What to serve with hot dogs?
Updated: July 31, 2024Hot dogs are a staple of American cuisine, often enjoyed at barbecues, sporting events, and casual gatherings. While they can certainly be enjoyed on their own, pairing them with the right sides and accompaniments can elevate the experience. Below is a comprehensive guide on what to serve with hot dogs, ensuring a delightful meal.
Classic Side Dishes
French Fries
French fries are a quintessential pairing for hot dogs. Their crispy exterior and soft interior create a delightful contrast to the texture of a hot dog. Opt for classic straight-cut fries, curly fries, or even waffle fries for variety. To elevate them, consider sprinkling some sea salt, adding a touch of truffle oil, or serving with a side of aioli.
Potato Salad
Potato salad is another beloved side dish that complements hot dogs well. The creamy texture and tangy flavor provide a refreshing counterbalance. Traditional potato salad includes ingredients like mayonnaise, mustard, hard-boiled eggs, and celery. For a twist, try a German-style potato salad made with a vinegar-based dressing.
Coleslaw
Coleslaw offers a crunchy, tangy accompaniment to hot dogs. The mixture of shredded cabbage and carrots dressed in mayonnaise or vinegar can cleanse the palate and add a refreshing element. For a unique take, consider an Asian-inspired slaw with a sesame-ginger dressing.
Innovative Side Dishes
Sweet Potato Fries
For a healthier alternative to regular fries, sweet potato fries are an excellent choice. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory taste of hot dogs. Season them with a bit of cinnamon or paprika to enhance their flavor.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a nutritious and flavorful side dish. Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and asparagus can be grilled to perfection, adding a smoky flavor that complements hot dogs. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with herbs for added zest.
Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a hearty side dish that pairs wonderfully with hot dogs. The creamy, cheesy pasta provides a comforting balance to the meatiness of hot dogs. For a gourmet touch, bake the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs on top for a crispy layer.
Salads
Caesar Salad
A Caesar salad offers a crunchy, tangy accompaniment to hot dogs. The combination of romaine lettuce, crispy croutons, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing adds a refreshing and slightly tangy counterpoint. To add more protein, consider including grilled chicken or shrimp.
Greek Salad
Greek salad is a vibrant and fresh side dish. Made with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onions, and feta cheese, and dressed with olive oil and oregano, it offers a Mediterranean flair. The salty feta and briny olives provide a great contrast to the hot dogs.
Specialty Condiments
Relishes
Relishes such as sweet pickle relish, corn relish, and even spicy pepper relish can add an extra burst of flavor to hot dogs. These condiments provide a combination of sweetness, tanginess, and heat that can enhance the overall taste.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a traditional German condiment made from fermented cabbage. Its tangy and slightly sour flavor pairs excellently with hot dogs. It adds a layer of complexity and is especially popular in hot dog styles like the New York dog.
Chili
Chili is a hearty and flavorful addition to hot dogs. A ladle of chili on top of a hot dog can transform it into a chili dog. Add some shredded cheese, diced onions, and jalapeños for an extra kick.
Beverages
Lemonade
Lemonade is a refreshing beverage to serve with hot dogs, especially during the summer months. Its tartness can help cleanse the palate and balance the savory flavors of the hot dogs.
Beer
Beer is a classic pairing with hot dogs, particularly at barbecues and sporting events. Light lagers, pilsners, and even hoppy IPAs can complement the flavors of hot dogs. For a more sophisticated pairing, try a craft beer with unique flavor profiles.
Iced Tea
Iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, offers a cooling and refreshing drink option. Add a slice of lemon or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of freshness.
International Inspirations
Japanese-Inspired Hot Dogs
For a unique twist, consider serving hot dogs with Japanese-inspired toppings. Add teriyaki sauce, pickled ginger, wasabi mayo, and seaweed flakes. Pair this with a side of edamame or a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar.
Mexican-Inspired Hot Dogs
Mexican flavors can add a vibrant twist to hot dogs. Toppings like guacamole, pico de gallo, jalapeños, and queso fresco can create a fiesta on a bun. Serve with a side of elote (Mexican street corn) or tortilla chips and salsa.
Desserts
Fruit Salad
A fresh fruit salad is a light and refreshing way to end a meal centered around hot dogs. Combine seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and watermelon for a colorful and healthy dessert.
Ice Cream
Ice cream is a classic dessert that pairs well with hot dogs, especially on a hot day. Offer a variety of flavors and toppings like chocolate syrup, sprinkles, and whipped cream to create a delightful treat.
Pies
Pies, particularly fruit pies like apple or cherry, can provide a sweet and satisfying conclusion to a hot dog meal. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Creative Presentation Ideas
Hot Dog Bar
Set up a hot dog bar with various toppings and sides, allowing guests to customize their own hot dogs. Include a variety of buns, condiments, and unique toppings to cater to everyone's preferences.
Picnic Style
For a casual and fun presentation, serve hot dogs picnic-style. Lay out a gingham blanket, use mason jars for condiments, and include classic picnic sides like chips, pickles, and watermelon slices.
Food Truck Theme
Embrace a food truck theme by serving hot dogs in creative and gourmet styles. Offer specialty toppings and sides inspired by global cuisines, and serve everything in eco-friendly containers.
Ultimately, the best sides and accompaniments for hot dogs depend on personal preferences and the setting of your meal. Whether you opt for classic pairings or innovative twists, the right combination can make a simple hot dog meal truly memorable.
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