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, making it fun, engaging, and sure to please every palate.
I first tried build-your-own boards at a garden party with friends. It was so easy to set out all the components and let everyone create their own meal, and the feedback was fantastic. This method quickly became my go-to for stress-free entertaining.
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:
- Cook chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel using preferred methods. Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Cook Grains & Bases:
- Prepare jasmine rice and quinoa according to package instructions, then fluff with a fork. Chop romaine lettuce and arrange all bases in bowls.
- Prep Vegetables:
- Wash and chop all vegetables. Place each in individual serving bowls or arrange on a large platter.
- Assemble Toppings:
- Set up toppings and sauces in small separate bowls.
- Set the Table:
- Organize all meal components on a large table or counter, grouping by category for easy reach.
- Serving Utensils:
- Provide suitable serving utensils for each item, such as tongs and spoons.
- Let Guests Build:
- Invite everyone to create their own boards or bowls by layering a base, then adding proteins, vegetables, toppings, and sauces finished with fresh herbs.
Save This sharing-style meal is always a hit at family celebrations. Watching everyone enjoy the freedom to craft their favorite combinations brings us all together around the table.
Required Tools
Use large serving platters and bowls for group ingredients, plus ample small bowls for sauces and toppings. Tongs and sturdy serving spoons make assembling easy for everyone.
Allergen Information
This meal may contain dairy, eggs, soy, nuts, seeds, gluten, and shellfish depending on the chosen items. Always separately label allergens and verify ingredients for safety.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving: 420 calories, 14 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, 22 g protein (varies with selections).
Save Try pairing this interactive meal with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Noir for a complete experience. Your guests will love the variety and ease!
Kitchen Guide
- → What proteins can guests choose from?
Offer options such as grilled chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel to satisfy diverse tastes and diets.
- → How should grains and bases be prepared?
Cook and fluff rice and quinoa, and chop lettuce for use as a base in serving bowls for easy assembly.
- → What toppings work well for customization?
Include colorful extras like feta cheese, olives, herbs, pickled onions, hummus, and a variety of seeds and nuts.
- → Are there options for special diets?
Yes, offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free ingredients like plant proteins and certified sauces for inclusive dining.
- → How can I organize the serving setup?
Arrange all components into grouped bowls or platters with utensils, letting guests build their own plates or bowls.
- → Which sauces pair best with bowls?
Provide dressings such as lemon-tahini, balsamic vinaigrette, and soy-ginger, plus spicy yogurt or sriracha mayo for flavor.