Pin it 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 love hosting build-your-own meal nights because everyone gets exactly what they want, and there's never any worry about picky eaters or dietary restrictions.
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 (or vegan alternative): 1 cup
- 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:
- Cook all protein options as desired. Grill, bake, or sauté the chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel. Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Cook bases:
- Cook jasmine rice and quinoa as directed. Fluff and arrange each base with chopped lettuce in separate serving bowls.
- Prep vegetables:
- Wash and chop all fresh vegetables. Arrange in individual bowls or on a large platter.
- Arrange toppings:
- Place all toppings and sauces in small bowls.
- Set up board:
- Set out all components on a large table or counter, grouping by category for easy access.
- Provide serving utensils:
- Place tongs and spoons for every item.
- Invite guests:
- Let guests build their own bowls or plates, starting with a base, then adding proteins, vegetables, toppings, and finishing with dressings and herbs.
Pin it Sharing these boards has become a tradition at our family gatherings, sparking laughter as everyone crafts their perfect combination and discovers new favorites.
Required Tools
You'll need large serving platters and bowls, plenty of tongs and spoons, plus small bowls for all sauces and toppings.
Allergen Information
Contains: Dairy, eggs, soy, nuts/seeds, and crustacean shellfish. Gluten may be present in falafel or sauces. Always verify ingredient labels for guests.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving: 420 calories, 14 g fat, 48 g carbohydrates, 22 g protein. Exact values depend on the bowl selections.
Pin it Enjoy your platter as an unforgettable centerpiece for social feasting, letting every guest find something delicious on their own terms.
Recipe FAQs
- → What proteins can I offer for build‑your‑own boards and bowls?
Include grilled chicken, marinated tofu, shrimp, or falafel balls. Mix and match for different dietary needs.
- → How should I arrange the ingredients for serving?
Group proteins, grains, veggies, toppings, and sauces in separate bowls and platters for easy access.
- → Are there vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, use tofu, falafel, and plant-based toppings. Omit animal-based ingredients for a fully vegan spread.
- → How can I accommodate gluten-free guests?
Choose certified gluten-free falafel and sauces, and ensure all grain and dressing options are safe.
- → What wine pairs well with these meals?
Serve a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Noir to complement the vibrant flavors.
- → Can I prep ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, prepare proteins, cook grains, and chop veggies in advance for easy assembly at mealtime.