Hot canine are a barbecue staple and a nostalgic consolation food—however can they really be healthy? Traditional canine are sometimes high in energy, saturated fats, and sodium, however many trendy manufacturers now provide more healthy choices that pack in protein and taste whereas reducing again on extra fats and sodium. When paired with a healthy carb, the healthiest scorching canine could be a fantastic addition to any meal plan in case you want one thing fast and on-the-go, however don’t need to settle for a quick food burger or gasoline station beef jerky.
Whether you are on a weight-loss journey, however nonetheless need to take pleasure in your favourite deal with, or do not need to skip out on a ballpark favourite the subsequent time you are internet hosting, here is a have a look at among the healthiest scorching canine in the marketplace and tips on find out how to pair them for a balanced meal.
Related: Best Healthy Bagels You Can Buy If You’re Choosy About Carbs
Are Hot Dogs Healthy?
Traditional scorching canine are sometimes high in fats, sodium, and preservatives. However, more healthy variations made with lean meats, decrease salt, natural components, or plant-based options present a extra nutritious possibility. The key to creating scorching canine more healthy is selecting manufacturers which might be decrease in saturated fats and sodium and pairing them with entire grains, recent greens, and nutrient-dense toppings to make a balanced meal.
While trendy manufacturers have made scorching canine a little bit simpler to abdomen, I nonetheless wouldn’t add them to your weekly meal prep. Although the occasional scorching canine received’t make or break your health, it’s what I wish to name a “sometimes food.” If you are trying to higher your health within the new yr avoiding processed meats on the whole is your finest guess.
Related: 20 Best Hot Dogs in America
9 Healthiest Hot Dogs, According to a Dietitian
1. Teton Waters Ranch Grass-Fed Beef Hot Dogs
Courtesy of Teton Waters Ranch
Teton Ranch hot dogs are produced from one hundred pc grass-fed beef, giving them a richer taste and better omega-3 content material in comparison with conventionally raised beef. With solely 110 energy and three.5g of saturated fats, these scorching canine are a strong selection for a more healthy barbecue. Pair them with whole-grain buns and a facet of leafy greens for a balanced meal.
Nutrition Facts, Per Serving
- Calories: 110
- Carbs: 0 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
2. Sabrett Skinless Beef Frankfurters
Courtesy of Sabrett
Sabrett’s Skinless Beef Frankfurters are identified for his or her iconic, daring taste. While barely larger in fats than conventional canine, they’re made with high-quality beef and haven’t any added carbs or sugar. Top with sautéed onions and mustard on a whole-grain bun for a traditional deal with.
Nutrition Facts, Per Serving
- Calories: 150
- Carbs: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
3. Lightlife Smart Dogs
Courtesy of Lightlife
Lightlife Smart Dogs are a plant-based possibility with solely 60 energy and no saturated fats, making them a heart-friendly different. “That’s a big difference compared to traditional hot dogs, which pack around 10 grams of fat and 3 grams of saturated fat,” provides Lindsay Cohen, RDN, LDN, CDCES, proprietor of Mama-Betes.
With 8 grams of protein, they’re good for vegetarians or these trying to in the reduction of on meat. Add some shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and a drizzle of tahini for a vibrant, veggie-packed meal.
Nutrition Facts, Per Serving
- Calories: 60
- Carbs: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
4. Hebrew National All Natural Uncured Beef Franks
Courtesy of Hebrew National
Hebrew National All Natural Uncured Beef Franks are made with one hundred pc kosher beef and no synthetic nitrates or nitrites. They’re flavorful and satisfying, with barely decrease fats than conventional scorching canine. Pair these with recent coleslaw and a dollop of Dijon mustard for a scrumptious, balanced plate.
Nutrition Facts, Per Serving
- Calories: 140
- Carbs: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Sodium: 430 mg
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
5. Ball Park White Meat Smoked Turkey Franks
Courtesy of Ball Park
Ball Park White Meat Smoked Turkey Franks are a leaner scorching canine possibility, with out fats and solely 45 energy per serving resulting from being sourced from poultry. Despite being low in fats, they’re full of taste and pair nicely with roasted veggies or a recent cucumber salad.
Nutrition Facts, Per Serving
- Calories: 45
- Carbs: 5 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 430 mg
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
Related: You’re Sleeping on Canned Chicken. These Are the Best Brands to Hit Your Protein Quota
6. Applegate Naturals Beef Hot Dogs
Courtesy of Applegate
Applegate Naturals Beef Hot Dogs are made with one hundred pc grass-fed beef and comprise no added sugar or synthetic components. Their decrease sodium content material makes them a more sensible choice for these watching their salt consumption. Pair with a whole-grain bun and a facet of roasted candy potatoes for a filling and nutrient-rich meal.
“Applegate also has organic versions of their beef and turkey dogs that are antibiotic- and growth hormone-free, and were fed organic feed, which reduces your exposure to these substances,” says Michelle Rauch MSc RDN, who serves as a nutritionist for The Actors’ Fund Home.
Nutrition Facts, Per Serving
- Calories: 100
- Carbs: 0 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
7. Nature’s Promise Beef Hot Dogs
Courtesy of Nature’s Promise
(*9*) provide a easy ingredient checklist with natural beef and no synthetic preservatives. With reasonable energy and sodium, they’re a tasty possibility for grilling. Add a facet of grilled zucchini or a light-weight quinoa salad for a balanced plate.
Nutrition Facts, Per Serving
- Calories: 120
- Carbs: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
8. MorningStar Farms Veggie Dogs
Courtesy of MorningStar
MorningStar Farms Veggie Dogs are a low-fat, high-protein possibility that’s good for vegetarians. “Each serving contains only 60 calories with no saturated fat, making it a heart-friendly choice. Enjoy these hot dogs grilled, pan-fried, or steamed, and load it up with your favorite toppings like mustard, ketchup, pickles, or sautéed onions for a personalized meal,” says Juliana Crimi, RD, MHSc.
Nutrition Facts, Per Serving
- Calories: 60
- Carbs: 5 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
9. Organic Valley Uncured Beef Hot Dogs
Courtesy of Organic Valley
Organic Valley makes use of natural, grass-fed beef to create a high-quality scorching canine with balanced fats and sodium ranges. These scorching canine are satisfying and flavorful. Serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or a light-weight potato salad for a healthful and filling meal.
Nutrition Facts, Per Serving
- Calories: 130
- Carbs: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
How to Build a Balanced Hot Dog
While a scorching canine by itself would not precisely scream “perfect meal,” when mixed with different components it may be satisfying and balanced.
- Choose Whole-Grain Buns: Add fiber and vitamins to your meal by skipping the easy white carbs. Instead, go for a whole-grain bun that provides extra fiber, nutritional vitamins, and minerals.
- Pile on Veggies: Load up with toppings like onions, peppers, tomatoes, and shredded lettuce for a lift of nutritional vitamins.
- Pair with Healthy Sides: Serve your scorching canine with recent fruit, a inexperienced salad, or roasted greens for an entire and balanced plate.
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