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 started creating build‑your‑own boards for family gatherings, and they quickly became everyone's favorite way to eat together. Watching guests assemble colorful plates always makes meals feel festive and interactive.
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, e.g. almonds or pumpkin seeds
- Hummus: 1/2 cup
- Tzatziki: 1/2 cup
- Sriracha mayo or spicy yogurt sauce: 1/2 cup
- Fresh herbs: 1/4 cup, chopped 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 as preferred (grill, bake, or sauté). Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Arrange Bases:
- Cook jasmine rice and quinoa as directed. Fluff grains and place rice, quinoa, and chopped lettuce in separate serving bowls.
- Prep Vegetables:
- Wash and chop all fresh vegetables. Arrange in individual bowls or on a large platter.
- Organize Toppings & Sauces:
- Place cheeses, olives, pickled onions, nuts, hummus, tzatziki, sauces, and herbs in small bowls.
- Set Up Serving Area:
- Group all meal components by category on a large table or counter for easy access.
- Provide Utensils:
- Offer serving utensils for each bowl and dish for comfortable assembly.
- Invite Guests:
- Guests build their bowls or plates, starting with a base, followed by proteins, vegetables, toppings, and dressing with fresh herbs.
Save Setting up these boards for family celebrations brings everyone together around the table. Kids especially love choosing their favorite toppings, and adults appreciate the flexibility for taste and nutrition.
Required Tools
Large serving platters and bowls, tongs, spoons, and small bowls for sauces and toppings help make serving smooth and inviting.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (feta, tzatziki), eggs (mayonnaise), soy (tofu, edamame, soy sauce), nuts/seeds (toppings), and possible gluten in falafel/dressings. Always check product labels and prepare alternatives for sensitive guests.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving: 420 calories, 14 g fat, 48 g carbohydrates, 22 g protein, depending on ingredient choices and portions.
Save Customize endlessly to delight every guest, and let each person build their own perfect plate. This interactive meal approach guarantees happy gatherings and satisfied appetites.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I keep ingredients fresh during serving?
Use chilled bowls for veggies, keep proteins warm, and set dressings out just before serving.
- → Can I prepare platter items in advance?
Yes, you can grill or bake proteins, chop veggies, and prep toppings hours ahead. Assemble just before guests arrive.
- → What bases work well for build-your-own boards?
Jasmine rice, quinoa, or fresh chopped lettuce are versatile options to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
- → What sauces enhance customizable bowls?
Lemon-tahini, olive oil and balsamic, and soy-ginger vinaigrette add flavor and complement the fresh ingredients.
- → How can I accommodate special diets?
Offer plant-based proteins, gluten-free falafel, and dairy-free dips. Clearly label all components to help guests choose safely.
- → Any suggested wine pairings?
Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light-bodied Pinot Noir complement the diverse flavors nicely.