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 tried a build-your-own meal idea for a weekend gathering, and it turned out to be the highlight of the party because everyone got to customize their own dish. There was laughter and conversation as people built their plates and shared flavor combinations.
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 (or vegan alternative): 1 cup
- Sliced olives: 1/2 cup
- Pickled red onions: 1/2 cup
- Toasted nuts or seeds (e.g. almonds, pumpkin seeds): 1/2 cup
- Hummus: 1/2 cup
- Tzatziki: 1/2 cup
- Sriracha mayo or spicy yogurt sauce: 1/2 cup
- Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, mint): 1/4 cup
- 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 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.
- Arrange toppings:
- Assemble toppings and sauces in small bowls.
- Set up spread:
- 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:
- Invite guests to build their own bowls or plates, starting with a base, adding proteins, vegetables, toppings, and finishing with dressings and herbs.
Save My kids love building their own bowls alongside adults, choosing their favorites and trying something new each time. These interactive meals help everyone relax and enjoy being together.
Required Tools
Large serving platters, bowls, small bowls for sauces and toppings, serving utensils, tongs, and spoons make setup seamless for build-your-own boards and bowls.
Allergen Information
Contains: Dairy in feta and tzatziki, eggs in mayonnaise, soy in tofu and edamame, nuts or seeds in toppings, possible gluten in falafel and sauces, and crustacean shellfish in shrimp. Always verify ingredient labels for allergies.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per typical bowl: 420 Calories, 14 g Total Fat, 48 g Carbohydrates, 22 g Protein. Values may vary depending on chosen components.
Save Make your next gathering memorable with interactive plated meals. Everyone is sure to feel included and inspired by the variety and flavors.
Recipe FAQ
- → What proteins can I offer for boards and bowls?
Choices include grilled chicken, marinated tofu, cooked shrimp, and falafel balls. Mix-and-match options cater to varied tastes and diets.
- → How do I set up the serving area?
Arrange ingredients by category in separate bowls or platters. Place grains, proteins, veggies, toppings, and sauces for guest access.
- → What dressings and sauces work best?
Lemon-tahini, olive oil & balsamic, and soy-ginger vinaigrette suit most ingredient combinations. Provide a selection for guest preference.
- → Can these boards and bowls accommodate special diets?
Yes, options are available for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Substitute proteins or toppings as needed and verify all labels.
- → How can I add more variety?
Include additional roasted vegetables, cheeses, global sauces (like salsa or chimichurri), and alternative grains to enhance flavor profiles.
- → What wine pairs well with this spread?
Crisp Sauvignon Blanc and light-bodied Pinot Noir complement the fresh, vibrant ingredient choices presented in boards and bowls.