Rhubarb isn’t just for desserts. Its tangy bite works surprisingly well in all kinds of savory dishes—adding brightness, depth, and a little edge. Whether you’re working with chicken, tofu, or cheese boards, these recipes show off how rhubarb can really hold its own.
From chutneys and glazes to flatbreads and sauces, here are 17+ grounded, flavorful ways to bring rhubarb into your everyday cooking.
These ideas are easy to explore and fun to mix into meals you already make.
1. Rhubarb Chutney with Indian Spices
This chutney balances rhubarb’s tartness with warm Indian spices like cumin and mustard seed. It’s chunky, bold, and a great way to add something different to grilled meats or cheese boards. A little sweet, a little tangy, and packed with flavor, it stores well and gets better over time.
Learn how to make this flavorful rhubarb chutney with Indian spices.
2. Roasted Chicken with Rhubarb Glaze
This dish pairs classic roasted chicken with a bright rhubarb glaze. The glaze is a mix of tangy and sweet, helping to balance the richness of the meat. It’s not too strong but adds just enough kick to keep things interesting.
You can make this roasted chicken with rhubarb glaze.
3. Rhubarb and Goat Cheese Flatbread
Creamy goat cheese and tart rhubarb make a smart pairing on this crisp flatbread. Add a little honey or fresh herbs if you like, but it’s already full of flavor on its own. It works well as a lunch, snack, or light dinner when served with a salad.
Try the full method for this rhubarb and goat cheese flatbread.
4. Grilled Pork Chops with Rhubarb BBQ Sauce
These grilled pork chops get a lift from a tangy rhubarb BBQ sauce. The sauce adds a fruity depth that cuts through the richness of the meat without overpowering it. It’s a nice switch from the usual barbecue flavors.
Here’s how to make these grilled pork chops with rhubarb BBQ sauce.
5. Baked Brie with Rhubarb Compote
Soft, warm brie pairs perfectly with a spoonful of rhubarb compote. The tart fruit cuts through the creamy cheese, making it a great appetizer or centerpiece for a snack board. Serve with crackers or toasted bread.
Get the steps for this baked brie with rhubarb compote.
6. Duck Breast with Rhubarb Wine Reduction
This duck breast recipe uses a rhubarb wine reduction to add a touch of acidity and sweetness to the rich meat. The sauce is smooth and elegant, but not hard to make. It’s a good choice if you want something special without being too fussy.
You can follow the full recipe for duck breast with rhubarb wine reduction.
7. Rhubarb Salsa with Jalapeño and Cilantro
This fresh salsa mixes chopped rhubarb with jalapeño, cilantro, and lime. It’s tart, slightly spicy, and great on fish tacos, grilled chicken, or even as a dip. It’s not your usual salsa, but it’s easy to enjoy.
Check out this rhubarb salsa with jalapeño and cilantro.
8. Pan-Seared Salmon with Rhubarb Ginger Sauce
Salmon’s richness goes well with the sharp, bright flavor of rhubarb. This sauce adds grated ginger for warmth and freshness, making the dish feel balanced without being heavy. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal.
Learn how to make this pan-seared salmon with rhubarb ginger sauce.
9. Pulled Chicken Sandwiches with Rhubarb Slaw
Tender pulled chicken meets a crisp, slightly tangy rhubarb slaw in this easy sandwich recipe. The slaw adds crunch and a little bite that makes every bite more interesting. Serve with chips or a simple salad.
Make these pulled chicken sandwiches with rhubarb slaw.
10. Rhubarb Pickles for Sandwiches and Boards
These quick-pickled rhubarb slices are tart and just a little sweet. They’re great on sandwiches, burgers, or cheese boards. A jar in the fridge goes a long way when you want to add something crisp and bright.
Here’s how to make rhubarb pickles for sandwiches and boards.
11. Grilled Tofu with Rhubarb-Soy Glaze
Tofu gets a savory-sweet makeover with this rhubarb-soy glaze. The glaze caramelizes slightly on the grill, giving the tofu a flavorful outer crust. It’s a nice way to add something different to a plant-based meal.
Try this grilled tofu with rhubarb-soy glaze.
12. Rhubarb Shallot Tart with Feta
This savory tart combines roasted shallots and crumbled feta with rhubarb slices. The crust is flaky, and the topping is full of contrast—sweet, salty, and just a little tangy. It works well as a starter or light lunch.
Get the recipe for this rhubarb shallot tart with feta.
13. Spicy Rhubarb Relish for Burgers
This chunky relish blends rhubarb with heat from chilies and a bit of sugar. Spoon it over burgers or grilled sausages for something that feels both familiar and new. It’s great to have on hand for cookouts.
Here’s how to make spicy rhubarb relish for burgers.
14. Rhubarb Gazpacho with Cucumber and Mint
This cold soup is refreshing, with rhubarb giving it a tart base and cucumber adding a cooling crunch. Mint ties it all together. It’s light but satisfying, especially on warm days.
Follow this recipe for rhubarb gazpacho with cucumber and mint.
15. Smoky Rhubarb BBQ Glaze
This smoky glaze is a good way to give grilled foods a little something extra. Rhubarb brings a fruity brightness, while spices and a touch of sweetness round things out. Brush it on chicken, ribs, or even roasted veggies.
Make your own batch of this smoky rhubarb BBQ glaze.
16. Zesty Rhubarb Ginger Sauce
This zesty sauce works well as a topping for meats, tofu, or grain bowls. Rhubarb gives it a strong base, and ginger keeps it lively. It’s simple to make and lasts in the fridge for a few days.
You can make this zesty rhubarb ginger sauce.
Final Thoughts
Rhubarb can do a lot more than most people expect. These recipes show how it fits into all kinds of meals—from meats and fish to snacks and sauces. If you’re looking to bring new life to your cooking, a little rhubarb can go a long way.
Try one or two dishes that catch your eye and see how this tart, bold ingredient fits into your style of cooking.