There’s nothing quite like the thrill of grilling on a sunny afternoon, and today I’m thrilled to share a delicious twist on a classic: Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs. As the sizzling sound of hot dogs hits the grill, the aroma dances through the air, mingling with hints of fresh veggies and tangy mustard. On a whim, I decided to elevate my usual BBQ fare, adding a zesty relish and crisp coleslaw that turns these beloved staples into something extraordinary.
This recipe not only celebrates the simplicity of a hot dog but transforms it into a vibrant dish that will impress your friends and family. Perfect for summer gatherings, backyard barbecues, or just a casual dinner at home, these gourmet-style spiral hot dogs are sure to transport your taste buds. Plus, they’re unbelievably easy to whip up, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Let’s fire up that grill and dive into the delightful layers of flavor that await you!
Why are Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs so special?
Flavorful Twist: These Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs elevate a classic with a creative twist on grilling.
Fresh Ingredients: The crunchy coleslaw and zesty relish bring a burst of freshness, enhancing every bite.
Easy Preparation: Minimal cooking experience is needed; you just grill and mix!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, they impress guests while keeping everything stress-free.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve them at picnics, game days, or even casual dinners for a guaranteed hit!
For more delicious grilling ideas, check out our best grilling tips to make your cookouts unforgettable!
Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs Ingredients
For the Hot Dogs
• 8 jumbo beef hot dogs – choose quality beef for a rich flavor that’ll satisfy any meat lover.
• 8 hot dog buns – fresh, soft buns create the perfect vessel for your spiral grilled hot dogs.
For the Relish
• 1 bell pepper – chopped fine to add a sweet crunch to your relish.
• 1-2 dill pickles – chopped fine, they provide that tangy kick balancing the flavors beautifully.
• ¼ cup chopped onion – adds savory depth and a little bite to the relish mix.
For the Slaw
• 1 cup green cabbage – finely shredded, it offers a delightful crunch and vibrant color to your coleslaw.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – this brings a zesty brightness that will elevate the slaw.
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard – a classic condiment that contributes to the bold flavors of your relish.
• ½ teaspoon sea salt – enhances all the flavors, making each bite pop.
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper – adds a subtle warmth that beautifully rounds out the dish.
These Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs with zesty relish and crunchy slaw are not just an upgrade; they’re an invitation to savor the grilling season!
How to Make Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs
-
Grill the Hot Dogs: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Place the beef hot dogs on the grill and cook them until they’re heated through and have a nice char, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Prepare the Relish: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped bell pepper, dill pickles, chopped onion, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, sea salt, and ground pepper. Stir until everything is well-coated and the flavors meld together.
-
Make the Coleslaw: In a separate bowl, toss the finely shredded green cabbage with a pinch of salt. Let it sit for a few minutes to release some moisture, then mix it with the relish for added crunch and flavor.
-
Assemble the Hot Dogs: Once your hot dogs are perfectly grilled, place each in a soft bun. Generously top them with the zesty relish mixture and finish with a scoop of crunchy slaw.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Helpful Tricks for Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs
• Even Cooking: Ensure your grill is preheated for consistent cooking; this way, your Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs will achieve a perfect char without drying out.
• Ideal Relish Texture: Chop the veggies finely to create a relish that’s easy to scoop and complements each bite of the hot dog without overpowering it.
• Prevent Bun Sogginess: Lightly toast the buns on the grill for a minute before assembling. This prevents them from becoming soggy with the relish and maintains their structure.
• Mix in Varieties: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite elements to the relish! Try incorporating ingredients such as jalapeños for a spicy kick or fresh herbs for an aromatic twist.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning of your relish and coleslaw as you mix. Tasting ensures balanced flavors, making your Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs an exceptional experience.
Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs Variations
Feel free to mix and match to make these delicious hot dogs your own, adding a personal touch to every bite!
-
Gluten-Free Buns: Swap regular buns with gluten-free alternatives to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Enjoying a perfectly grilled hot dog doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your dietary restrictions! -
Turkey Hot Dogs: Use turkey hot dogs for a leaner option that still delivers on taste and satisfaction.
These turkey options can be just as flavorful, offering a healthier twist to your favorite BBQ delight. -
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños to your relish for a fiery boost that ignites your taste buds.
Just a hint of spice can take your Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs to new heights, making them a crowd favorite! -
Smoky Flavor: Mix in some smoked paprika with your relish for a rich, smoky undertone.
This small addition will create layers of flavor that envelop every delicious hot dog bite. -
Herby Slaw: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the coleslaw for an herbal freshness.
A pop of green adds not just vibrant color but also elevates the overall flavor profile beautifully. -
Vegan Option: Replace hot dogs with grilled vegetables such as zucchini or portobello mushrooms for a hearty vegan alternative.
You won’t miss the meat with these flavorful options making every bite just as blissful. -
Sweet Slaw: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup to your coleslaw for a sweet contrast to the savory relish.
Sweetness balances out the tangy flavors remarkably, creating a delightful mix in every mouthful! -
Creamy Addition: Top with a dollop of mayo or avocado for a creamy finish that pairs perfectly with the relish.
This creates an irresistible richness that’s guaranteed to elevate your hot dog experience!
How to Store and Freeze Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs
Fridge: Store leftover Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them separate from the relish and slaw to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze the hot dogs alone for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for optimal storage.
Reheating: Thaw frozen hot dogs in the fridge overnight, then grill or microwave until heated through. Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy!
Coleslaw Storage: Store the coleslaw in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Mix it with the relish just before serving for that crunchy freshness.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs are perfect for meal prep, making busy weeknights so much easier! You can prepare the zesty relish and crunchy coleslaw up to 3 days in advance. Just mix the bell pepper, dill pickles, onion, apple cider vinegar, mustard, sea salt, and pepper for the relish, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The coleslaw can be prepped by tossing the cabbage with salt, letting it sit to release moisture, then mixing it with the relish just before serving to maintain its crunch. When you’re ready to grill, simply heat the hot dogs and assemble everything together for delicious, stress-free dining!
What to Serve with Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs?
Picture the joy of a sunny afternoon barbecue, with delicious treats gracing your table and laughter filling the air.
- Crispy French Fries: Tasty fries add a satisfying crunch and are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for dipping in ketchup or mayo.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad, with its cool texture and seasoned flavors, offers a delightful contrast to the grilled hot dogs.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky grilled corn brings a burst of summer freshness, making each bite of your hot dogs even more enjoyable.
- Refreshing Green Salad: A vibrant salad with mixed greens and citrus dressing lightens the meal while complementing the savory hot dogs with its zesty notes.
- Cold Beer: Pairing these hot dogs with a chilled beer enhances the traditional BBQ vibe, creating a satisfying and relaxed atmosphere.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: Cool, refreshing drinks like lemonade or iced tea balance the rich flavors of the hot dogs, making for a perfect warm-weather pairing.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, chewy cookies that bring a nostalgic touch, delighting guests of all ages.
- Fruit Kabobs: Colorful fruit skewers add a refreshing, juicy bite, pairing beautifully with the savory components of your hot dogs.
- Chili: A warm bowl of chili complements the hot dogs nicely, adding a hearty, comforting element that’s sure to please your family.
Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs with Zesty Relish and Crunchy Slaw Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for the relish?
Absolutely! When choosing bell peppers, look for firm ones with vibrant color and smooth skin. They should feel heavy for their size, indicating freshness. For the dill pickles, opt for ones that are crunchy and snap easily—these will bring the best texture to your relish.
How should I store leftover Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs?
For the best results, store leftover Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend keeping the hot dogs separate from the relish and slaw to preserve their freshness and texture. Just reheat on the grill or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I freeze the prepared hot dogs and toppings?
Absolutely! You can freeze the grilled hot dogs for up to 2 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag to keep air out. For the toppings, I suggest freezing the hot dogs without the relish and slaw. You can prepare these fresh later! Thaw the hot dogs in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my coleslaw becomes soggy after storage?
Very! If you notice the coleslaw getting soggy, it may be due to excess moisture from the cabbage or the toppings. To prevent this, store the coleslaw separately in an airtight container with a paper towel placed on the top to absorb moisture, and mix it with the relish just before serving for that perfect crunch.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
When it comes to dietary restrictions, always check for allergies with the ingredients. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free hot dog buns. If you have pet allergies, be cautious about how you store leftovers, ensuring they are out of reach from pets to avoid any mishaps.
What’s the ideal method for grilling the hot dogs?
Grilling is an art! Preheat your grill to a medium-high temperature. Place the beef hot dogs directly on the grill, and cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are heated through and have a perfect char. If you want that spiral shape, you can use a skewer to create grooves along the hot dogs before grilling. Enjoy the wonderful aroma that fills the air!
Spiral Grilled Hot Dogs with Zesty Relish and Crunchy Slaw
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the beef hot dogs until heated through and charred, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine chopped bell pepper, dill pickles, chopped onion, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, sea salt, and ground pepper. Stir to combine.
- In another bowl, toss shredded green cabbage with a pinch of salt. Let sit briefly, then mix with the relish.
- Assemble hot dogs in buns, top with the relish mixture and crunchy slaw.