Pin this 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 concept for a weekend gathering with friends. Everyone enjoyed customizing their plates, and it was a hit for both adults and kids.
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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
- 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
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Instructions
- Prepare proteins:
- Grill, bake, or sauté chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel. Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Cook grains and bases:
- Prepare rice and quinoa as directed. Fluff with a fork. Arrange rice, quinoa, and chopped romaine lettuce in separate serving bowls.
- Prepare vegetables:
- Wash and chop all fresh vegetables. Arrange in individual bowls or on a large platter.
- Set up toppings and sauces:
- Place all toppings and sauces in small bowls.
- Assemble serving area:
- Set out all components on a large table or counter, grouped by category for easy access.
- Provide utensils:
- Place serving utensils for each item.
- Invite guests to build:
- Guests create their own bowls or plates, starting with a base, adding proteins, vegetables, toppings, dressings, and fresh herbs.
Pin this My family loves gathering around the table and creating their own dinner bowls (everyone gets exactly what they want, and it brings joy and creativity to the meal).
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Required Tools
Large serving platters and bowls, serving utensils, small bowls for sauces and toppings, tongs, and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (feta, tzatziki), eggs (mayonnaise), soy (tofu, edamame, soy sauce), nuts and seeds (toppings). Gluten may be present in falafel, sauces, and dressings: check all ingredient labels to verify safety. Crustacean shellfish (shrimp) is included.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving (typical bowl): Calories 420, Total Fat 14 g, Carbohydrates 48 g, Protein 22 g.
Pin this 
This recipe transforms dinner into a fun and memorable experience (everyone leaves happy and satisfied).
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep ingredients fresh during serving?
Prep proteins and veggies just before guests arrive. Use chilled bowls for cold foods and cover platters lightly to prevent drying.
- → What bases work best for bowls?
Cooked jasmine rice, quinoa, or chopped romaine lettuce are great options. Choose based on guest preferences or dietary needs.
- → How can this meal suit various diets?
Offer plant-based proteins like tofu and falafel, dairy alternatives, and gluten-free grains. Clearly label allergens for guest safety.
- → Can I prepare components ahead of time?
Yes. Grill proteins, cook grains, and prepare most toppings in advance. Store separately and assemble just prior to serving.
- → What dressings and sauces pair well?
Lemon-tahini, olive oil with balsamic, and soy-ginger vinaigrette complement most boards. Offer a variety for guests to choose.
- → Any wine pairing suggestions?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light-bodied Pinot Noir matches the broad flavors and enhances the dining experience.
