approximately five minutes or till golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Best served with chilli sauce, piquante sauce, eggplant salad and fresh greens.

Recipe serves 6-8.