Save A vibrant spread of customizable boards and bowls creates the perfect atmosphere for social gatherings. Guests mix and match fresh ingredients to create personalized meals that are engaging and sure to please every palate.
The first time I set up a build‑your‑own board for friends, it became the highlight of the evening. Everyone loved exploring flavors and assembling their own bowl just the way they liked.
Ingredients
- Proteins: 400 g grilled chicken breast, sliced; 400 g marinated tofu, grilled or baked, cubed; 400 g cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined; 350 g falafel balls (store-bought or homemade)
- Grains & Bases: 4 cups cooked jasmine rice; 4 cups cooked quinoa; 2 large heads romaine lettuce, chopped
- Fresh Vegetables: 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup cooked edamame; 1 cup roasted sweet potato cubes
- Toppings & Extras: 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (or vegan alternative); 1/2 cup sliced olives; 1/2 cup pickled red onions; 1/2 cup toasted nuts or seeds (e.g. almonds, pumpkin seeds); 1/2 cup hummus; 1/2 cup tzatziki; 1/2 cup sriracha mayo or spicy yogurt sauce; 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, mint)
- Dressings & Sauces: Lemon-tahini dressing; Olive oil & balsamic vinegar; Soy-ginger vinaigrette
Instructions
- Prepare Proteins:
- Prepare all protein options according to preference (grill, bake, or sauté chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel). Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Cook Grains & Bases:
- Cook grains as directed and fluff with a fork. Arrange cooked rice, quinoa, and chopped lettuce in separate serving bowls.
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Wash and chop fresh vegetables. Arrange in individual bowls or on a large platter.
- Arrange Toppings & Sauces:
- Assemble toppings and sauces in small bowls.
- Set Up Spread:
- Set out all components on a large table or counter, grouping by category for easy access.
- Serve:
- Provide serving utensils for each item.
- Invite Guests:
- Invite guests to build their own bowls or plates, starting with a base, adding proteins, vegetables, toppings, and finishing with dressings and herbs.
Save This spread is always a hit at family gatherings, especially with kids who love choosing their favorites and assembling their own bowls.
Required Tools
Large serving platters, bowls, small bowls for sauces and toppings, tongs, and spoons are all you need for easy serving and sharing.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy, eggs, soy, nuts/seeds, gluten (in some falafel, sauces, and dressings), and crustacean shellfish. Always verify ingredient labels for allergies.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving for a typical bowl: 420 calories, 14 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, 22 g protein.
Save Enjoy a lively, interactive meal where everyone gets exactly what they want. It’s a surefire way to create conversation and connection at the table.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep ingredients fresh throughout the meal?
Use chilled bowls for vegetables and room temperature for proteins. Cover until serving for optimal freshness.
- → What are some vegan protein alternatives?
Try chickpeas, tempeh, marinated tofu, or extra falafel for hearty plant-based options.
- → Can the bowls be made gluten-free?
Select certified gluten-free grains and sauces. Check falafel and other products for gluten content.
- → How should I serve the sauces and dressings?
Arrange them in small bowls with spoons or ladles so guests can select their favorites easily.
- → What wine pairs well with these dishes?
Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complement the assorted flavors beautifully.
- → How do I organize the serving area for easy assembly?
Group ingredients by category—proteins, bases, vegetables, toppings, sauces—on platters and bowls for smooth flow.