Cheesy Hot Dog

Peel the onion and finely chop it. Cut the pickled cucumbers lengthwise into thin slices.

Split the buns lengthwise, but don't cut all the way through so they hold together as a pocket for the sausage.

Bring water to a boil in a pot, reduce to a gentle simmer, and add the sausages. Gently heat them 5-7 minutes to prevent splitting.

Melt a knob of butter in a pan and briefly toast the split buns cut-side down until golden, 1-2 minutes.

Place the hot sausage into the toasted bun, add a slice of cheddar, and cover the pan with a lid for 1 minute to let the cheese gently melt.

Sprinkle the hot dogs with chopped onion, optionally add slices of pickled cucumber, and season with ketchup or mustard to taste.

Serve immediately and sprinkle with chopped chives for a fresh color and aroma.