Pin A vibrant spread of customizable boards & bowls perfect for social gatherings. Guests mix & match fresh ingredients to create their own personalized meals that are fun, engaging & sure to please every palate.
I first prepared these build-your-own boards for a family party. Watching everyone craft their own combinations & share flavor ideas quickly became the highlight of the evening.
Ingredients
- Grilled chicken breast: Sliced, 400 g
- Marinated tofu: Grilled or baked, cubed, 400 g
- Cooked shrimp: Peeled & deveined, 400 g
- Falafel balls: Store-bought or homemade, 350 g
- Jasmine rice: Cooked, 4 cups
- Quinoa: Cooked, 4 cups
- Romaine lettuce: Chopped, 2 large heads
- Cherry tomatoes: Halved, 2 cups
- Cucumber: Sliced, 1
- Red bell pepper: Sliced, 1
- 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: Almonds, pumpkin seeds, etc., 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:
- Cook chicken, tofu, shrimp & falafel per preference. Grill, bake or sauté as needed. Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Prepare Bases:
- Cook rice & quinoa as directed. Fluff with a fork & place cooked grains & chopped lettuce in separate serving bowls.
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Wash & chop all vegetables. Arrange in bowls or on a platter.
- Set Up Toppings & Sauces:
- Place all toppings, cheeses, sauces & herbs in small bowls for serving.
- Arrange Serving Area:
- Group all components by category on a large table or counter for easy access.
- Serving Prep:
- Provide serving utensils for each item.
- Host & Enjoy:
- Invite guests to build their own bowls or plates starting with a base, adding proteins, vegetables, toppings & dressings.
Pin The kids love making rainbow bowls & choosing their favorite sauces. It always sparks laughter & conversation around the table.
Required Tools
Have plenty of large platters, bowls, tongs & serving spoons for easy self-serve access. Small bowls for sauces & toppings are handy for customizing every bite.
Allergen Information
This spread may include dairy, eggs, soy, nuts or gluten. Always check ingredient labels & notify guests with allergies before serving.
Nutritional Information
Typical bowl: 420 calories, 14 g fat, 48 g carbohydrates, 22 g protein. Actual nutrition will vary based on chosen ingredients & portion.
Pin Set out the board & watch your guests mingle as they create bowls & plates to their taste. Practical, fun & always memorable!
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I ensure options for different dietary restrictions?
Offer a variety of proteins, plant-based choices, and gluten-free items. Prepare vegan and dairy-free alternatives for flexibility.
- → What are some recommended base options?
Include cooked jasmine rice, quinoa, and chopped romaine lettuce to start each bowl or plate.
- → Can I prepare ingredients ahead of time?
Absolutely! Proteins, grains, and roasted vegetables can be cooked in advance. Store separately until serving.
- → Which sauces and dressings work best?
Offer lemon-tahini, olive oil & balsamic, and soy-ginger vinaigrette for flavorful finishing touches.
- → How should components be presented?
Arrange items in separate bowls or on platters grouped by category. Provide utensils for easy serving.
- → What wine pairs well with this spread?
Choose a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Noir to complement the diverse flavors and fresh ingredients.