CELEBRATING AMERICA'S TABLE

FROM COOKOUT CLASSICS TO WHEAT HISTORY, THIS ISSUE HONORS THE FOODS AND TRADITIONS THAT BRING US TOGETHER

Welcome to the first issue of Flourish!

We’re so glad you’re here.

At the Oklahoma Wheat Commission, we believe good food brings people together. Whether it’s a backyard cookout, a holiday celebration or a simple weeknight dinner, meals shared around the table help create the moments and memories that matter most.

That’s what Flourish is all about — helping you cook, bake and eat well with recipes, practical nutrition information and helpful baking tips delivered straight to your inbox.

In this issue, we’re celebrating summer with crowd-pleasing recipes perfect for your Fourth of July and warm-weather gatherings. We’re also taking a look back at America’s rich food heritage as we honor 250 years of history, sharing how wheat has helped nourish generations of Americans. You’ll also find details about the upcoming Best of Wheat Bread Baking Contest, featuring this year’s Route 66 theme, plus a closer look at a question many consumers are asking: Do wheat foods cause inflammation?

We hope Flourish inspires you to gather, bake and savor the simple joy of sharing good food.

HAMBURGER BUNS

When hamburgers are the star of the show, homemade buns take your cookout from good to unforgettable.

FIRE UP THE GRILL

PRIMAVERA PASTA SALAD

Fresh vegetables, tender pasta and vibrant flavor come together in a dish that tastes like summer in every bite.

SAVE THIS RECIPE

HOMEMADE STRAWBERRY CAKE

With its beautiful rosy layers and fresh strawberry flavor, this homemade cake adds a festive pop of red to your Fourth of July dessert spread.

MAKE IT FOR THE FOURTH

HOMEMADE WAFFLE CONES

Few traditions say summer in America like homemade ice cream tucked into a crisp waffle cone made from scratch.

TRY THIS RECIPE

SUGAR COOKIE FRUIT FLAG PIZZA

Part cookie, part fruit pizza and all-American fun — this patriotic treat is sure to disappear fast.

GET THE RECIPE

AMERICA 250:

WHEAT IN AMERICA

From George Washington growing wheat at Mount Vernon to Oklahoma wheat helping feed American troops during World War I — when soldiers baked 36,000 pounds of flour each day — wheat has helped nourish our nation for generations.

As America celebrates 250 years of independence, explore our star-spangled timeline tracing wheat’s remarkable journey through U.S. history.

DOES WHEAT CAUSE INFLAMMATION?

Wheat has been a dietary staple for thousands of years, nourishing civilizations and shaping cultures. But in recent years, it’s faced increased scrutiny — particularly around whether it contributes to inflammation in the body. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should be cutting wheat out of your meals to reduce inflammation, you’re not alone. Let’s take a look at what the science actually says.

SAVE THE DATE

BEST OF WHEAT BREAD BAKING CONTEST

Sunday, Sept. 27

Oklahoma State Fairgrounds

Oklahoma City

Could your bread be featured on next year’s Best of Wheat cookbook cover?

The 2026 Best of Wheat Bread Baking Contest is taking inspiration from Route 66, America’s Mother Road. This year’s theme celebrates the nostalgia, color and character of Oklahoma’s famous roadside landmarks — from glowing neon signs to the Blue Whale, Pop’s and the Round Barn. When you design those specialty shapes or the presentation of your bread, think classic cars, Americana diners and vintage road-trip charm.

To advance to the state competition, participants must first qualify through their county fair. New this year, junior bakers will also have a dedicated whole wheat bread class.

See the rules and start planning your entry today.

VIEW THE COUNTY CONTEST RULES

VIEW THE STATE CONTEST RULES

OKLAHOMA WHEAT HARVEST — 2026

As wheat harvest winds up across Oklahoma, we want to say a heartfelt thanks to Oklahoma's wheat farmers who have worked hard to bring this year's crop home after months of planning, weather challenges and long days in the field.

Thanks to Tamela Wooderson for sending this photo!

Fun fact: A modern combine can harvest enough wheat in about nine minutes to make nearly 70 loaves of bread.

Oklahoma Wheat Commission | 8820 Silver Hill Dr | Oklahoma City, OK 73132 US

www.okwheat.org

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