If you love Orzo as much as I do, then you're in the right place! Here are some of my favorite easy orzo recipes that are fresh, comforting and full of flavor. From Mediterranean-inspired salads, to cozy one-pot meals, hearty dinners and soups, these recipes show just how versatile this little pasta can be.
Who doesn't love orzo, right? There’s something about orzo that makes every dish a little more delicious. This small, rice-shaped pasta is so versatile and a personal favorite - you will always find a box of orzo in my pantry!
What I love most about orzo, is that their tiny shape is great for absorbing dressings, sauces and soups and its so easy to cook with. Here I've put together my go to orzo recipes I make on repeat - these cover any occasion, from easy dinners, side dishes and soups.
What is Orzo?
Orzo is a small, rice-shaped pasta made from semolina flour (durum wheat). Although it looks like rice, it’s actually pasta and cooks quickly while absorbing flavors beautifully. In Italy, orzo (called risoni) is traditionally something you'd find in soups and brothy dishes, much like other small pasta shapes - just like in this pastina recipe. Outside Italy, especially in countries such as the US, UK, Canada and Australia, you'll often see it in pasta salads and cooked risotto style to create creamy, comforting dishes.
Orzo Recipes to Try
Orzo Salad
A fresh and vibrant orzo salad filled with veggies, herbs and a tangy lemon dressing. It’s one of those easy dishes thats perfect for sharing
Creamy Orzo Pasta
A comforting one pan meal that’s creamy, satisfying and packed with veggies and protein. An easy dinner you’ll have on your rotation
Pastina - Italian Comfort Food
The ultimate Italian comfort food using tiny pasta such as stelline, orzo and ditalini in just 8 minutes
Mushroom Orzo
Ready in just 20 minutes, this creamy dinner is full of rich umami flavor and made lighter without any heavy cream
Lemon Orzo
Bright, zesty and full of flavor, this one pot orzo is perfect as a simple side or cozy main. Packed with peas, spinach and parmesan
Greek Orzo Salad - Feta Dressing
Packed with fresh flavors, this orzo salad pairs colorful veggies and olives with a creamy feta dressing thats perfect for sharing
Lemon Orzo Soup
This soup is a staple in my home. It’s light, fresh and cozy, made with pantry staples for an easy meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl
Turkish Rice
This classic rice dish combines fluffy rice with toasted orzo, adding a delicious nutty flavor and texture that makes it more than just a simple side
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t overcook the orzo as it can become mushy. Keep an eye on the pasta and the cook time, ensuring to stir frequently as you go
- Reserve some pasta water as orzo can stick together once cooled. The pasta water will help loosen it up to make it silky again
- Add dressing to the pasta while it’s still warm. The dressing will absorb into the warm pasta better which gives it more flavor
FAQs
Although orzo looks like rice, its actually a type of pasta. Its often used in dishes where you might use rice, which is why its such a versatile ingredient for salads, sides and comforting meals
Cook orzo like regular pasta in generously salted boiling water. Cooking time varies by brand, so follow the package instructions and cook until al dente before draining. For creamy one pot meals, orzo can also be cooked directly in broth, similar to risotto
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