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 hosted a build-your-own board night last summer for friends visiting from out of town. Everyone loved the freedom to customize their own plates, and it sparked some lively conversations about favorite flavors and creative combinations!
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 Grains & Arrange Bases:
- Prepare jasmine rice and quinoa as directed and fluff with a fork. Place rice, quinoa, and chopped lettuce in separate serving bowls.
- Prep Fresh Vegetables:
- Wash and chop all vegetables. Display them in individual bowls or on a large platter.
- Set Out Toppings & Sauces:
- Place all toppings and sauces into small bowls for easy access.
- Assemble & Organize:
- Arrange all components on a large table or counter, grouped by category.
- Provide Serving Utensils:
- Lay out utensils for each ingredient and sauce.
- Invite Guests to Build:
- Encourage everyone to create their own bowls or plates, starting with a base and layering proteins, veggies, toppings, and dressings.
Save My family loves gathering around these boards for celebratory meals, especially when everyone gets to share their favorite mix-ins and toppings.
Required Tools
Large serving platters and bowls, serving utensils, small bowls for sauces and toppings, tongs, and spoons ensure a seamless experience for all your guests.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy, eggs, soy, nuts/seeds, and shellfish. Read all ingredient labels and check for gluten where needed to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (typical bowl): 420 calories, 14 g fat, 48 g carbohydrates, 22 g protein.
Save Set out a variety of bowls and boards, then let guests create as they please. The playful presentation brings excitement to any celebration!
Kitchen Help
- → How can I keep ingredients fresh for serving?
Prepare ingredients just before serving and keep perishable items chilled until set on the table. Use covers to retain freshness.
- → What bases work best for build-your-own boards?
Popular choices include cooked rice, quinoa, and fresh chopped lettuce. Mix and match for added texture and flavor variety.
- → Can I make vegan and gluten-free options available?
Easily offer vegan or gluten-free choices by substituting plant-based proteins, certified falafel, and selecting suitable sauces or toppings.
- → Which sauces pair well with these bowls?
Try lemon-tahini, olive oil & balsamic vinegar, and soy-ginger vinaigrette for versatile flavor choices. Offer a spicy sauce for extra kick.
- → What are some wine pairings for boards and bowls?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs well, or choose a light-bodied Pinot Noir to complement the meal's fresh and varied flavors.
- → What tools do I need for a build-your-own board meal?
Use large platters, bowls, small sauce dishes, serving utensils, tongs, and spoons for smooth assembling and serving.