Organize a healthy hot dog cookoff

July 06, 2009

Hot dogs are a tasty summer meal and barbecue staple, yet some brands aren't exactly the best for weight-conscious families. To celebrate National Hot Dog month and get creative on your next cookout, bring family and friends together for an alternative hot dog barbecue.

First of all, pick a weekend afternoon so most people can make it over and design some simple invites with all the details. Encourage family and friends to bring healthy hot dogs and toppings to toss on the grill and spice up this all-American favorite.

Chicken hot dogs are a good place to start for the tofu-fearing meat eaters at your event. Places such as Trader Joes have a great selection of flavored chicken sausages that can double as hot dogs with less fat and just as much flavor.

For the less fearsome, check out your store's vegetarian section to find a range of veggie hot dogs or sausages that everyone can sample. Also, consider pitas or whole wheat buns to get a good serving of whole grains.

Finally, assemble your dogs with plenty of grilled veggies - onions and peppers work best - and low fat condiments, like ketchup, mustard, relish and barbecue sauce. Cut into small pieces and let everyone sample the different dogs to pick the best.