Save A vibrant spread of customizable boards and bowls, perfect for social gatherings. Guests mix and match fresh ingredients to create their own personalized meals—fun, engaging, and sure to please every palate.
I first created build-your-own boards and bowls for a summer party, and everyone raved about how fun it was to assemble their meal. This style lets guests be creative, whether piling on grilled chicken and sweet potatoes or going all-in with vegan options and spicy sauces.
Ingredients
- Grilled chicken breast: 400 g, sliced
- Marinated tofu: 400 g, grilled or baked, cubed
- Cooked shrimp: 400 g, peeled and deveined
- Falafel balls: 350 g, store-bought or homemade
- Cooked jasmine rice: 4 cups
- Cooked quinoa: 4 cups
- Romaine lettuce: 2 large heads, chopped
- Cherry tomatoes: 2 cups, halved
- Cucumber: 1, sliced
- Red bell pepper: 1, sliced
- Shredded carrots: 1 cup
- Cooked edamame: 1 cup
- Roasted sweet potato cubes: 1 cup
- Crumbled feta cheese: 1 cup (or vegan alternative)
- Sliced olives: 1/2 cup
- Pickled red onions: 1/2 cup
- Toasted nuts or seeds: 1/2 cup (almonds, pumpkin seeds)
- Hummus: 1/2 cup
- Tzatziki: 1/2 cup
- Sriracha mayo or spicy yogurt sauce: 1/2 cup
- Chopped fresh herbs: 1/4 cup (parsley, cilantro, mint)
- Lemon-tahini dressing: as needed
- Olive oil & balsamic vinegar: as needed
- Soy-ginger vinaigrette: as needed
Instructions
- Prepare Proteins:
- Prepare all protein options according to preference (grill, bake, or sauté chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel). Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Cook Grains & Bases:
- Cook grains as directed and fluff with a fork. Arrange cooked rice, quinoa, and chopped lettuce in separate serving bowls.
- Prep Vegetables:
- Wash and chop fresh vegetables. Arrange in individual bowls or on a large platter.
- Assemble Toppings & Sauces:
- Assemble toppings and sauces in small bowls.
- Set Up Serving Area:
- Set out all components on a large table or counter, grouping by category for easy access.
- Provide Utensils:
- Provide serving utensils for each item.
- Invite Guests to Build:
- Invite guests to build their own bowls or plates, starting with a base, adding proteins, vegetables, toppings, and finishing with dressings and herbs.
Save Sharing this board at our family gatherings sparks lots of laughter and conversation. Kids love piling their bowls high, and adults swap tips for their favorite combos.
Required Tools
Use large serving platters and bowls, serving utensils, plus small bowls for sauces and toppings. Tongs and spoons make self-serving a breeze.
Allergen Information
Dairy (feta, tzatziki), eggs (mayonnaise), soy (tofu, edamame, soy sauce), nuts/seeds may be present. Gluten can be in falafel or dressings—check labels and cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per typical bowl: Calories 420, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 48 g, Protein 22 g.
Save With this interactive meal, everyone leaves the table satisfied and inspired. Mix and match to suit any craving or season.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I offer vegan or gluten-free options?
Omit animal proteins and dairy; swap in plant-based proteins and ensure sauces and falafel are certified gluten-free.
- → What are some suggested bases besides rice and quinoa?
Use chopped romaine, mixed greens, cauliflower rice, or bulgur for extra variety and texture in every bowl or plate.
- → Can I prepare proteins in advance?
Yes. Grill, bake, or sauté proteins a day ahead, store chilled, and reheat gently before serving to save time.
- → Which dressings pair well with this spread?
Lemon-tahini, olive oil balsamic, and soy-ginger vinaigrette all complement the fresh ingredients beautifully.
- → What drinks pair well with these customizable meals?
Choose crisp Sauvignon Blanc for white wine, or a light Pinot Noir for reds; sparkling water and iced tea also work well.
- → How do I keep ingredients fresh during service?
Chill perishable proteins and toppings until serving; set out just before guests arrive to retain freshness and color.