Made of semolina wheat, orzo is a type of pasta that can be adapted into many dishes. With its size advantage and delightful flavor, you can implement orzo into a wide variety of recipes. Originally from Mediterranean cuisine, this interesting ingredient is quickly taking over, with so much versatility it can be part of your salads, stews, fillings and even soups!
To cook orzo, the process is not too different from regular pasta. You can always follow the steps shown on the container and consider the cooking time for about 6 to 8 minutes. Don’t forget to constantly check to avoid overcooking.
What about orzo that makes it a great pantry staple?
You might be surprised to discover orzo is a great source of protein, once cooked you can get a well-rounded meal that is sure to pack a punch in your lunch. It also includes optimal amounts of vitamins and minerals, so you won’t be just eating plain pasta when adding orzo to your meals, quite the opposite, you are making a great choice by tweaking up your meals with this whole grain.
Pasta is a delicious meal, no matter how we prepare it, you can truly never go wrong. Now imagine a type of pasta that can be included on every dish conceivable and still be the protagonist, well, that is orzo for you. If you are not convinced yet, then let me explain how to include this fun sized ingredient in your meals so you don’t miss out on some delicious cooked orzo.
Salads
Orzo is great as a salad base, and after adding your favorite toppings and sauce you can achieve a healthy, filling meal in one bowl. Some great pairs are chicken as a source of protein, tomatoes, peas or carrots for your veggies and maybe pesto sauce to pull it all together. You would be surprised to see how many recipes out there combine the salad technique with this unique ingredient.
Soup
Soup and pasta have never been closer. Do you recall those comforting get-well soups that moms made when someone felt sick? Well, pairing chicken broth and orzo together with your vegetables of preference can strike up some sweet aromatic nostalgia in the most delightful way.
Regular pasta plate
Of course just a plate of pasta would make the list, it’s a no brainer, simple dish that has become comfort food to millions around the world. Cook as you would your regular pasta dishes, with your meat or poultry of choice serving as the crown for your orzo bed, sprinkle with some aromatic herbs and you will have a tasty treat.
Orzo for filling
Conveniently sized, orzo works perfectly as filling for your favored veggies. Consider a large vegetable like eggplant, some stir-fried orzo mixed together with cherry tomatoes and cheese, bake and serve. So simple but so appetizing!
Now that we introduced orzo and all agree it’s a fantastic addition to your meals, you can try it next and tell us about your experience! For some reference, we leave you with and chicken and orzo soup recipe to test your culinary skills, here is what you need:
- 2 chicken thighs.
- 2 finely chopped carrots.
- 1 finely sliced leek.
- 1 cup of cooked orzo.
- 4 cups of chicken broth.
- 1 lemon.
- Pinch of salt.
- Pinch of pepper.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Chicken, carrot and orzo soup preparation:
- In a pot, bring the broth to a boil. Add the chicken and cook for about 35 minutes.
- While the chicken cooks, in a skillet heat the oil, add the pepper and salt. Sauté the carrots and leek.
- Take the chicken from the broth and cut into slices.
- In the broth pot, mix together the chicken slices and the sautéed veggies.
- While the soup boils, add the lemon juice and its zest to aromatize.
It’s all done! Your family will love this Mediterranean delicacy and you can try as many versions as you can come up with.
Ultimately, orzo is a wonderful alternative for both rice and pasta! It’s the best of both worlds and it comes with significant nutritious value. Try it with your favorite sides, vegetables, beef and more, the possibilities are endless.
