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, fun, engaging, and sure to please every palate.
I first discovered build-your-own meal boards at a family potluck, and they quickly became my go-to for entertaining. Everyone enjoys getting creative with their plates, and it always sparks great conversation.
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 (e.g., almonds, pumpkin seeds): 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 desired
- Olive oil & balsamic vinegar: as desired
- Soy-ginger vinaigrette: as desired
Instructions
- Prepare proteins:
- Prepare all protein options as preferred: grill, bake, or sauté chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel. Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Cook grains & bases:
- Cook jasmine rice and quinoa as directed, then fluff with a fork. Arrange the cooked rice, quinoa, and chopped lettuce in separate serving bowls.
- Prepare vegetables:
- Wash and chop all fresh vegetables. Arrange individually in bowls or on a large platter.
- Assemble toppings & sauces:
- Arrange all toppings and sauces in small bowls or containers.
- Set up serving area:
- Place all prepared ingredients on a large table or counter, grouped by category for easy access.
- Provide utensils:
- Ensure serving utensils are available for each item.
- Invite guests:
- Encourage guests to build their own bowls or plates, starting with a base, then adding proteins, vegetables, toppings, dressings, and fresh herbs.
Save This board always brings my family together, with everyone laughing and sharing ideas as they build wild combinations. Watching kids pile on favorites is a highlight for me.
Required Tools
Large serving platters and bowls, tongs, serving utensils, and assorted small bowls for sauces and toppings are essential for a seamless setup.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy, eggs, soy, nuts/seeds, gluten, and shellfish. Always check labels for cross-contamination and verify ingredients with guests.
Nutritional Information
Each typical bowl provides approximately 420 calories, 14 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, and 22 g protein.
Save Set everything out with care and watch your guests light up as they create their own masterpiece. It makes every meal memorable and delicious.
Recipe FAQ
- → How should proteins be prepared?
Grill, bake, or sauté chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel as preferred for optimal texture and flavor.
- → Can I keep ingredients warm for serving?
Keep proteins warm or at room temperature. Grains and vegetables are suitable for serving cooled or freshly cooked.
- → What options suit vegetarian or vegan guests?
Offer tofu, falafel, or extra veggies. Use vegan cheese and dairy-free sauces to accommodate all preferences.
- → Are there gluten-free choices?
Use certified gluten-free falafel and sauces. Double check ingredient labels to avoid cross-contamination.
- → How do guests assemble their meals?
Provide bowls and utensils. Start with a grain or lettuce base, add proteins, then pile on veggies, toppings, and sauces.
- → What are good wine pairings?
Serve chilled Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Noir to complement the fresh, diverse flavors.