Healthy Sides for Burgers and Hot Dogs – 15 Best Ideas

Burgers and hotdogs are classic comfort foods that many of us crave, especially during outdoor gatherings and summer cookouts. If you’re looking for healthy sides for burgers and hotdogs, I’ve got a list of 15 healthy options for you!

It’s easy to balance out your burger or hotdog with some tasty and nutritious side dishes. Take a break from that classic burger side like french fries or potato salad and try some of these best side dishes for a healthy addition to your summer cookout! You’ll probably find a few new favorite things to eat from this list!

1. Grilled Corn on the Cob

Charred to perfection and seasoned with a touch of butter and your favorite herbs, grilled fresh corn is a fantastic complement to any barbecue meal. 

2. Cucumber Salad 

Light, refreshing, and a breeze to prepare, a cucumber salad with red onion and dill will provide a satisfying crunch.

3. Sweet Potato Fries  

Swap regular fries for these crispy, oven-baked sweet potato fries that are not only healthier but also bursting with flavor so they make a winning combination for burger and hot dog night. Sweet potatoes are a great option for making classic sides with a healthier twist. 

4. Quinoa Salad 

Packed with protein and fiber, a quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty dressing adds a delightful touch of sophistication to your meal. This salad is great paired with turkey burgers. 

5. Grilled Pineapple

A slice of grilled pineapple is a delicious side dish and it can add a touch of tropical sweetness to your burger or hotdog. You can have it on the side or even as a burger topping. 

6. Cauliflower Buffalo Bites

This is definitely not a classic side dish, but these have gained popularity with people looking for healthier options. Satisfy your craving for spicy flavors with cauliflower buffalo bites. They’re a great alternative to traditional spicy chicken wings.

7. Grilled Zucchini  

Lightly seasoned and grilled, zucchini provides a delicious, low-calorie side dish that’s rich in vitamins. Easy sides like grilled veggies are one of the best sides you can make for a cookout!

8. Watermelon Salad  

Stay refreshed with a watermelon fruit salad featuring feta cheese, mint, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. This great side dish is healthy and a true taste of summer.

9. Kale Chips  

A nutritious alternative to traditional potato chips, kale chips are a crispy, guilt-free snack that you can munch on alongside your meal. This great option is super light and the perfect side dish for keeping the calories low on burger night. 

10. Broccoli Slaw 

Swap out traditional creamy coleslaw for a healthier broccoli slaw with a creamy Greek yogurt dressing and red onions for a satisfying crunch. The whole family will love this traditional coleslaw swap!

11. Caprese Skewers  

Fresh mozzarella and basil leaves on skewers with tomatoes, melon or blueberries and drizzled with balsamic glaze create a tasty and elegant side dish. We have a fun blueberry caprese skewer recipe that would be a great side as well!

12. Mushroom Kabobs  

Marinated and grilled mushrooms offer a meaty umami flavor that’s perfect for burger lovers. You can eat these on the side or use them as toppings. 

13. Spinach and Strawberry Salad

Sweet strawberries, crunchy almonds, and a light vinaigrette dressing make this salad a perfect match for your grilled favorites. This is a great addition to a summery meal like a hot dog or juicy burger. 

14. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus  

A colorful, savory dip that pairs well with fresh veggies or whole-grain pita bread, roasted red pepper hummus is a healthy choice. Veggies like green peppers and baby carrots are perfect for dipping either as a side or an appetizer for your main course. 

15. Pasta Primavera

Pasta primavera with loads of veggies is a great and filling side dish for your hamburgers or hot dogs and a healthy alternative to heavier sides like macaroni salad.

Remember, while enjoying these healthy sides, you can also opt for leaner burger or hotdog options, such as turkey or a veggie burger, to make your meal even more balanced. Additionally, don’t forget to go easy on the condiments. Consider lighter options like tzatziki sauce instead of pimento cheese and other heavier toppings and consider whole-grain buns for an extra dose of nutrition.

So, the next time you’re grilling up some burgers and hotdogs, mix and match these sides to create a well-rounded, delicious, and guilt-free meal that both your taste buds and your body will thank you for.