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 presented this interactive meal at a family party and it was a hit. Kids and adults were excited to customize their bowls, making the experience lively and memorable.
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 (e.g., 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 as desired (grill, bake, or sauté). Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Cook Grains & Bases:
- Prepare jasmine rice and quinoa, fluff with a fork. Chop romaine lettuce. Arrange grains and greens in separate serving bowls.
- Prep Vegetables:
- Wash and chop all fresh vegetables. Place each in individual serving bowls or on a large platter.
- Organize Toppings & Sauces:
- Fill small bowls with toppings, sauces, and dressings.
- Set Up Spread:
- Arrange all components by category on a large table or counter for easy access.
- Supply Utensils:
- Provide serving utensils for each item.
- Invite Guests:
- Encourage everyone to build their own bowls or plates, starting with a base, then proteins, vegetables, toppings, and finish with dressings and fresh herbs.
Pin it We love gathering around the board, each family member crafting a bowl that suits their taste. It's become our go-to for birthdays and celebrations, sparking fun conversations and creativity.
Required Tools
Large serving platters and bowls, serving utensils, small bowls for sauces and toppings, tongs and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains: Dairy (feta, tzatziki), Eggs (mayonnaise), Soy (tofu, edamame, soy sauce), Nuts/Seeds (toppings). Gluten may be present in falafel, sauces, and dressings, so always verify. Includes shellfish (shrimp).
Nutritional Information
Per serving (typical bowl): 420 calories, 14 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, 22 g protein.
Pin it This interactive board will quickly become the centerpiece of your parties. Enjoy watching guests connect as they build their perfect plate together.
Recipe FAQs
- → What proteins work best for these boards and bowls?
Grilled chicken, marinated tofu, cooked shrimp, and falafel are all flavorful options. Include plant-based choices for variety.
- → How can I accommodate dietary restrictions?
Offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free alternatives, such as chickpeas, tempeh, and certified gluten-free sauces.
- → What are some recommended grain or base choices?
Jasmine rice, quinoa, and chopped romaine lettuce provide diverse options for building a satisfying bowl or plate.
- → How do I create an attractive presentation for guests?
Arrange ingredients by category on platters and in small bowls, grouping proteins, grains, vegetables, and extras for easy access.
- → Can I suggest wine pairings for this meal?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Noir complements the fresh, customizable spread nicely.
- → Are there creative toppings I can add?
Try crumbled cheese, roasted nuts or seeds, pickled onions, and global sauces like chimichurri or salsa for extra flavor.