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.
Interactive plated meals have been a favorite at our get-togethers. I remember the excitement as everyone gathered around the table, experimenting with new combinations and discovering unexpected flavor pairings.
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 as preferred. Keep warm or serve at room temperature.
- Cook grains and bases:
- Prepare jasmine rice and quinoa as directed. Fluff with a fork and arrange cooked rice, quinoa, and chopped lettuce in separate serving bowls.
- Prep fresh vegetables:
- Wash and chop all fresh vegetables. Arrange in individual bowls or on a large platter.
- Set up toppings and sauces:
- Assemble toppings and sauces in small bowls for easy serving.
- Arrange components:
- Set out all ingredients on a large table or counter, grouping items by category for convenience and visual appeal.
- Provide utensils:
- Place serving utensils with each dish.
- Invite guests:
- Guests build their own bowls or plates, starting with a base, choosing proteins, vegetables, toppings, and finishing with dressings and herbs.
Save Our family loves these interactive meals, especially watching the kids build their own bowls packed with color and flavor. The shared laughter as everyone customizes their plates brings us all closer.
Required Tools
Large serving platters and bowls, serving utensils, small bowls for sauces and toppings, tongs, and spoons. Having a variety of serving pieces makes it easier for guests to reach what they want.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy, eggs, soy, nuts, gluten, and shellfish ingredients. Always verify labels, especially for falafel, sauces, and dressings, to avoid cross-contamination for sensitive guests.
Nutritional Information
Each bowl (typical serving) contains approximately 420 calories, 14 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, and 22 g protein. Nutrition will vary depending on ingredient choices and portion sizes.
Save Set out all items before guests arrive for a smooth start. This build-your-own meal makes every gathering memorable and delicious!
Cooking Questions
- → How can I offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Include plant proteins like tofu, falafel, and offer vegan cheese or extra chickpeas. Omit animal-derived ingredients as needed.
- → What bases work best for the boards and bowls?
Jasmine rice, quinoa, and chopped romaine lettuce give guests a range of grains and greens for building custom plates.
- → How do I arrange ingredients for easy serving?
Use large platters and separate bowls for each ingredient group. Group proteins, grains, veggies, and toppings for smooth flow.
- → How can I add flexibility for dietary preferences?
Offer gluten-free falafel, allergy-friendly sauces, and label all components. Let guests choose ingredients based on their needs.
- → What wine pairs well with these boards?
Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir to complement the diverse flavors and keep the meal lively.
- → Can I prepare components ahead of time?
Yes, grill proteins and cook grains ahead. Chop vegetables and store separately. Assemble just before serving for freshness.