Hot dogs elevated: A gourmet take on the backyard classic
Dressed-up dogs — (top, left to right) Coney Island, All-American, All-American w/ slaw, (bottom, left to right) Chicago, The Garden, Hot-to-Trot.
A hot dog bar can be an easy, festive treat at your Memorial Day gathering. Play with fun bowls and cups to enhance your presentation.
Who said hot dogs have to be boring? A hot dog bar can provide a delicious meal with combinations limited only by your imagination.
Hot dogs are a quintessential food of summer, a nostalgic nod to simpler times. This Memorial Day weekend, we’re honoring the classic hand-held frank, but kicking it up a notch in flavor and sophistication. (Beware: you may need a plate and fork for these dogs.)
Why not make a splash this weekend with a build-your-own hot dog station that’s sure to become the star of the show? It’s easy to set up, endlessly customizable, and guarantees a smile with every bite. Your family and guests will love it!
Move over, boring ketchup and mustard. There’s a new grilled favorite in town.
THE D-I-Y HOT DOG BAR
Setting up a hot dog bar is fun. Toppings are limited only by your imagination and sense of adventure.
INGREDIENT IDEAS
- Grilled pineapple
- Chopped onions
- Teriyaki sauce
- Chili
- Grilled onions and peppers
- Grilled corn
- Coleslaw
- Cotija, feta, Swiss, and cheddar cheeses, shredded
- Pickled peppers
- Sauerkraut
- Pickled and fresh jalapeno peppers
- Sliced dill pickles
- Diced tomatoes
- Banana peppers
- Everything bagel seasoning
- Brown mustard
- Yellow mustard
- Ketchup
- Mayonnaise
- Hot sauces
TIPS
Don’t skimp on the dogs. They are the centerpiece, so go all out with 100% beef. The taste is worth the extra expense.
Don’t skimp on the buns. They need to be fresh and large enough to handle a generous amount of toppings. We love artisan Brioche buns.
Buy a few veggie dogs, too. That way every guest can enjoy the hot dog bar.
Use small bowls, vintage tea cups, pottery pieces, ramekins, or coffee cups to hold toppings.
Choose a color theme (we recommend red, white, and blue, of course!) or mix it up.
Chop veggies and refrigerate before guests arrive but save the sautéing (peppers and onions) and heating (chili) until it’s almost time to eat.
OUR DOGS
Husband Marty and I set up a small hot dog bar at home last weekend and tried a few combos. These were a few of our favorites.
The Coney Island: (This was a staple at the Wilkerson house when I was growing up.) chili, yellow mustard, diced white onions, and cheddar cheese.
The All-American: (just the basics) ketchup, mustard, onions. Coleslaw optional.
The Chicago: (Have to admit — I questioned this one, but it is delicious!) yellow mustard, dill pickle slice, tomato slices, relish, diced onion, peppers.
The Italian-American: (Mamma Mia!) grilled onions and bell peppers, ketchup, and banana peppers.
The Garden: (Tasty!) grilled peppers and onions, sauerkraut, brown mustard.
Hot to Trot: pickled jalapeños, shredded cheddar, and hot sauce.
Hot diggety dog! Your Memorial Day cookout will be a hit!
Sandra Wilkerson Queen is the arts & entertainment editor. She may be reached at 828-445-8595, ext. 2002, or sandra@thepaper.media.
