🍓 15 Delicious Rhubarb Recipes to Try This Summer (Sweet & Savory!)

Move over strawberries—rhubarb is stealing the show this season! With its tart, punchy flavor and vibrant pink hue, this humble stalk is making a major comeback in kitchens everywhere. Whether you’re new to rhubarb or a longtime fan, we’ve rounded up the 15 best rhubarb recipes you absolutely need to try this summer.

From classic pies to unexpected savory pairings, there’s something here for every taste.

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🌿 What Is Rhubarb, Anyway?

Rhubarb is a vegetable (yep, not a fruit!) known for its tart, sour flavor and bright red stalks. It’s typically sweetened and used in desserts, but modern foodies are also embracing rhubarb in sauces, cocktails, and savory dishes.

Pro tip: Only the stalks are edible—rhubarb leaves are toxic and should always be discarded.

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🍰 SWEET RHUBARB RECIPES

1. Classic Rhubarb Pie

A flaky crust filled with a mix of rhubarb, sugar, and a hint of cinnamon. Serve with vanilla ice cream.

2. Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble

A timeless combo—juicy strawberries balance the rhubarb’s tartness, topped with a golden oat-butter crumble.

3. Rhubarb Upside-Down Cake

Think pineapple upside-down cake, but fresher and tangier.

4. Rhubarb Custard Bars

Creamy, tangy, and perfect for potlucks or summer picnics.

5. Rhubarb Jam (Small-Batch)

Just rhubarb, sugar, and lemon—perfect on toast, pancakes, or stirred into yogurt.

6. Rhubarb Sorbet

A refreshing, icy treat that shows off rhubarb’s color and zing.

7. Rhubarb Muffins

Perfectly moist with bits of tart rhubarb—great for breakfast or snacks.

8. Rhubarb Pancake Topping

Simmer down chopped rhubarb with a little honey or maple syrup. Serve warm over pancakes or waffles.

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🥗 SAVORY RHUBARB RECIPES

9. Rhubarb Chutney

Pairs beautifully with roasted meats or sharp cheeses. Think of it like cranberry sauce… with an edge.

10. Grilled Chicken with Rhubarb BBQ Sauce

A sweet-tart glaze made with simmered rhubarb, vinegar, and brown sugar.

11. Pork Chops with Rhubarb Compote

Balance rich pork with a tangy rhubarb reduction—gourmet in 30 minutes.

12. Rhubarb Lentil Salad

Earthy lentils, arugula, goat cheese, and a rhubarb vinaigrette. Hello, dinner salad goals.

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🍹 DRINKS & COCKTAILS

13. Rhubarb Lemonade

Summer in a glass—bright, zesty, and the prettiest pink drink you’ll serve this year.

14. Rhubarb Moscow Mule

Swap cranberry for homemade rhubarb syrup. Add vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer.

15. Rhubarb Shrub (Drinking Vinegar)

Old-school preservation meets hipster bar cart. Mix with sparkling water or booze.

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🛒 Tips for Cooking with Rhubarb

• Choose firm, bright stalks. Avoid wilted or split ones.
• Trim the leaves completely. They’re toxic.
• Balance tartness. Rhubarb needs sugar, honey, or a sweet pairing.
• Freeze it! Chop and freeze raw rhubarb for year-round use.

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📌 Final Thoughts

Rhubarb is having a major glow-up—and it’s not just for your grandma’s pie anymore. Whether you’re into baking, batch cocktails, or creative savory meals, there’s a rhubarb recipe that’ll win your heart.

Which one will you try first? Tag your creations with #RhubarbRenaissance on social media and join the trend!