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, making each bite fun and engaging while pleasing every palate.
When I first served this build-your-own meal at a family party, everyone loved choosing their own flavors and toppings. It turned dinner into a social event that had guests gathered around the table, sharing and laughing together.
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
- Edamame: 1 cup, cooked
- 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 (such as almonds or 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:
- Olive oil & balsamic vinegar:
- Soy-ginger vinaigrette:
Instructions
- Prepare proteins:
- Cook chicken, tofu, shrimp, and falafel as preferred by grilling, baking, or sautéing. Keep warm or serve at room temperature.
- Cook grains and bases:
- Prepare jasmine rice and quinoa according to package directions, then fluff with a fork. Chop romaine lettuce. Arrange each in its own serving bowl.
- Prepare fresh vegetables:
- Wash and chop all vegetables. Display in individual bowls or on a large platter for easy selection.
- Set up toppings and sauces:
- Place toppings and dressings into separate small bowls for clear presentation.
- Arrange components:
- Set out all items on a large table or counter, sorted by category for an organized display.
- Provide utensils:
- Put out tongs, spoons, and serving utensils for each bowl or platter.
- Invite guests:
- Encourage everyone to build their own bowl or plate, beginning with a base, adding proteins, vegetables, and toppings, then finishing with sauces and herbs.
Save We love how everyone gets involved in assembling their plate, and the kids especially enjoy picking their favorite toppings. These interactive dinners have become a tradition during family reunions!
Customization Ideas
Boost the variety by adding roasted vegetables, different cheeses, or international sauces like salsa, chimichurri, or peanut sauce to your spread.
Allergen & Diet Tips
To keep bowls safe for all, offer plant proteins for vegan guests and confirm falafel and sauces are gluten-free. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergies.
How to Serve & Pair
Serve everything family-style so everyone can help themselves. Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light-bodied Pinot Noir for a festive meal.
Save This build-your-own meal makes hosting fun and memorable. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and discover new flavor combinations together.
Kitchen Guide
- → How do I keep ingredients fresh at a gathering?
Arrange proteins and vegetables in chilled bowls or platters, and replenish as needed to maintain freshness throughout your event.
- → What are the best bases for build-your-own bowls?
Jasmine rice, fluffy quinoa, and chopped lettuce work well—offering varied textures and flavors to suit everyone’s preference.
- → Can I offer vegan and gluten-free choices?
Yes! Include plenty of plant proteins, such as grilled tofu and chickpeas, and verify that grains, falafel, and sauces meet dietary needs.
- → What sauces pair well with these meals?
Lemon-tahini, soy-ginger vinaigrette, tzatziki, and olive oil & balsamic offer classic flavor profiles for assorted boards or bowls.
- → How can I add variety for guests?
Offer a selection of roasted vegetables, global sauces, cheeses, nuts, and herbs to encourage creativity and satisfy every palate.
- → What tools are needed for serving?
Use large serving platters and bowls for main ingredients, smaller bowls for sauces and toppings, plus tongs and spoons for easy access.