Italian Dirty Dogs
The Italian Dirty Dog is a culinary upgrade of the classic hot dog. Not a standard sausage bun, but a flavor explosion that brings together the rich flavors of Italy. The hot dog is wrapped with crispy grilled pancetta and served on a hearty bun, richly topped with green pesto, spicy tomato sauce, juicy tomatoes, creamy burrata and Parmesan cheese. Fresh arugula, basil and a drizzle of balsamic cream finish it off. This luxurious hot dog is perfect for a summer BBQ with friends or as an impressive gourmet comfort food. Serve it with a fresh Italian potato salad or grilled vegetables for a complete experience in Il stile italiano.
View recipeFOR 4 PERSONS
Time: 20 min
Difficulty: easy
INGREDIENTS:
For the hot dogs:
- 4 fresh hot dogs (beef or pork, butcher quality)
- 8 slices of pancetta (or breakfast bacon as an alternative)
- 4 hearty hot dog buns (e.g., brioche, ciabatta buns or rustic buns)
Toppings:
- 100 g burrata (or mozzarella, tearable)
- 1 small red onion, sliced paper-thin
- 8-10 sun-dried tomatoes, in pieces
- 4 tbsp green pesto
- 4 tbsp. light tomato sauce (preferably homemade, spicy if you like)
- handful of fresh arugula
- fresh basil leaves
- shaved Parmesan cheese
- balsamic cream
Serving Tip:
Serve with a fresh Italian potato salad with capers and lemon, or grilled vegetables from the BBQ.
Preparation hot dogs
Wrap each fresh hot dog tightly in 2 slices of pancetta (overlapping diagonally).
Press lightly so they stay in place – secure with a skewer if necessary.
Let rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours so the pancetta forms around the sausage.
Barbecue
Light the BBQ and let it get well hot (direct heat zone).
Grill the pancetta hot dogs all around until tender and crispy in about 8-10 minutes, turning frequently for even cooking and color.
Preparation sandwiches
Slice the buns and toast briefly on the BBQ or grill pan for a slightly crispy edge.
Building up toppings
Spread the inside of each sandwich with a layer of tomato sauce and a spoonful of pesto.
Place some arugula on the bottom.
Place the grilled pancetta hot dog on top.
Roughly tear the burrata or mozzarella on top.
Divide sun-dried tomatoes, red onion and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Garnish with basil and a drizzle of balsamic cream.
*Serve with a fresh Italian potato salad with capers and lemon, or grilled vegetables from the BBQ.
