11 Healthy Sides for Burgers and Hot Dogs
Here are some favorite healthy side dishes for burgers and hot dogs. These sides are made using real food ingredients and help add balance to the main dish. Try one of these healthy sides at your next potluck, barbecue, or party.
Healthy Sides to Burgers & Hot Dogs
When it comes to serving burgers and hot dogs, having a few simple and healthy side dishes can help round out the meal.
The key is to keep it fresh, use seasonal ingredients when possible, and aim for sides that are easy to prepare ahead of time so you can enjoy more time outside with family and friends.
You may need to skip classic sides like macaroni salad for clean eating versions like quinoa salad, sweet potato fries, fruit salad, and other fresh salads.
And, if you are preparing food for friends or family with food allergies or sensitivities, always check ingredient labels and note which side dishes may contain common allergens. Also, if you have plant-based friends, you can try these Black Bean Burgers or Lentil Burgers for a meat-free main dish.
If you want recipes for burgers, try my Air Fryer Burgers, Air Fryer Frozen Burgers, or Turkey Burgers for good options.
Easy Carrot Cucumber Salad with Homemade Vinaigrette
Salads are a great way to get in your veggies, and this Carrot Cucumber Salad is no exception! It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for a summer day. Plus, it’s easy to make – just mix together some chopped cucumbers and carrots with a vinaigrette dressing and you’re good to go.
Costco Potato Salad (Copycat Reser’s Classic Recipe)
Here’s a great copycat recipe for the Reser’s brand of classic potato salad sold at Costco in large tubs. Skip the store-bought version and make your own using simple and wholesome ingredients.
Golden Beet Salad Recipe With Walnuts
This Golden Beet Salad recipe is a vibrant and nutritious dish that can be served in the winter or summer. It combines the earthy sweetness of golden beets with a range of fresh, flavorful ingredients.
Instant Pot Yellow Squash
This Instant Pot Yellow Squash and Tomatoes recipe is a fresh and delightful dish perfect for a light lunch or a side dish. It combines the flavors of tender yellow squash with the tanginess of tomatoes, and the Instant Pot makes it quick and easy!
Spicy Mexican Mashed Potatoes (Papas Con Chile)
These Mexican Mashed Potatoes are a comforting and flavorful twist on the traditional mashed potatoes we all know and love. Cooked potatoes get mixed together with chiles and taco seasoning for a mildly spicy and deeply satisfying side dish.
Gluten-Free Italian Pasta Salad (Vegetarian)
Looking for a delicious gluten-free pasta salad? Look no further than this amazing Italian version. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any summer gathering. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy it.
Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
Use your air fryer to quickly and efficiently make these delicious Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes. This classic American recipe is made a little lighter with dairy-free, vegan, and vegetarian options.
Erewhon Kale Salad
Make this delicious Erewhon Kale Salad recipe at home. This is a copycat recipe from the chic Los Angeles health food store that is a cult classic. Creamy white beans, avocado, and a lemony dressing elevate this kale salad to the next level.
Healthy Honey Mustard Salad Dressing
If you’re looking for a bright and flavorful homemade vinaigrette dressing, then you’re going to love this recipe for Honey Mustard Salad Dressing. It is sweet and tangy. Drizzle it over salad greens or roasted vegetables.
Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad (Copycat Recipe)
Here is a copycat recipe of the yummy Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch side salad. This simple recipe is healthy and delicious, and can be served with almost any main dish. Try it today!
Romaine Lettuce Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing
For an easy healthy side dish, you’re going to love this Romaine Salad Recipe with a Simple Vinaigrette Dressing. This recipe is gluten-free, vegan, and dairy-free.
Tips for Serving Burgers & Hot Dogs
- Choose quality proteins – Opt for grass-fed beef, turkey, chicken, or veggie-based patties; look for uncured or nitrate-free hot dogs.
- Serve in lettuce wraps – Skip the bun and use large romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb, fresh option.
- Use whole grain or gluten-free buns – If using bread, go for options with fewer ingredients and more fiber.
- Add colorful toppings – Load up with tomato slices, avocado, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, grilled onions, sauerkraut, pickles, or leafy greens for added texture and flavor.
- Make your own sauces – Try homemade ketchup or mustard with minimal sugar, or use plain Greek yogurt as a base for creamy sauces. Or, try creamy avocado as a topping.
- Offer veggie-packed sides – Balance the plate with fresh sides like cucumber salad, grilled veggies, or a fruit platter. I love making a refreshing salad as one of the best side dishes for burger night.
- Portion mindfully – Serve slider-sized burgers or cut hot dogs in half to encourage smaller portions, especially for kids.
FAQs
Try using large lettuce leaves, grilled portobello mushrooms, or a sturdy slice of sweet potato. Try these different ways of serving your ground beef burgers. You can also look for whole grain or gluten-free buns with minimal ingredients.
Choose high-quality, all-beef or turkey hot dogs that are uncured and nitrate-free. Add toppings like sauerkraut, mustard, or avocado instead of sugary ketchup or processed cheese.
Mix in moisture-boosting ingredients like grated zucchini, finely chopped mushrooms, or grated carrots to help keep patties juicy. You could also add black beans to help add fiber to your juicy burger.
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About the Author: Carrie Forrest has a master’s degree in public health with a specialty in nutrition and is a certified holistic nutritionist. She is a top wellness and food blogger with over 5 million annual visitors to her site. Carrie has an incredible story of recovery from chronic illness and is passionate about helping other women transform their health. Send her a message through her contact form.
