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 tried interactive build-your-own bowls at a summer gathering and it was such a hit that everyone asked for the setup for their next party. It's a great way to get guests involved and to keep the meal lively.
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:
- Grill, bake, or sauté chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel according to preference. Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Cook and arrange grains:
- Cook rice and quinoa as directed, fluff with a fork, and arrange with chopped lettuce in separate serving bowls.
- Prep fresh vegetables:
- Wash and chop all vegetables. Arrange in individual bowls or on a large platter.
- Set toppings and sauces:
- Combine toppings and sauces in small bowls for serving.
- Build the bar:
- Set out all meal components on a large table or counter, grouping by category for easy guest access.
- Provide utensils:
- Offer appropriate serving utensils for each item.
- Invite guests to build:
- Let guests assemble their own bowls or plates, starting with a base, adding proteins, vegetables, toppings, and dressings with fresh herbs.
Save This format became an instant favorite at our family reunion. Everyone enjoyed creating unique combinations, and the kids loved choosing their own toppings.
Required Tools
Use large serving platters and bowls, plenty of small bowls for sauces and extras, plus tongs and serving spoons for easy access.
Allergen Information
Be aware of common allergens such as dairy, eggs, soy, nuts, seeds, gluten, and shellfish. Always verify ingredient labels and keep components separated for safety.
Nutritional Information
Each bowl averages 420 calories, with 14 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, and 22 g protein per serving. Nutritional values will vary depending on choices.
Save This interactive board approach sparks conversation and ensures every guest enjoys their meal just as they like it.
Recipe FAQ
- → What proteins can I serve with these platters?
Offer a mix such as grilled chicken, baked tofu, cooked shrimp, and falafel balls to accommodate different preferences.
- → How do guests assemble their own board or bowl?
Guests start with a grain or lettuce base, add proteins and veggies, then finish with chosen toppings and dressings.
- → Can I make this meal vegan or gluten-free?
Yes. Use plant-based proteins and dairy alternatives, and check all ingredients for gluten-free certification.
- → What sauces and dressings are recommended?
Choices include lemon-tahini dressing, olive oil with balsamic vinegar, soy-ginger vinaigrette, hummus, and spicy yogurt sauce.
- → How should ingredients be displayed for serving?
Arrange proteins, grains, veggies, and toppings separately in bowls and platters for easy access and personalization.
- → What wine pairs well with these meals?
Try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Noir for a complementary pairing.