Healthy Alternatives to Hotdogs
Hotdogs have long been a staple at picnics, barbecues, and quick lunch options. However, their high sodium and saturated fat content can make them less than ideal for those seeking a health-conscious diet. Luckily, there are plenty of delicious and nutritious alternatives that can satisfy your cravings while keeping your health in check.
CMC Cardiology understands that caring for your heart health is the best and easiest way to prevent heart disease. Eating a heart-healthy diet is the first step, so they gave us four mouthwatering healthy alternatives to hotdogs for you to try that are sure to become your new favorites.
Grilled Chicken Sausages with Veggie Relish
Chicken sausages are leaner than traditional pork sausages, making them a healthier option.
Ingredients
- Lean chicken sausages (try to choose ones with minimal additives)
- Whole grain buns
- Mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green), diced
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Grill the chicken sausages until cooked through and slightly browned.
- In a bowl, combine the diced bell peppers, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
- Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the veggies, and season with salt and pepper. Toss well to combine.
- Serve the grilled chicken sausages in whole grain buns, topped with the fresh veggie relish.
Turkey and Apple Sausages
Turkey sausages are lower in saturated fat while still offering a satisfying savory taste. Look for options with minimal additives and preservatives.
Ingredients
- Lean ground turkey
- Apples, grated
- Sage, finely chopped
- Thyme, finely chopped
- Nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chicken sausage casings (optional)
- Whole grain buns
Directions
- In a bowl, mix the ground turkey, grated apples, chopped sage, chopped thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- If using sausage casings, stuff the mixture into the casings and twist to form sausage links. If not using casings, shape the mixture into sausage-like patties.
- Grill or pan-cook the turkey and apple sausages until they are cooked through and nicely browned.
- Serve the sausages in whole grain buns, and feel free to add some mustard or a dollop of applesauce.
Portobello Mushroom “Hotdogs”
Portobello mushrooms are an excellent meaty substitute that adds a rich flavor to your hotdog experience. Marinate the mushrooms in your favorite grilling marinade for added flavor.
Ingredients
- Large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
- Balsamic vinegar
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Whole-grain hotdog buns
- Baby spinach or arugula
- Sliced avocado
- Dijon mustard (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the grill or a grill pan.
- Mix balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl to create a marinade.
- Brush the portobello mushrooms with the marinade on both sides.
- Grill the mushrooms for a few minutes on each side until they are tender and have grill marks.
- Toast the whole-grain hotdog buns on the grill.
- Place a grilled portobello mushroom in each bun.
- Top with baby spinach or arugula, sliced avocado, and a drizzle of Dijon mustard if desired.
Sweet Potato “Hotdog”
Swap out the meat with roasted sweet potato halves for a naturally sweet and nutrient-dense alternative. Change up this recipe by grilling the slices of sweet potato for yummy caramelization and flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and trimmed to bun size
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: smoked paprika or other seasonings of your choice
- 4 whole wheat or gluten-free hot dog buns
- 1 cup of coleslaw (pre-made or homemade)
- 1/2 cup of diced onions
- 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup of chopped pickles
- Mustard, ketchup, and any other condiments you like
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash, peel, and trim the sweet potatoes to match the size of your buns.
- Rub the sweet potatoes with a bit of olive oil, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings you prefer.
- Place the seasoned sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender but not falling apart. Turn them halfway through cooking for even browning.
- While the sweet potatoes are roasting, prepare your toppings. Dice the onions, tomatoes, and pickles. Prepare the coleslaw if you’re making it from scratch or use pre-made coleslaw.
- Once the sweet potatoes are roasted and slightly cooled, place each one in a whole wheat or gluten-free hot dog bun.
- Add a generous scoop of coleslaw on top of the sweet potato, followed by diced onions, tomatoes, and pickles.
- Drizzle mustard, ketchup, and any other condiments you prefer over the toppings.
When it comes to hotdogs, there’s no need to sacrifice taste for health. With these creative and wholesome alternatives, you can still enjoy the pleasure of a classic summer treat while prioritizing your well-being. Whether you’re opting for plant-based options, lean meats, or inventive veggie-based alternatives, these recipes prove that delicious and nutritious hotdogs are well within reach. So fire up the grill, gather your favorite toppings, and indulge in a healthier twist on a beloved classic.
Healthy Hearts with CMC Cardiac Care in Horry County
Your heart creates the rhythm of your life. At CMC Cardiology, our cardiologists are here to help you make the most of it. Known for their compassion and excellence in patient care, our cardiologists help diagnose, manage, and treat heart diseases and conditions. We’re here for every stage of your life and every matter of the heart.
