A novel approach to investigate turbulent flows in complex configurations is presented. It is based on the combined use of computer simulations and experimental measurements, and has the ability to produce, in a short period of time, large datasets in three-dimensional volumes. The measurements are based on magnetic resonance velocimetry whereas the computations use the immersed boundary technique. Both methods enable detailed analysis of flow fields in realistic configurations and can be used in a complementary way to identify regions of interest and perform design decisions. Direct comparisons between the experimental and numerical datasets are presented for the flow in a pipe and in a three-leg rib-roughened serpentine as a first step towards a more complete validation; the current limitations of the present approach are also discussed.