By Kelly Bogard

Summer is fast approaching and the stands are full…of baseball fans, that is. From little league to major league, there’s always a game to watch this time of year. And with full grandstands come busy concession stands, too.

Of all the tasty snacks, hot dogs still reign supreme. In fact, according to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, more than 1.4 million hot dogs will be eaten at Texas Rangers Globe Life Park this season.

And there are all kinds of hot dog creations to choose from. I’m getting in on the action, too, and have three great dogs you can make at home for the boys and girls of summer.

For Bacon Cheeseburger Hot Dogs, you will need…HotDogs3Ways_TTT
hot dog wieners
bacon
American cheese
sliced pickles
mustard and/or ketchup
buns

Wrap your hot dog in bacon and grill. Then simply assemble with the cheese, mustard and/or ketchup and pickle in the bun.

For Fiesta Dogs, you will need…HotDogs3Ways_TTT
hot dog wieners
chili
pico de gallo
queso blanco, crumbled
buns

While your wieners are grilling, mix together all of the ingredients for Pico De Gallo. Once the meat is ready, layer the bun with meat, chili, pico and cheese.

For Sausage Dogs, you will need…HotDogs3Ways_TTT
link sausage
8 oz. shredded cabbage
1/4 red onion, sliced thin
2 tbsp. red wine vinegar
1 tbsp. sugar
sharp cheddar cheese, grated
spicy mustard

Mix together the cabbage, onion, vinegar and sugar to make a slaw. Set it aside to marinate while you grill the sausage. To build the dog, spread spicy mustard on the bun, add the sausage and then follow with slaw and a sprinkle of cheese.

There really is no wrong way to make a hot dog, so mix it up and try some of your favorite flavors. Be sure to share them with us in the comments, too. I’m sure you’ll have some ideas that will hit it out of the park! Have fun this summer watching ball and spending time with friends. From all of us at Texas Table Top, enjoy!