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, making it a fun, engaging option sure to please every palate.
I enjoy setting up these build-your-own boards and bowls at gatherings because everyone gets creative and no one feels left out, regardless of their dietary needs.
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 (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: to serve
- Olive oil & balsamic vinegar: to serve
- Soy-ginger vinaigrette: to serve
Instructions
- Prepare proteins:
- Cook chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel to preference (grill, bake, or sauté). Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Prepare grains and bases:
- Cook jasmine rice and quinoa as directed. Fluff with a fork, and arrange rice, quinoa, and chopped lettuce in serving bowls.
- Prepare vegetables:
- Wash and chop tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, carrots, edamame, and sweet potato. Arrange individually in bowls or on a platter.
- Arrange toppings & sauces:
- Place cheeses, olives, pickled onions, nuts, hummus, tzatziki, sauces, and herbs in small bowls.
- Set up for serving:
- Group all components by category on a large table or counter for easy access.
- Provide utensils:
- Place serving utensils with each item.
- Invite guests:
- Guide guests to build bowls or plates by choosing a base, adding proteins, vegetables, toppings, and finishing with dressings and herbs.
Save My family loves gathering around the table, making bowls together and discovering new flavor combinations—it has become our favorite way to celebrate weekend dinners.
Serving & Entertaining Tips
For an extra festive setup, use varied platter shapes and arrange ingredients by color for visual appeal. Include extra herbs and global sauces for added variety.
Allergen Information
This spread may contain dairy, eggs, soy, nuts, gluten, and shellfish. Always verify labels and communicate openly with guests about allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each bowl is estimated at 420 calories, with 14 g fat, 48 g carbohydrates, and 22 g protein—nutritional values will vary based on selections and portion sizes.
Save This interactive meal is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Just prep, plate, and enjoy the creativity your guests bring to the table!
Cooking Guide
- → How can I keep ingredients fresh for serving?
Prepare ingredients just before serving and store them covered in the fridge until ready. Use chilled platters for vegetables to maintain freshness.
- → What bases work best for build-your-own bowls?
Cooked grains like rice and quinoa, along with chopped romaine lettuce, provide versatile, filling bases for layering proteins and vegetables.
- → Can I offer vegan and gluten-free options?
Absolutely! Choose plant proteins like tofu or chickpeas, and confirm all grains, falafel, and sauces are certified gluten-free for dietary needs.
- → What sauces are recommended for variety?
Serve lemon-tahini, olive oil & balsamic vinegar, soy-ginger vinaigrette, salsa, chimichurri, or peanut sauce for diverse, bold flavor choices.
- → What tools help with serving?
Use large platters or bowls organized by category, plus tongs, spoons, and small bowls for sauces and toppings to streamline self-service.
- → How do I cater to allergies?
Label ingredients clearly, provide separate bowls for potential allergens, and read product labels to ensure safety and accommodate guest needs.