10 Simple Rhubarb Recipes that Hit the Spot

Each spring, one unique and often under-appreciated gem stands out in the world of seasonal produce: rhubarb. With its striking ruby-red stalks and tangy flavor, rhubarb not only adds a burst of color to your plate but also offers a myriad of health benefits.

We’re guiding you through the best ways to prepare and enjoy this delightful springtime ingredient and sharing 10 of our favorite simple rhubarb recipes.

5 Health Benefits of Rhubarb

Rhubarb might appear to be a humble plant, but beneath its crimson exterior lies a treasure trove of nutrients. Incorporating rhubarb into your diet not only adds a burst of flavor but also brings along a host of health benefits. Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, rhubarb can be a valuable addition to your diet. Here are 5 of the key health benefits of rhubarb:

1. Vitamin K – Rhubarb is a fantastic source of vitamin K, a nutrient essential for proper blood clotting and bone health. Just one cup of cooked rhubarb provides a significant portion of your daily vitamin K needs.
2. Vitamin C – Known for its immune-boosting properties, vitamin C is abundant in rhubarb. This antioxidant vitamin helps protect cells from damage, aids in collagen synthesis, and supports overall skin health.
3. Fiber – Rhubarb is a great source of dietary fiber, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber can help prevent constipation, promote satiety, and regulate blood sugar levels.
4. Antioxidants – The vibrant color of rhubarb stalks is indicative of the presence of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins. These compounds have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases and may have anti-inflammatory effects.
5. Calcium and magnesium – These minerals are essential for maintaining strong bones and proper muscle function. Incorporating rhubarb into your diet can contribute to your daily intake of these important nutrients.

How to Prepare Rhubarb

Rhubarb truly deserves a place on your plate. And while it might seem intimidating to prepare due to its tartness, with a few simple steps, you can transform it into a versatile and delicious ingredient for both sweet and savory dishes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing rhubarb:

1. Selection and cleaning – Choose firm, crisp stalks with good color. Avoid stalks that are soft, wilted, or have blemishes. Rinse the stalks thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
2. Trimming – Cut off and discard the leaves. Rhubarb leaves contain a toxic compound called oxalic acid and should not be consumed.
3. Peeling (optional) – While the skin is edible, some prefer to peel the outer layer of larger stalks to reduce the tartness.
4. Slicing – Cut the stalks into the desired size for your recipe. Remember that rhubarb shrinks during cooking, so adjust the size accordingly.
5. Cooking – Rhubarb can be stewed, baked, roasted, or used in a variety of recipes. When cooking, it’s often paired with sweeteners like sugar or honey to balance its tartness. If you’re stewing rhubarb, place the slices in a pot with a bit of water and sugar, then cook over medium heat until the rhubarb softens and breaks down. If you’re baking or roasting, toss the rhubarb with sugar and roast it in the oven for a caramelized flavor and tender texture.

10 Rhubarb Recipes that Hit the Spot

Rhubarb is popularly used in pies, crisps, and crumbles for a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. It can also be incorporated into compotes, jams, sauces, and even cocktails. For a savory twist, consider adding rhubarb to salads or using it as a tangy accompaniment to meats like pork or chicken.

As you explore these simple rhubarb recipes, remember to get creative. Mix rhubarb with other fruits like strawberries or oranges to create delicious flavor combinations. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different cooking methods to find your favorite way to enjoy this springtime delight.

1. Straight-Up Rhubarb Pie | NYT Cooking – This pie doesn’t need strawberries to be sweet. Using shortening instead of butter gives it an ‘American style’ crust.
2. Rhubarb Ice Cream | Bakes by Brown Sugar – Tart and creamy, this rhubarb ice cream is bursting with flavor. For the best results, make sure to thoroughly chill the custard before you churn it.
3. Rhubarb Muffins with Streusel | A Couple Cooks – These light and fluffy rhubarb muffins are simply delicious. Fill every other cup in your muffin tin to help them bake evenly and give them a perfectly-domed top.
4. Quick and Easy Rhubarb Chutney | The Spruce Eats – There’s no need to follow a complicated canning recipe. You can make your own rhubarb chutney quickly and easily in a small batch.
5. Rhubarb Upside Down Cake | Spend with Pennies – Who needs pineapple for an upside-down cake when rhubarb is just as delicious? Achieve the perfect balance of sweet and tart by mixing the rhubarb with sugar and butter.
6. Strawberry-Rhubarb Stuffed French Toast | Completely Delicious – Strawberries and rhubarb make a truly unique French toast. Keep the bread from getting soggy by buttering the insides of the bread.
7. Honey Rhubarb Chicken | The Endless Meal – Rhubarb is just as delicious in a savory dish. Tender chicken is covered in a sauce made with ginger, soy sauce, honey, onion, garlic, and of course, rhubarb.
8. Rhubarb Sorbet | Simply Recipes – Fresh rhubarb gives this sorbet its vibrant pink color. And it’s the perfect base for making popsicles. Simply add the finished sorbet to popsicle molds.
9. Perfectly Sweet & Tart Rhubarb Sauce | Heartbeet Kitchen – Hints of vanilla bean and orange make this sauce extra special. Get a perfectly smooth texture for your toast or ice cream by mixing until smooth in a high-speed blender.
10. Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp | Once Upon a Chef – This crisp is easily one of the most delicious ways to enjoy rhubarb. To get the best possible results, make sure the ratio of rhubarb to strawberries is the same.

Now that you’re well-versed in its nutritional benefits and culinary versatility, it’s time to savor its goodness by trying these 10 simple rhubarb recipes. Whether you’re baking a luscious rhubarb pie to share with loved ones or stirring up a batch of rhubarb chutney to accompany a savory dish, this springtime gem is sure to delight your taste buds and nourish your body.

This post contains affiliate links. 

If you enjoyed this list of simple rhubarb recipes, please share it on Pinterest!

And if you’re looking for more tasty and healthy recipes, please follow our Food board!