Hot dogs are a summer staple that everyone loves. But save the boring ol’ mustard and ketchup for the kids. Take your hot dog from boring to fabulous with these 5 creative toppings. No excuses! It only takes a few minutes to whip each of these up.
1. Asian Slaw Dog
Add some crunch and flair to your dog with this fabulous sesame Asian slaw. Simply julienne (thinly slice) red cabbage, kale, red pepper, cilantro and carrots and toss together in a bowl. Whisk together rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, lime juice and canola oil and drizzle over top, tossing well to coat. Add crushed peanuts and sesame seeds and toss again. Grill hot dogs on a hot BBQ or grill. Place dogs in a sesame seed-crusted hot dog bun and heap Asian slaw over top. Serve immediately.
→ Get the full recipe for this Sesame Asian Slaw here!
2. Ultimate Guacamole Dog
Guac on your dog? We say, why not. Guacamole is one of summer’s best dishes, and it’s simply fabulous when mounded high on a grilled dog. In a large bowl, mash 3 large ripe avocados. Add the juice of 2 to 3 limes, 1/2 cup sliced cherry tomatoes, 1 tbsp finely chopped jalapeno and a handful of freshly chopped cilantro. Stir and season to taste with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Grill hot dogs on a hot BBQ or grill. Place chargrilled dogs in crusty buns and heap with lots of guacamole. Serve immediately with nacho chips and lime wedges. Feeling adventurous? Why not crumble some nacho chips right over top?
3. Greek Dog
Inspired by a classic Greek salad, this hot dog topping will make you feel like you just stepped off a boat in the Mediterranean sea. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice 2 pints of cherry or vine tomatoes and spread in an even layer over the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sea salt and pepper and roast in a 325 F oven for 1 hour, tossing often. Let tomatoes cool and then transfer to a large bowl. Add 1 diced cucumber, 1 cup cubed feta and a handful of torn basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and toss well. Grill hot dogs on a hot BBQ or grill. Place dogs in a large pita and heap with Greek salad. Serve immediately.
4. Mango Salsa Dog
Freshen up your hot dog with this fiery mango salsa. Simply dice some ripe (but not too ripe) mango and throw in some finely diced shallot, freshly chopped cilantro, minced red chili or jalapeno (for a little kick) and lots of freshly squeezed lime juice. Grill hot dogs on a hot BBQ or grill and place in a crunchy bun. Top with a drizzle of BBQ sauce and lots of mango salsa. Serve immediately.
→ Get the full recipe for Fiery Mango Salsa here!
5. Caramelized Onion and Blue Cheese Dog
If you like the classics and you’re looking for something a little indulgent, this topper is for you. What could be better than sweet caramelized onions paired with (let’s be honest, stinky, but in the best possible way,) crumbled blue cheese. Thinly slice 2 large Vidalia onions. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring often, until they begin to soften and caramelize, about 10 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue to cook for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring often, until onions are very golden and soft. Stir in 1 tbsp freshly chopped thyme leaves and season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove pan from the heat to cool slightly. Grill hot dogs on a hot BBQ or grill and place in a brioche-style bun. Top with caramelized onions and then crumble your favourite blue cheese over top. Serve immediately.
