A Colorado tradition worth savoring
Every summer, Coloradans look forward to a familiar seasonal favorite: the first bite of fresh Olathe Sweet Corn. Grown in the Uncompahgre Valley on Colorado’s Western Slope, this iconic crop has become more than just a side dish at backyard barbecues and family gatherings. For generations, it has reflected the hard work of local farmers, a strong sense of community, and Colorado’s agricultural heritage.
For more than 40 years, Olathe Sweet Corn growers have worked to bring this crop from their fields to tables across the country. The region’s warm sunny days, cool mountain nights, and Rocky Mountain snowmelt create ideal growing conditions producing large ears of exceptionally sweet and tender corn. It’s a flavor that generations of Coloradans have come to know and look forward to year after year, yet given the harsh realities of farming in 2026, the Olathe Sweet Corn growers need our support more than ever to protect this treasured legacy.
It’s sweet and good for you
Some might be surprised to know that something so sweet and delicious can also be healthy! While its name may highlight its sweetness, Olathe Sweet Corn is also a nutritious addition to summer meals. As a whole food that’s naturally gluten-free, sweet corn provides complex carbohydrates that fuel busy summer days as well as fiber that helps slow the rise of our blood sugar. It’s also a good source of vitamin C, folate, and potassium, along with antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin (the reason corn is yellow), which support eye health and may reduce the risk of degenerative eye disease.
Sweet corn’s natural sweetness also makes it an easy way to add more vegetables to your plate. Pair it with grilled proteins, fresh salads, or other seasonal produce to create a colorful, balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Fresh ideas for summer meals
One of the best things about Olathe Sweet Corn is its versatility. Whether it’s grilled in the husk, boiled for a classic side dish, or roasted to bring out its natural sweetness, it fits summer and fall menus. Don’t worry, on those extra hot summer days, you don’t even need to cook it to eat it. Cooked or raw, you can toss it in your salads, mix it into salsa, stir it into pasta dishes, or blend it into soups for an extra burst of flavor. A family favorite of mine is this summer corn and tomato salad recipe, which is quick and easy to make, refreshing and flavorful on hot days, and very healthy.
Summer Corn and Tomato Salad
4 Servings
Ingredients:
2-3 cups raw or grilled corn kernels (from about 3 cobs)
2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered if large
4 green onion, thinly sliced
1 jalapeno, seeds removed, finely diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lime juice
1 garlic clove, pressed or minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup chopped fresh leafy herbs (such as cilantro, basil, mint, parsley, chives, dill, or a combination there
Steps:
- Place corn kernels, tomatoes, green onion, and jalapeno in a mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, add olive oil, vinegar or lime juice, garlic, and salt. Whisk to combine.
- Pour dressing over vegetable mixture and toss to coat.
- Add chopped herbs to salad and toss again.
Don’t Miss Olathe Sweet Corn Season
Like many of summer’s best foods, Olathe Sweet Corn is only available for a limited time. Harvest typically begins in mid-July and continues through early September, so shoppers are encouraged to enjoy it while it’s in season.
You can find Olathe Sweet Corn at many local grocery stores and farmers markets. Mountain Quality Farms supplies King Soopers, City Market, Sprouts and Whole Foods. The Tuxedo Corn Company offers direct sales to consumers. And if you’re in the area, stop by a local farm stand. However you choose to get yours, know that locally grown Olathe Sweet Corn helps sustain family farms and rural communities and contributes millions of dollars to the state’s economy. Every purchase helps preserve a tradition that has become part of Colorado’s identity.
As Colorado celebrates its rich agricultural heritage in honor of the state’s 150th anniversary, there’s no better time to enjoy one of the state’s most iconic seasonal traditions. Whether you’re planning a family barbecue, a picnic with friends, or a simple weeknight dinner, bringing home fresh Olathe Sweet Corn is a delicious way to celebrate the traditions that make Colorado unique. Every purchase also supports the local growers who have made this summertime favorite possible for generations.
This summer, savor the flavor of Olathe Sweet Corn!
Jessica Clifford, MS, RDN, is a Registered Dietician Nutritionist, Research Associate, and State Nutrition Specialist, with Colorado State University, College of Health and Human Sciences, and Colorado State University Extension.