BBQ Season - We Love Hotdogs!

BBQ Season - we love hotdogs!

Written by Dietitian & Mom: Elis Halenko

We love hotdogs in our house but we try to get creative with our toppings to add new flavors, colors & crunch to our grill.

Nothing says summer like a backyard BBQ. Whether it’s a casual weeknight grill sesh or a weekend gathering with family and friends, BBQs are one of my favorite ways to bring people together over simple, delicious food.

As a dietitian and mom, I’m always looking for ways to balance fun foods with fresh ingredients—and BBQs are the perfect time to get creative. One of my go-to tricks? Turn the hot dog bar into a veggie-loaded flavor station. Think crunchy, spicy, creamy, and colorful toppings that add more than just nutrition—they add personality.

Hot Dog Makeover: Topping Ideas We Love

Let’s be real: there’s nothing wrong with classic ketchup and mustard—but if you want to add more color, fiber, and fun, here are some veggie-forward hot dog toppings to try this summer:

🟣 Beet Dip (or Beet Hummus)

Adds creamy texture, earthy flavor, and that bright magenta color pop everyone loves. Bonus: full of fiber and antioxidants.

🌶 Spicy Pickled Peppers

Bring the heat! Try pickled jalapeños, banana peppers, or even kimchi for a fermented twist.

🟢 Sprouts

A fresh, crunchy topper that feels like summer. Alfalfa or radish sprouts add a bit of bite and loads of texture.

🥒 Quick Pickles or Dill Slices

Tangy, crunchy, and kid-approved. You can make quick pickles in minutes using vinegar, salt, and cucumbers.

🧅 Grilled Red Onions or Shallots

Caramelized and savory—they bring a gourmet twist to your dog.

🟠 Shredded Carrot + Cabbage Slaw

Toss in a light vinaigrette or yogurt dressing for a crunchy, refreshing topper.

BBQ Tips for More Veggies (Without Losing the Fun)

Grill your veggies first so they don’t get forgotten—try zucchini planks, mushrooms, corn on the cob, and peppers.
Set up a “Top It Yourself” bar with all the toppings listed above, and let everyone build their own dream dog (kids LOVE this!).
Try serving with salad skewers (cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta) or grilled fruit (pineapple, peach slices) for a sweet-savory side.
Add veggie dogs or chicken sausages alongside traditional options so everyone has something to enjoy.

Optional Hot Dog Toppings Bar

Sautéed mushrooms
Fresh herbs (basil, dill, cilantro)
Chili garlic sauce
Creamy feta or goat cheese crumbles
Avocado mash
Roasted red peppers
Kimchi or sauerkraut

Real Talk From a Dietitian Mom

BBQs don’t have to be all-or-nothing when it comes to “healthy eating.” You can absolutely enjoy classic grilled foods and still sneak in flavorful, fiber-filled ingredients that make meals feel more satisfying.

Sometimes, all it takes is a good sauce or a crunchy topping to take your plate from ordinary to “wow, what’s in this?”

Tag Me If You Build a Hot Dog Bar!

If you try one of these summer hot dog ideas, tag me @thefoodstylistrd. I LOVE seeing how you build flavor into your family meals—and I might just repost your plate!