healthy rhubarb recipes

Thank you so much for stopping by! If you’re here because rhubarb just started popping up at your farmer’s market or you’ve got a garden full of those striking pink stalks—welcome, friend. You’re in exactly the right place. Today, I’m sharing my favorite Healthy Rhubarb Recipes that celebrate this bold, beautiful ingredient in all its tangy glory—without loads of sugar or overly heavy baking.

Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast bake, a light dessert, or a naturally sweetened treat, these recipes are proof that rhubarb can be both flavorful and nourishing. And trust me, once you’ve tried these, you’ll be hoping for an overabundance of rhubarb every spring!

Don’t forget to subscribe to get my seasonal recipes delivered right to your inbox!

Why Rhubarb Deserves the Spotlight

Rhubarb is one of spring’s greatest gifts. Technically a vegetable, it cooks like fruit—and it brings a sharp, citrusy tang that’s the perfect balance to naturally sweet ingredients like honey, maple syrup, or berries.

But here’s the thing: so many rhubarb recipes are packed with sugar, which drowns out its unique flavor. These healthy rhubarb recipes keep things lighter and more wholesome, while still delivering all the comfort and flavor you love.

What Does Rhubarb Taste Like?

Rhubarb has a bright, tart flavor—think lemony without the citrus. When cooked down, it softens beautifully and becomes jammy, pairing perfectly with strawberries, apples, ginger, or vanilla.

Raw rhubarb? Too sour for most. But roasted, stewed, or baked into a crisp? Absolute magic.

Health Benefits of Rhubarb

• Low in calories and naturally high in fiber

• Rich in antioxidants, especially anthocyanins (that gorgeous red pigment!)

• Contains vitamin K, important for bone health

• Naturally low in sugar, so it pairs well with natural sweeteners for healthier desserts

• It’s versatile! Great in both sweet and savory dishes.

Ingredients to Keep on Hand for Healthy Rhubarb Recipes

If you’re working rhubarb into your spring and summer meals, stock up on these pantry and fridge essentials:

• Fresh or frozen rhubarb

• Strawberries, apples, or raspberries (great flavor companions)

• Honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar

• Oats and almond flour (for crisps, muffins, and bars)

• Greek yogurt or coconut cream

• Chia seeds and nut butters

• Spices like ginger, cinnamon, vanilla

Kitchen Tools You’ll Use Often

• Baking dish or pie pan

• Saucepan for compotes and syrups

• Blender or food processor (for smoothies or sauces)

• Mixing bowls

• Muffin tin

• Fine mesh strainer (for rhubarb juice or chia jam)

5 Delicious and Healthy Rhubarb Recipes

 

1. Rhubarb Strawberry Crisp (Naturally Sweetened)

Why You’ll Love It: Made with a maple-sweetened oat crumble and juicy strawberries. Vegan, gluten-free, and great with a scoop of coconut yogurt!

Ingredients:

• 3 cups chopped rhubarb

• 2 cups strawberries, halved

• 2–3 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tsp vanilla

• 1 cup rolled oats

• ⅓ cup almond flour

• 2 tbsp coconut oil

Instructions: Mix the fruit and syrup, top with crumble, bake at 375°F for 35–40 mins. Serve warm or chilled!

2. Healthy Rhubarb Muffins (No Refined Sugar)

Why You’ll Love It: Lightly sweet, moist, and packed with juicy rhubarb chunks. Great for breakfast or snacking!

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour

• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce

• 1 egg (or flax egg)

• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 cup chopped rhubarb

Instructions: Mix wet and dry separately, combine, fold in rhubarb, bake at 350°F for 20–25 mins.

3. Rhubarb Chia Jam

Why You’ll Love It: No pectin, no refined sugar, and it comes together in 15 minutes. Spoon it over yogurt, toast, or swirl into oatmeal!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups chopped rhubarb

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 2–3 tbsp maple syrup (to taste)

• 2 tbsp chia seeds

Instructions: Simmer rhubarb with lemon and syrup until soft, mash, stir in chia seeds, let thicken.

4. Roasted Rhubarb over Greek Yogurt

Why You’ll Love It: A simple yet stunning breakfast or dessert. Roasting deepens the flavor and brings out natural sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 3–4 rhubarb stalks, sliced

• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of cinnamon

Instructions: Toss and roast at 375°F for 20–25 mins. Spoon over Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of granola or nuts.

5. Rhubarb Smoothie with Strawberry & Banana

Why You’ll Love It: Creamy, tangy, and naturally sweet. Great for breakfast or post-workout refuel.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup stewed rhubarb

• 1 frozen banana

• ½ cup strawberries

• ½ cup Greek yogurt or coconut milk

• ½ cup almond milk

• 1 tbsp honey or nut butter (optional)

Instructions: Blend all ingredients until smooth. Add ice for extra chill!

What to Serve with Healthy Rhubarb Recipes

Pair these vibrant recipes with other whole-food dishes for a balanced, seasonal spread:

• Fresh herb salads (think arugula, mint, and citrus)

• Chia pudding or overnight oats topped with rhubarb jam

• Grilled chicken or salmon with a rhubarb chutney or glaze

• Toasted sourdough with almond butter and a spoon of rhubarb compote

• Lemon or ginger tea to complement rhubarb’s tart notes

Tips for Cooking with Rhubarb

• Always trim the leaves – They’re toxic and not safe to eat! Use only the stalks.

• Balance the tartness – A touch of sweetness brings out rhubarb’s best side.

• Dice it evenly – For even cooking in crisps or jams.

• Combine with sweet fruits – Strawberries, apples, bananas, or oranges help mellow its sharpness.

• Freeze extra – Chop and freeze raw rhubarb for year-round use.

Storage Instructions

• Fresh rhubarb: Store stalks wrapped in a damp towel in the fridge for up to 5 days.

• Cooked rhubarb recipes: Keep in airtight containers in the fridge for 3–4 days.

• Freezing: Chop raw rhubarb and freeze in a single layer before transferring to bags—lasts up to 1 year!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I eat rhubarb raw?
Technically yes, but it’s extremely tart. Most people prefer it cooked or sweetened.

Is rhubarb good for you?
Yes! It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and a great source of antioxidants and vitamin K.

Do I have to peel rhubarb?
Nope! Just give it a good wash and trim the ends. The skin softens when cooked.

Can I use frozen rhubarb in these recipes?
Absolutely—no need to thaw first unless you’re baking with it.

What fruits pair well with rhubarb?
Strawberries are the classic pairing, but apples, oranges, raspberries, and even pineapple are amazing with rhubarb’s tang.

In Conclusion

Rhubarb doesn’t get nearly enough credit for how versatile, vibrant, and absolutely delicious it can be—especially when you keep things wholesome. These Healthy Rhubarb Recipes show that you can enjoy all the tart, fruity goodness of rhubarb without loading up on sugar or complicated ingredients. From jammy chia spreads to cozy crisps and protein-packed muffins, each dish lets rhubarb shine in a way that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

Whether you’re baking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just celebrating the return of spring, I hope these recipes bring something special to your table—and maybe even help you fall in love with rhubarb all over again.

If you try one of these healthy rhubarb creations, I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below, tag me on Pinterest, or send a photo my way—I live for those kitchen wins, especially when they involve seasonal favorites like this.

Here’s to simple ingredients, seasonal joy, and recipes that taste just as good as they make you feel.

More Fresh Recipes to Try

• If you’re loving the light, seasonal feel of these Healthy Rhubarb Recipes, you’ll definitely want to check out these other fresh, vibrant favorites! Each one is wholesome, simple to make, and full of flavor—perfect for spring and summer meals that feel as good as they taste.

  [Strawberry Chia Jam (Refined Sugar-Free)]

  Naturally sweetened and thickened with chia seeds, this quick jam is perfect for spreading on toast, stirring into yogurt, or topping overnight oats. A great companion to rhubarb jam too!

  [Peach and Berry Crisp with Oat Topping]

  A late-summer classic with juicy peaches, berries, and a golden oat-almond crumble. Naturally sweetened and easily made vegan or gluten-free.

  [Cucumber Quinoa Salad with Lemon-Dill Dressing]

  Cool, crisp, and packed with protein and fiber. This refreshing salad is a great light lunch or side for grilled mains.

  [Spring Veggie Frittata with Goat Cheese]

  Loaded with seasonal greens, asparagus, and creamy goat cheese—this frittata makes a stunning brunch or light dinner and pairs wonderfully with roasted rhubarb on the side.

  [Lemon Yogurt Muffins with Poppy Seeds]

  Bright, tender, and lower in sugar, these muffins are perfect with a swipe of rhubarb chia jam or enjoyed on their own with tea.

Nutritional Note (Varies by Recipe)

Each of these Healthy Rhubarb Recipes is thoughtfully crafted to bring out rhubarb’s bright, tangy flavor while keeping things nourishing and wholesome. Exact nutritional values will vary based on ingredients and serving size, but here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect from these recipes:

• Low in Calories: Most servings range from 150 to 300 calories, making them great for light meals, snacks, or desserts.

• Naturally Sweetened: Sweetness comes from honey, maple syrup, applesauce, or fruit, avoiding refined white sugar.

• Higher in Fiber: Thanks to rhubarb, oats, whole grains, and chia seeds—helping keep you fuller longer.

• Rich in Antioxidants: Rhubarb and berries are both loaded with antioxidants that support immune health and reduce inflammation.

• Heart-Healthy Fats: Many of the recipes use coconut oil, almond flour, or nut butters for healthy, satisfying fats.

• Diet-Friendly Options: Many recipes are gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan—or can be adapted easily with simple swaps.

Always remember to adjust based on your own ingredient brands and portion sizes if you’re tracking specific macros or dietary needs.

These recipes strike a balance between comfort and clean eating—bringing all the cozy flavors of your favorite rhubarb bakes, with a little extra goodness in every bite!

Print