The hot dog is sometimes seen as the lowly, step-child to a successful barbecue. But, why? I love a good hot dog, mostly because you can dress it up any way you like, or keep it simple with a squirt of mustard or (gulp) ketchup. We have the ability to treat the hot dog like a star, so let’s do it! For the next few days, we’ll be featuring the hot dog in a series of recipes. July is National Hot Dog Month, so why not celebrate it with a week of awesome hot dog ideas? First up, Caprese hot dogs. Yup, that’s right.
I had to combine one of my favorite italian dishes with my favorite tubular meat product. The snap of the beef hot dog blends perfectly with the creaminess of the mozzarella and the freshness of the basil and tomatoes. The balsamic drizzle gives just enough sweet and sour to the whole ensemble. I could eat these all summer, and I just might. Check out this easy recipe below.
Caprese Hot Dogs
Ingredients:
Grilled hot dogs (we always do all-beef kosher dogs)
Hot dog rolls
Sliced fresh mozzarella
Sliced tomatoes
Basil leaves
Balsamic drizzle (see recipe below)
Instructions:
Place hot dogs on the grill and cook until warmed through and crispy.
Place half a cup of balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan, put on low heat on the stovetop (or on indirect heat on the grill). Reduce for 5 to 10 minutes, or until thick enough for drizzling.
Alternate sliced mozzarella, tomato and basil onto hot dog rolls.
Place cooked hot dogs on rolls.
Drizzle hot dogs and accoutrement with balsamic deliciousness.
Serve immediately.
