Save A vibrant spread of customizable boards & bowls, perfect for social gatherings. Guests mix & match fresh ingredients to create their own personalized meals, engaging everyone & pleasing every palate.
I first tried interactive plated meals at a friend's gathering. It was a hit because everyone could choose exactly what they liked, making it both delicious & memorable.
Ingredients
- Grilled chicken breast: 400 g, sliced
- Marinated tofu: 400 g, grilled or baked, cubed
- Cooked shrimp: 400 g, peeled & 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:
- Cook protein options—grill, bake, or sauté chicken, tofu, shrimp, & falafel. Keep warm or at room temperature.
- Cook bases:
- Prepare grains as directed. Fluff with a fork. Arrange rice, quinoa, & chopped lettuce in serving bowls.
- Prep vegetables:
- Wash & chop all fresh vegetables. Arrange in separate bowls or on a large platter.
- Assemble toppings & sauces:
- Place toppings & dressings into small bowls.
- Organize the spread:
- Set components on a large table or counter, grouping by category for easy access.
- Set serving utensils:
- Provide serving utensils for each item.
- Invite guests:
- Encourage guests to build bowls or plates. Start with a base, add proteins, vegetables, toppings, & finish with dressings & herbs.
Save This meal sparked laughter & creativity at our family get-together. Our kids loved stacking veggies & choosing their own sauces!
Serving Suggestions
Offer a mix of warm & cold bases for variety. Include extra sauces in small bowls for drizzling at the table.
Allergen Tips
Label items that contain dairy, nuts, soy, gluten, & shellfish. Provide vegan, vegetarian, & gluten-free alternatives where possible.
Wine Pairings
Try serving with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir to complement the diverse flavors.
Save This interactive meal makes entertaining relaxed & memorable. Enjoy mixing, matching, & connecting over delicious shared food!
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → How do I keep ingredients fresh for serving?
Prepare proteins and grains just before serving or keep them warm. Chill vegetables and set out toppings in small bowls to maintain freshness.
- → What are the best bases for bowls and boards?
Jasmine rice, quinoa, and chopped romaine lettuce offer versatile options. Consider adding other grains like farro or couscous for variety.
- → How can I accommodate dietary restrictions?
Offer plant-based proteins, check for gluten-free options, and set sauces with allergen info. Customize extras to fit vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free needs.
- → Which sauces work well for these meals?
Lemon-tahini, balsamic vinaigrette, and soy-ginger vinaigrette provide flavor. Include options like spicy yogurt sauce or hummus for added variety.
- → What wine pairs well with these dishes?
Try a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Noir to complement both the fresh vegetables and varied proteins on the boards and bowls.
- → Can I prepare ingredients in advance?
Yes. Proteins and grains can be cooked ahead and reheated. Chop vegetables and prepare toppings shortly before serving to preserve texture.