Carrot Dog

I'm a huge fan of hot dogs, especially at backyard BBQs. Unfortunately, they're extremely unhealthy so it's very rare that I actually splurge and eat one. Having a healthier lifestyle doesn't mean you have to give up what you love, especially when there are so many creative ways to get the same great tasting flavor with healthier alternatives. I replaced a typical processed hot dog with a carrot. Yes, a carrot! It will taste nothing like you'll expect it to, meaning you'll be pleasantly surprised. Try this recipe for a guilt-free alternative to a hot dog and you'll never want to go back to processed meat again.

                

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees and wash and peel your carrots. Spray a baking sheet and the carrots with Pam and roast for 40 minutes, turning once halfway through. Take this time to prepare your marinade. Combine the water, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and spices in a bowl. Pour into a Ziploc bag and add your roasted carrots. Keep in the fridge to marinate for at least 3 hours.

                

To reheat, place the carrots with the marinade in a large pan on medium heat- you can also grill on medium heat for 5-10 minutes. Once the carrots are heated through, serve with a whole wheat bun, tortilla, or on a bed of lettuce. Another creative and healthy way to eat your carrot dog is by slicing it down the middle and filling it with your favorite toppings, like ketchup, mustard, sauerkraut, and onions. Serve with a side of veggies and enjoy!

                   

* I stuffed mine with sauteed onions, tomato, fresh basil, and some habanero pepper.

Makes 3 Servings

Recipe:

3 Whole Carrots, Washed and Peeled

1/4 Cup Water

1 Tbsp Less Sodium Soy Sauce

1/2 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar

1/4 Tsp Onion Powder

1/4 Tsp Ground Black Pepper

1/8 Tsp Cayenne Pepper

*Roast carrots at 425 degrees for 40 minutes, turning halfway through. Marinate for at least 3 hours.