A vegetable (yes, vegetable) that gets a bit of a bad rap. Is it a weed? Is it something your grandma made you eat? Is it… delicious?
The answer to that last one can be a resounding YES! If you know what to do with it.
We’ve gathered some truly crave-worthy rhubarb recipes, from the classics to the unexpected, plus four that will finally convert even the staunchest anti-rhubarb rebels in your life.
1. Classic Strawberry-Rhubarb Pie
Nothing beats the quintessential pairing of sweet strawberries with tart rhubarb under a flaky, golden crust. The contrast of flavors creates pure magic in your mouth!
Grandma’s secret? A pinch of cardamom alongside cinnamon to elevate the filling.
2. Tangy Rhubarb Compote
Forget store-bought jam! This ruby-red compote transforms morning toast into a gourmet experience.
Simply simmer chopped rhubarb with sugar, vanilla, and a splash of orange juice until soft. The resulting sweet-tart spread keeps for weeks in the fridge.
3. Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake
Gasp-worthy presentation meets heavenly taste in this showstopper dessert! Pink rhubarb slices caramelize in brown sugar at the bottom of your pan, then get flipped to reveal a stunning top.
The buttery cake beneath soaks up all those gorgeous juices.
4. Rhubarb-Ginger Jam
Spicy meets tangy in this preserve that’ll revolutionize your breakfast game. Fresh ginger adds zippy heat that perfectly complements rhubarb’s natural tartness.
The preserving process concentrates flavors into something magical. Slather it on scones, stir into oatmeal, or use as a glaze for roasted meats.
5. Rhubarb Crumble Bars
Portable pie? Yes please! These handheld treats feature a jammy rhubarb filling sandwiched between buttery oat crumble layers.
The contrast between the crisp topping and gooey center creates textural heaven. Pro tip: add chopped nuts to the crumble for extra crunch!
6. Roasted Rhubarb With Honey
Simplicity shines in this elegant treatment! Roasting transforms rhubarb into tender, caramelized perfection while honey tames its natural sourness.
Five minutes of prep yields a versatile ingredient. Serve warm over vanilla ice cream.
7. Rhubarb-Rosemary Cocktail
Happy hour just got an upgrade! This sophisticated sipper combines homemade rhubarb syrup with gin, fresh lime, and a whisper of rosemary.
The herbaceous notes perfectly balance rhubarb’s tartness. Your guests will beg for the recipe while reaching for seconds!
8. Rhubarb Custard Tart
Silky vanilla custard cradles vibrant pink rhubarb in this French-inspired masterpiece. The contrast between smooth, rich custard and tart fruit creates perfect harmony in every bite.
A buttery shortbread crust provides the ideal foundation. Finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving.
9. Sweet-And-Sour Rhubarb Chutney
Hold the phone – rhubarb isn’t just for dessert! This punchy chutney combines rhubarb with onions, raisins, and warm spices for a condiment that transforms ordinary meals.
Slather it on grilled cheese, serve alongside curry, or crown a cheese board.
10. Rhubarb-Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Churned dreams come true! This homemade frozen delight swirls rosy rhubarb compote through vanilla-flecked ice cream base for the ultimate summer cooler.
The tangy ribbons cut through creamy richness, creating perfect balance. Those little vanilla bean specks? Pure magic.
11. Rhubarb BBQ Sauce
Grilling game-changer alert! This unexpected sauce combines rhubarb’s natural tartness with smoky chipotle, molasses, and spices for a condiment that’ll revolutionize your cookouts.
Brush it on ribs, chicken, or portobello mushrooms during the last minutes of grilling.
12. Rhubarb-Almond Breakfast Cake
Morning glory in cake form! This tender, not-too-sweet breakfast treat features almond flour for protein and moisture, with ruby rhubarb pieces creating pockets of tangy brightness.
The crunchy almond topping adds textural contrast. Perfectly acceptable with coffee at 8am, yet indulgent enough for dessert.
13. Pickled Rhubarb Stalks
Pickle enthusiasts, prepare for obsession! These crunchy, tangy pickles maintain rhubarb’s signature texture while adding complex flavor from cider vinegar, pink peppercorns, and star anise.
The bright pink color alone makes them irresistible. Layer them on sandwiches, chop into salads, or serve alongside charcuterie.
14. Rhubarb-Cardamom Quick Bread
Banana bread, step aside! This aromatic loaf combines tart rhubarb chunks with fragrant cardamom for a spiced treat that’s perfect anytime.
The crackly sugar top gives way to moist, tender crumb studded with pink jewels. Toast a slice and slather with salted butter for pure comfort.
15. Rhubarb-Strawberry Fool
Whipped cream meets fruit in this cloud-like English dessert that comes together in minutes. Folding tart rhubarb compote into sweetened whipped cream creates mesmerizing pink swirls.
The contrast between silky cream and fruit creates pure textural bliss. You can garnish it with fresh mint for color pop!
16. Savory Rhubarb Lentil Stew
Rhubarb for dinner? Absolutely! This surprising stew uses rhubarb’s tartness to brighten earthy lentils and warm spices like cumin and coriander.
The result is deeply satisfying comfort food with bright notes. Even meat-lovers will request seconds of this hearty vegetarian main.
17. Rhubarb Cheesecake Bars
Cheesecake meets rhubarb in these irresistible handheld treats! A buttery graham crust supports tangy cream cheese filling, crowned with a stunning pink rhubarb topping.
The contrast between creamy filling and tart fruit creates flavor fireworks. Warning: they vanish quickly at potlucks!
18. Rhubarb-Thyme Shrub
Colonial-era drinking vinegar gets a modern makeover! This refreshing concentrate combines rhubarb, thyme, sugar, and apple cider vinegar for a sweet-tart flavor explosion.
Mix with sparkling water for an instantly sophisticated mocktail. Add gin or vodka for happy hour.