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 the magic of build-your-own boards at a summer party. Everyone loved picking their favorites and making vibrant combinations, making the meal both memorable and effortless for the host.
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: as needed
- Olive oil & balsamic vinegar: as needed
- Soy-ginger vinaigrette: as needed
Instructions
- Prepare proteins:
- Grill, bake, or sauté chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel based on preference. Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Cook grains:
- Follow package directions for rice and quinoa. Fluff with a fork, arrange rice, quinoa, and lettuce in separate bowls.
- Prepare vegetables:
- Wash, chop, and arrange all fresh vegetables in individual bowls or on a large platter.
- Set up toppings:
- Arrange all toppings and sauces in small bowls.
- Organize the spread:
- Group prepared components by category on a large table or counter for easy access.
- Prepare utensils:
- Set out serving utensils and spoons for each item.
- Invite guests:
- Let guests build their bowls or plates starting with grains or greens, then add proteins, vegetables, toppings, and finish with dressings and herbs.
Save Kids love grabbing their favorite toppings, and it makes dinners with family fun and stress-free. Each gathering becomes a colorful feast with everyone involved: it is a tradition we look forward to.
Required Tools
Gather large serving platters, bowls, tongs, spoons, and plenty of small bowls for sauces and toppings to ensure a smooth experience for everyone.
Allergen Information
This recipe can include dairy, eggs, soy, nuts, gluten, and shellfish: always check ingredient labels and customize the spread for dietary needs.
Nutritional Information
Each serving typically provides 420 calories, 14 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, and 22 g protein, depending on bowl composition.
Save Celebrate both food and togetherness as guests enjoy creating unique plates. This interactive style is as easy as it is impressive: a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → Which proteins work well for build-your-own boards?
Mix sliced grilled chicken, marinated tofu, cooked shrimp, and falafel for versatile protein choices.
- → How should grains and bases be served?
Offer cooked jasmine rice, quinoa, and chopped lettuce in individual bowls for easy layering.
- → Which sauces and dressings complement the meal?
Lemon-tahini, olive oil with balsamic, and soy-ginger vinaigrette are flavorful choices for customization.
- → How do I accommodate dietary preferences?
Include plant-based proteins and gluten-free falafel; check all labels for allergens and dietary needs.
- → What serving tools are useful for these meals?
Use large platters, serving utensils, small bowls for toppings, tongs, and spoons for easy assembly.
- → Can I add more variety to the boards?
Try roasted vegetables, different cheeses, or global sauces like salsa, chimichurri, or peanut sauce.