1. Watermelons: Oklahoma is known for its delicious watermelons, which are usually at their peak during the summer. Oklahomans enjoy eating fresh, juicy watermelon slices as a refreshing snack or dessert.
2. Peaches and Cream Corn: This is a popular side dish that combines sweet peaches, fresh corn, and a creamy sauce. It's a staple at many summer picnics and cookouts in Oklahoma.
3. Fried Okra: Okra is a common vegetable in Oklahoma, and it's often served fried as a side dish or appetizer during the summer.
4. Frito Pie: This dish consists of Fritos corn chips topped with chili, shredded cheese, onions, and tomatoes. It's a hearty and satisfying summer meal.
5. Ice Cream: Oklahoma has hot summers, so ice cream is a popular treat to cool down. Local ice cream shops and chains offer a variety of flavors, including favorites like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry.
6. Barbecue: Oklahoma has a strong barbecue culture, and summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill. Oklahomans enjoy cooking and eating barbecued meats, such as ribs, brisket, and chicken.
7. Fresh Vegetables: Oklahoma's farmers markets and grocery stores offer an abundance of fresh vegetables during the summer, including tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and zucchini. Oklahomans enjoy incorporating these fresh veggies into salads, stir-fries, and other dishes.
8. Homemade Pies and Cobblers: Summer is the season for fresh fruits, and Oklahomans love making homemade pies and cobblers using seasonal fruits like peaches, blackberries, and apricots.
9. Snow Cones: Snow cones are a popular treat on hot summer days. These crushed ice desserts come in various flavors and are topped with sweet syrup.
10. Sweet Tea: Iced tea is a refreshing beverage enjoyed by many Oklahomans, and it's often sweetened with sugar or flavored with lemon or peach during the summer.
These are just a few examples of the many foods that people from Oklahoma enjoy eating during the summer. The state's culinary scene is influenced by its agricultural heritage, Southern roots, and diverse cultural influences, making for a delicious and varied cuisine.