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Savory Grilled Hot Dogs with Easy Homemade Zesty Pickle Relish

savory grilled hot dogs - featured image

This recipe features juicy grilled hot dogs topped with a fresh, tangy homemade zesty pickle relish that adds a perfect crunch and zing, ideal for summer cookouts and casual dinners.

Ingredients

  • Hot dogs (beef, pork, or plant-based)
  • Hot dog buns (soft, fresh, or gluten-free if desired)
  • Dill pickles, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • Seedless cucumber, diced small (about 1/2 cup)
  • Red onion, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
  • Yellow mustard seeds, 1 teaspoon
  • Apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons
  • Fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon
  • Granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh dill, chopped, 1 tablespoon (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine diced dill pickles, cucumber, and red onion. Sprinkle in the yellow mustard seeds.
  2. Add apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  3. Fold in fresh chopped dill if using. Cover and chill the relish in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to meld flavors.
  4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  5. Place the hot dogs on the grill, turning every 2-3 minutes until grill marks appear and hot dogs are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside, about 8-10 minutes.
  6. Toast the buns cut-side down on the grill for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
  7. Assemble each hot dog in a bun and spoon generous amounts of the zesty pickle relish on top. Add mustard or ketchup if desired.

Notes

If relish seems watery after chilling, drain excess liquid to avoid soggy buns. Toast buns quickly to keep them sturdy but soft. The relish can be made a day ahead to deepen flavors and stored in the fridge up to a week. For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the relish.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled hot dogs, pickle relish, homemade relish, summer cookout, easy hot dog recipe, zesty relish, backyard barbecue