Summer Sides Made Simple: 3 Easy Recipes to Pair with Your Favorite Tootie Pies

Summer is here, and that means it's time for barbecues, picnics, and all sorts of outdoor gatherings! But with busy schedules and a million things to do, who has time for complicated side dishes?

That's where Tootie Pie comes in. We believe in delicious food that's easy to make and even easier to enjoy. So we've put together three simple side dish recipes that pair perfectly with our All-American summer pie lineup. These recipes are quick, easy, and require minimal ingredients, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the sunshine with your loved ones.

1. Easy Apple Pecan Salad:

This refreshing salad is a perfect complement to our Apple Crumb Pie. The sweetness of the apples and the crunch of the pecans echo the pie's flavors, while the goat cheese and vinaigrette add a tangy touch.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed greens
• 2 apples, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/2 cup candied pecans
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, apples, goat cheese, and pecans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.

2. Grilled Chicken Wings with Cherry BBQ Glaze

This sweet and smoky twist on classic BBQ chicken wings is the perfect complement to Tootie Pie's Cherry Pie. The sticky cherry glaze adds a burst of flavor that's both tangy and delicious, making these wings a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish for any barbecue or summer gathering..

Ingredients:

1. 2 pounds frozen chicken wings, thawed
2. 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
3. 1/4 cup cherry jam
4. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
5. 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
6. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the BBQ sauce, cherry jam, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly. Set aside.
2. Preheat your grill to medium heat. If using a charcoal grill, prepare a two-zone fire with one side for direct heat and the other for indirect heat.
3. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the Wings:
• Direct Heat: Place the wings over direct heat and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and the skin begins to crisp.
• Indirect Heat: Move the wings to indirect heat and continue cooking for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the wings generously with the cherry BBQ glaze. Turn the wings frequently to ensure even coating and caramelization.
6. Remove the wings from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with additional cherry BBQ glaze on the side for dipping.

3. Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon with Rhubarb Drizzle:

This elegant appetizer is a perfect pairing for our Strawberry Rhubarb Pie. The salty prosciutto and sweet melon create a delicious contrast, while the rhubarb drizzle adds a tangy twist.

Ingredients:

• 1 cantaloupe, sliced
• 8 slices prosciutto
• 1/2 cup chopped rhubarb
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the rhubarb, sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer and cook until the rhubarb is soft and the mixture has thickened, about 10 minutes. Let cool.
2. Wrap each melon slice with a slice of prosciutto.
3. Drizzle with the rhubarb sauce and serve.

We hope these simple and delicious recipes help you make the most of your summer parties. Don't forget to pair them with your favorite Tootie Pie for a truly unforgettable meal!