Summer is often an opportunity to gather with friends and enjoy the weather. But let’s face it there are so many obstacles to pulling off the perfect gathering. No one wants to go through all the time and effort it takes to pull together a party and have it fall flat because of one forgotten detail.

This is why we love to serve a “bar” when we have guests over, and honestly, even if it’s just family. It’s quick and easy, and everyone is pleased because they can create what they like.

The Hot Dog Bar is easy enough that it can be served to family during the week, but nice enough you will feel good about serving it to your guests. July is National Hot Dog Month, so what better way to celebrate!

We always start with a good quality hot dog, preferably an organic hot dog. We like them either grilled or steamed.

To grill the perfect hot dog – heat grill to medium heat around 350 degrees, for the perfect grill marks place hot dogs at an angle across grate, grill for 8-10 minutes rolling hot dogs every couple minutes to complete the grill marks around the hot dogs.

To steam the perfect hot dog – place the hot dogs in a large skillet and add about 1/2 cup of water and steam them. Then drain the water and brown the hot dogs. This whole process takes about 10 minutes.  Steaming the hot dogs before browning gives them a crisp outside and juicy center.

Then the fun begins – the toppings. The options are endless, here is what we like…

• Condiments – Wild Oats Marketplace Organic Tomato Ketchup, Steak Sauce, Ranch Dressing and Wild Oats Marketplace Buffalo Wing Sauce
• Wild Oats Marketplace Organic Whole Kernel Corn, drained well
• Wild Oats Marketplace Organic Black Beans
• Sweet Pickle Relish
• Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Cheese, shredded
• French Fried Onions
• Fresh Tomatoes, sliced thinly
• Mild Banana Pepper Rings

Whether you are hosting a Summer cookout, party or perhaps taking a picnic for National Picnic Month, I’m confident you and your family will enjoy the Hot Dog Bar.