Take 5: Cool Hot Dogs for Memorial Day

Soo-Jeong Kang
Whether you’re planning a killer cookout for Memorial Day or just a meal for your family, hot dogs are definitely one of the easiest crowd-pleasers to get on the grill. That said, we think it’s time to take things beyond ketchup and mustard. Make your franks extra special by dressing them up with these themed toppings.
The secret ingredient in Geoffrey Zakarian’s fancy dogs (served on a baguette, of course) is stout onion — onions cooked down and caramelized in stout beer. Top with pickled peppers and watercress for some GZ flair in your dish.

Hearst Communications Inc., 2010
For a hot dog that’ll really stick to your ribs, add bacon and beans, simmered in a sweet and tangy sauce of ketchup, brown sugar, mustard and vinegar.

Charles Masters
Feature fun Mexican-themed flavors in your franks with a topping of cotija cheese, avocado and chipotle mayonnaise.

Go above and beyond with Brooklyn’s Corniest Dogs, featuring layers of sweet, spicy and savory flavors with caramelized onions, caramelized corn, piri piri hot sauce and crispy bacon.

Hearst Communications Inc., 2010
Need to cool down? Bring seaside flavors to your grill with a refreshing pineapple salsa.