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, engaging and sure to please every palate.
I hosted a dinner using this build-your-own boards and bowls concept, and everyone loved creating their own meal. It sparked fun conversations and satisfied every dietary need at the table.
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: 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:
- Cook chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel by grilling, baking, or sautéing according to your preference. Keep them warm or at room temperature.
- Prepare grains and bases:
- Cook jasmine rice and quinoa as directed, then fluff with a fork. Chop romaine lettuce and arrange all bases in separate serving bowls.
- Prep vegetables:
- Wash and chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, carrots, edamame, and sweet potato cubes for serving.
- Set up toppings and sauces:
- Arrange cheese, olives, pickled onions, nuts/seeds, hummus, tzatziki, spicy sauces, and fresh herbs in small bowls.
- Build your station:
- Group all components by category on a large table or counter for easy access. Include serving utensils for each item.
- Let guests assemble:
- Invite everyone to create their own bowl or plate, starting with a base, adding proteins and vegetables, topping as desired, and finishing with dressings or herbs.
Save My family enjoys gathering around the table and sharing stories while building their plates. It turns mealtime into a festive occasion every time.
Required Tools
Use large serving platters and bowls for each category, plus small bowls for sauces and toppings. Have tongs and spoons ready for guests.
Allergen Information
This spread may contain dairy, eggs, soy, nuts/seeds, gluten, and shellfish. Always verify ingredients and labels before serving to guests with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (a typical bowl) contains approximately 420 calories, 14 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, and 22 g protein.
Save This build-your-own board and bowl spread makes entertaining effortless and delicious. Enjoy customizing, connecting, and celebrating great food together.
Kitchen Q&A
- → How do I keep ingredients fresh during a party?
Prepare chilled items in advance and keep proteins warm or at room temperature. Use covered bowls and platters for freshness.
- → Can I customize the board for vegan or gluten-free guests?
Absolutely! Offer plant proteins like tofu and falafel, plus ensure sauces and grains meet dietary needs. Check ingredient labels.
- → What sauces pair well with the spread?
Try lemon-tahini, olive oil & balsamic vinegar, soy-ginger vinaigrette—or choose global flavors such as salsa or chimichurri.
- → What are some wine pairings?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Noir complement the vibrant mix of ingredients and flavors.
- → How should I organize the serving area?
Group proteins, grains, vegetables, toppings, and sauces by category for easy access. Provide utensils for each item.
- → Are there kid-friendly options?
Keep bases, proteins, and toppings mild and offer familiar sauces so kids can customize bowls to their taste.