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 first discovered the magic of build-your-own boards at a family reunion, watching everyone delight in crafting their own masterpieces and sharing combinations. Now, it's my go-to for casual entertaining, and there's always something for everyone.
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 (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 according to preference (grill, bake, or sauté chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel). Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Prepare Grains & Bases:
- Cook grains as directed and fluff with a fork. Arrange cooked rice, quinoa, and chopped lettuce in separate serving bowls.
- Prepare Fresh 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.
- Setup:
- Set out all components on a large table or counter, grouping by category for easy access.
- Serving:
- Provide serving utensils for each item.
- Building Bowls:
- Invite guests to build their own bowls or plates, starting with a base, adding proteins, vegetables, toppings, and finishing with dressings and herbs.
Pin it One of my favorite moments is watching my kids create their own bowls with total concentration and pride. Their creativity inspires the adults to try unexpected combinations too.
Required Tools
Large serving platters and bowls, serving utensils, small bowls for sauces and toppings, tongs and spoons make setup easy and interactive.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy, eggs, soy, nuts/seeds, gluten (check falafel and sauces), and shellfish (shrimp). Always verify ingredient labels for guest allergies.
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving: 420 calories, 14 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, 22 g protein (for a typical bowl).
Pin it With a little prep, these build-your-own boards turn any get-together into a memorable, delicious celebration. Everyone leaves happy and full.
Common Questions
- → Can I prepare the components ahead of time?
Yes, proteins, grains, and vegetables can be cooked and chopped in advance, then stored chilled until serving.
- → What protein choices work well for variety?
Mix options like grilled chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel for a range of flavors and dietary flexibility.
- → How can guests customize their meal?
Guests choose their base, add proteins, layer fresh veggies, and finish with favorite toppings or dressings for a personalized plate.
- → Are gluten-free and vegan options included?
Yes, use certified gluten-free falafel and plant-based proteins to cater to dietary restrictions. Check all labels for allergens.
- → How should ingredients be presented for easy serving?
Arrange components in separate bowls or platters, grouping by type, and provide utensils for hassle-free assembly.
- → What dressings enhance the flavors?
Lemon-tahini, soy-ginger vinaigrette, and olive oil with balsamic provide a range of bright, complementary tastes.