The Best Simple Sides for Hot Dogs (Besides Potato Chips) (2024)

I'm an enthusiast and an expert in the realm of culinary arts, particularly when it comes to grilling and creating delectable sides for various dishes. With a deep understanding of flavors, cooking techniques, and a passion for exploring diverse recipes, I'm here to guide you through the world of perfect side dishes for hot dogs.

Now, let's delve into the concepts used in the provided article, breaking down the key elements:

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Calamansi Mayo:

   • This dish involves grilling corn on the cob and elevating it with a unique twist – a creamy, cheesy calamansi mayonnaise. The choice of calamansi adds a tangy and citrusy flavor, complementing the sweetness of the corn. This side is a testament to the art of combining contrasting flavors for a harmonious culinary experience.

2. Smoky Coleslaw:

   • Coleslaw, a classic barbecue side, is given a smoky twist in this recipe. The use of chipotle and smoked paprika imparts a bold and smoky flavor, while brown mustard adds a hint of spice. This adaptation showcases the versatility of traditional dishes by incorporating innovative flavor profiles.

3. Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables, Parsley, and Feta:

   • This vegetarian dish features grilled asparagus, zucchini, and eggplant in a pasta salad. The grilling process enhances the vegetables' flavors, and the combination with pasta, parsley, and feta creates a wholesome and satisfying side dish. It demonstrates the art of balancing textures and flavors in a single dish.

4. Classic Potato Salad:

   • Utilizing baby potatoes with a naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture, this classic potato salad is a quick and excellent side dish. The recipe emphasizes the importance of choosing the right ingredients to achieve a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

5. Gina Mae's Baked Beans:

   • Baked beans take center stage with a unique touch in this recipe, personalized by Scholar Regina Bradley. The introduction of special touches showcases the significance of family recipes and the cultural aspect of cooking. It emphasizes the idea that a cookout is not just about the main dish but also about the sides and the stories behind them.

6. Homemade Veggie Chips:

   • Turning vegetable scraps into crunchy chips with olive oil and seasoning in just 20 minutes is a testament to creativity and reducing food waste. This recipe provides a practical and flavorful solution for utilizing vegetable scraps, adding a crunchy texture element to the overall meal.

7. Tomato Salad with Red Onion, Dill, and Feta:

   • A simple yet herb-packed tomato salad serves as the perfect partner for smoky and savory hot dogs. This side dish highlights the importance of freshness and simplicity in enhancing the overall dining experience.

8. Crispy Baked Zucchini Fries:

   • These zucchini fries are coated with a panko-and-Parmesan coating, achieving crispiness through a quick broiling process. The recipe showcases a creative take on incorporating vegetables into a snackable form, perfect for dipping.

9. Kwame's Waffle Fries:

   • Chef Kwame Onwuachi's waffle fries, coated with berbere salt, introduce an Ethiopian spice blend to the fried spuds. This unique fusion of flavors demonstrates the art of global culinary influences, adding a citrusy sweet heat to a classic side dish.

In summary, the article celebrates the art of pairing hot dogs with sides that go beyond the ordinary, showcasing creativity, cultural influences, and a deep understanding of flavor combinations in the world of culinary arts.