Poached Rhubarb

Stir together sugar and 1 1/2 cups water in a medium saucepan. Add vanilla bean and seeds, lemon zest and juice, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar has dissolved. Add rhubarb. Reduce heat; partially cover, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until rhubarb is just tender and beginning to break down, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer rhubarb to a bowl. Let rhubarb and poaching liquid cool completely. Remove vanilla bean from poaching liquid and discard.