Soon enough Memorial Day will be upon us. It’s time to honor those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice and enjoy some family time.

And family time ALWAYS includes food. It’s just a given.

My Memorial Day feast absolutely must include steaks, steakburgers, all-beef hot dogs and brats.

People will revolt if not.

But the variety of steaks is where I can get creative. I like to serve an array of meats from Filet Mignon and Kansas City Strip Steak to Wagyu Beef. Who could complain about that?

In my backyard, there’s always something for everyone. And that means everybody’s happy.

I can’t think of a better way to spend a holiday!

Today is National Hot Dog Day!

Let’s rejoice!

For funsies, our friends at the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council have created a rather serious hot dog etiquette guide. So let’s talk about some hot dog dos and don’ts on this very special day.

DO…

Eat a hot dog in a bun with your hands. This is a hands-only meal.

DON’T…

Put condiments between the dog and the bun — they should always go directly on the hot dog.

DO…

Use paper plates when serving hot dogs. Fine china? Uh, no.

DON’T…

Put ketchup on your dog after the age of 18. This is a hard and fast rule.

Want more hot dog etiquette? Check out this page and study up for your next cookout!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

One of the greatest things about beautiful weather is the ability to have COOKOUTS!

Next time you’re grilling up hot dogs, try a Cookout Condiment Bar to make it even more special.

Really make it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. It’s the secret all great restaurants know. 🙂

Separate all condiments into stainless steel or clear bowls – out of their original jars and squeeze bottles. Supply each bowl with an appropriately-sized serving spoon and line them up, preferably in a covered, shaded area.

Be sure to include all the traditional items like relish, mustard, ketchup, maybe onions, sauerkraut, and chili.

But why not add some non-traditional choices as well? Try including avocado, tomatoes, spicy condiments like sriracha, and then throw in a unique twist like sliced lemons. Have you ever squeezed lemon juice onto your hot dog? Try it! You might love it!

Have fun thinking up wild condiments that not only add flavor to your hot dogs, but color as well. A beautiful plate makes it taste that much better.

Be sure to start with all beef hot dogs (my must-have) and have fun with your own Cookout Condiment Bar!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.