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 this build-your-own board idea at a summer party. It became an instant favorite, as guests loved mixing flavors and every plate was unique.
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
- Jasmine rice: 4 cups, cooked
- Quinoa: 4 cups, cooked
- Romaine lettuce: 2 large heads, chopped
- Cherry tomatoes: 2 cups, halved
- Cucumber: 1, sliced
- Red bell pepper: 1, sliced
- Shredded carrots: 1 cup
- Edamame: 1 cup, cooked
- 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 (e.g., 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:
- 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 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:
- Invite guests to build their own bowls or plates, starting with a base, adding proteins, vegetables, toppings, and finishing with dressings and herbs.
Save When our family hosted a reunion, our youngest loved picking out their own bowl — discovering new veggies and sauces became part of the fun for everyone.
Required Tools
Large serving platters and bowls, serving utensils, small bowls for sauces and toppings, tongs, and spoons make prep and serving a breeze.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy, eggs, soy, nuts/seeds, gluten (in some items), and shellfish. Always verify ingredient labels with guests and offer swaps as needed.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per typical bowl: 420 calories, 14g total fat, 48g carbs, 22g protein. Actual values will vary.
Save Let each guest explore and create the bowl or board that suits their tastes. Sharing this type of interactive meal always sparks great conversation.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep ingredients fresh for a build-your-own meal?
Use chilled serving platters and keep cold ingredients refrigerated until ready. Serve warm proteins last to maintain temperature.
- → What are good vegan protein options for this meal?
Try grilled tofu, falafel, chickpeas, or tempeh for satisfying vegan choices that pair well with grains and veggies.
- → How can I ensure it's gluten-free for guests?
Select certified gluten-free falafel and check all sauces and toppings for gluten-containing ingredients or cross-contamination.
- → Which dressings pair best with these bowls?
Lemon-tahini, soy-ginger vinaigrette, and olive oil-balsamic are crowd-pleasers that complement grains, proteins, and vegetables.
- → Can I prepare components ahead of time?
Yes. Grill proteins, cook grains, and chop vegetables a day ahead. Store separately and assemble right before serving.
- → What wine works well with this interactive meal?
Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Noir enhance the vibrant flavors, pairing well with various proteins and veggies.