Hot dogs are a must in most busy households. From easy lunches to fast weeknight dinners, throwing some hot dogs on the grill is a great way to add some protein to your day. But what if you want to take your hot dog game to the next level? Here are three ways that you can elevate your hot dog game and wow your family and friends.

1. Break out the Toppings

Who says that the only thing that should go on a hot dog is ketchup and mustard? That’s so lame. Why not spice it up with some unexpected toppings? From seasonal picks like fresh fruit to savory options that add a kick of flavor, here are some of our favorite creative hot dog recipes that rely on awesome toppings.

French Onion Hot Dog

This recipe is super easy and only requires a few ingredients. We recommend our Organic Chicken Hot Dog for a fun twist. To make this special sauce, simply combine Greek yogurt with some French onion soup mix. Place some arugula on a toasted bun and then add your hot dog and special sauce. Finish off the meal with some kale chips, and you’re ready to dig in!

Turkey Chili Cheese Dog

What’s not to love about a classic chili cheese dog? This healthier take on the traditional chili cheese hot dog is a crowd pleaser. We completed our unique dog by adding turkey and kidney beans to our chili and then piling on the organic cheddar cheese. This hot dog will fill you up with its hearty goodness.

Tropical Hot Dogs

Why not add some summer flair to your hot dogs? This recipe calls for your favorite fresh fruits and veggies like pineapple, red peppers, and avocados and pairs it with our succulent Organic Uncured Grass-Fed Hot Dogs, toasted buns, and some fresh cilantro. All you need to do here is cook you hot dogs like normal then top with your prepared summer salsa. Can you say yum?

Spicy Street Dog

Summer might be coming to an end, but you can keep the summer-time vibes rolling by making these fun spicy street dogsin your home. What’s better than street food? Not much! Now you can bring the exotic tastes of the street into your kitchen with this fun recipe. Add in fresh veggies like peppers, red onions, and jalapeños then create your own street sauce from some Sriracha and mayonnaise.

Cali Dog

You can bite into a piece of The Golden State with this California-inspired recipe. Made with California staples like alfalfa sprouts and avocados, this west coast dog is delicious. For an added kick, you can throw in some cayenne or use hot curry powder, to taste.

2. You Can’t Forget Those Buns!

So many people will focus on the hot dogs themselves but will forget to think about their buns! That’s like making a cake but forgetting the icing! And who doesn’t love icing?  There are a few easy ways that you can elevate your bun game.

Toasted Buns

When you’re done making your hot dogs out on the grill or in the pan, why not throw your buns on and give them a light toasting? Not only will this give them a satisfying crisp texture, it will allow the bread to soak up some of the savory juices that the links may have released while cooking.

Try Bun Substitutes

There’s no reason that a hot dog has to be served on a classic white bread bun. Have some fun and try out bun alternative to really shake up your hot dog offerings. Our friend Saphira from wellness blog (www.peanut-head.com) recently gave us an awesome homemade, gluten-free tortilla recipe that rocks!

You could also try wrapping your hot dogs in lettuce instead of traditional buns. This gives you a satisfying crunch when you bite into your dog, but doesn’t take away from the meal’s flavor. This is a great option for those trying to stick to a Whole30 or gluten-free diet.

3. Get Creative with Cooking

Why limit your hot dog experience to the kitchen or grill? There are lots of ways that you get creative with hot dogs when it comes to cooking. Hot dogs are super mobile and easy to cook on the go, so don’t limit your enjoyment to your house. On your next camping trip, bring some skewers and any of the toppings list above and let your guests toast their own dinner of the roaring fire!

If you’re heading out for a wilderness adventure, try taking along a propane camp stove. You can find these bad boys almost anywhere, and they’re super easy to pack. Being small, they’re also very easy to transport. Bring along a skillet, and you’ll be all set to cook your hot dogs anywhere the mood strikes.

We’ve Got Your Hot Dog Needs Covered

At True Story Food, we’re proud to say that we have a wide selection of delicious hot dogs for you to choose from. And with our range of organic and pasture raised hot dogs, you can take your pick between any of our gluten and antibiotic-free options. Whatever way your tastes may lean, we have a hot dog that’s perfect for you.