In my seven years of being a vegetarian, one of the main things I always missed was hot dogs. But if you’ve been a vegetarian, or ever tried subbing in plant based options you’d know that not all faux meats are created equal. And believe me, I’ve tried pretty much every one on the market so I consider myself an expert in this arena.
Lightlife Smart Dogs became my go-to brand ever since I discovered them years ago. In fact I love them so much even though I’m currently not a practicing vegetarian I still choose Smart Dogs over the “real” thing. So it was pretty much fate when the team reached out to partner on a recipe in time for Atlanta’s Peachtree Roadrace on July 4th.
The problem with some plant based “meats,” specifically hot dogs, is that they can taste rubbery. But not Lightlife. I swear, if I made you two identical dogs side by side you wouldn’t be able to tell which was plant based and which was not. Plus you’ll find comfort knowing Smart Dogs are Non-GMO, Project Verified, and are made with sustainable plant protein. Yes plants have protein people!!
Now, let’s talk today’s recipe! Lightlife Slaw Dogs. Grilled Smart Dogs topped with creamy and crisp homemade vegan coleslaw and spicy mustard. It’s the perfect summer bite all in one. And did I mention these Slaw Dogs are easier than easy to make?! One tip when it comes to grilling the perfect hot dog: cut them down the middle and grill the dog on each side that way, you’ll get that perfect grilled taste in every bite.
So that’s it; easy summer Slaw Dogs that you can feel good about and will please even the biggest skeptics…promise! Truly, MKR
P.S. As you probably know, the Peachtree Roadrace is a big thing here in Atlanta, about 60,000 people participate every year in the 10k race, and the streets are shut down for hours while the sea of crowds float through the city. This year, you can find Lightlife grilling up Smart Dogs on site, while also sharing protein-packed samples to fuel the runners before and after the race. Seriously, find these guys and tell them I sent you! xo
- pack of smart dogs (I like the jumbo)
- buns
- half a head of green cabbage, finely chopped
- half a head of purple cabbage, finely chopped
- 1-2 Granny Smith apples
- 3/4 cups Vegenaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, plus additional for topping
- 1-2 teaspoons sugar
- Make coleslaw: in a large mixing bowl, combine chopped cabbage, veganaise, dijon, 1 teaspoon of sugar and mix.
- Add additional teaspoon of sugar to mixture if you want a little more sweetness. Set aside. (Cole slaw can be made 1-2 days ahead of time.)
- Split the dogs down the center, grilling each on side until desired temperature. (I like mine a little charred.)
- Build your dogs: in bun, place your dog, coleslaw, garnish of dijon mustard and top with apples.
Not even kidding, I am seriously adding these to my grocery list! I love faux meats because they are good for the planet – and they are actually so much faster to cook than regular meat. 🙂