I never think about orzo pasta, I feel like other shapes are just more popular. But I am missing out as this unique rice-shaped pasta is super versatile; it absorbs a dressing or sauce and it pairs with practically every protein or vegetable out there. If you’re like me and find yourself stuck, here are six distinct ways to cook with orzo.

Roasted Veggie Orzo


Orzo acts as the strong backbone to this Lemon Garlic Roasted Veggie Orzo. The savory flavors of roasted vegetables are brightened up by the fresh flavor of lemon and notes of garlic.

Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup


When in Rome, isn’t that the saying? Well it works for this Italian Sausage Tomato Orzo Soup. Just like Italian cooks, we used orzo pasta as the filling carb for the rustic minestrone-like soup.

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup


In this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, the flavors of lemon and dill harken to flavor profiles of Greece. Bright and cheery, these flavors are an all-season pick-me-up. Just like in a classic avgolmenono soup, lemon and eggs are whisked into the soup, creating a velvety smooth broth.

Barbara Kingsolver’s Zucchini Orzo


Orzo is just one of those pastas that pair perfectly with vegetables. In Barbara Kingsolver’s Animal Vegetable Miracle book she makes a dish where zucchini is grated and sautéed with onions and then tossed together with the orzo. The result is a beautiful dish where all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Greek Orzo Salad


There is nothing like a classic, and when I think of orzo, my mind goes to the summer flavors of a Greek Orzo Salad. Orzo soaks up the oregano-fragrant dressing, making for a tasty forkful each and every time. Add in olives and crumbled bits of feta, and you have yourself a perfect side dish.

One-Skillet Caprese Chicken Orzo

One-Skillet Caprese Chicken Orzo
This One-Skillet Caprese Chicken Orzo transforms orzo from a side character into a main star. As the orzo cooks in the skillet, it absorbs the flavors from the seared chicken and the sauce creating a taste that’s complex and deep. I guarantee you haven’t tasted orzo like this before.