Orzo recipes: easy & quick ideas full of flavor

Orzo is a versatile type of pasta that works perfectly for quick weekday meals as well as more elaborate dinners. In this article, you’ll discover what orzo is, how to cook it perfectly, and explore the best orzo recipes. From vegetarian dishes to fresh salads and flavourful combinations with fish and seafood.

What is orzo?

Orzo, also known as risoni, is a type of pasta made from wheat. Although it looks like rice, it is in fact pasta. Orzo is widely used in Mediterranean cuisine and commonly found in soups, stews, salads and as an alternative to risotto.

Thanks to its firm texture and neutral flavour, orzo absorbs herbs, spices and sauces extremely well. This makes it an ideal base for a wide variety of dishes.

Why cooking with orzo is so popular

Orzo is popular among home cooks and chefs alike because it is:

• Quick to cook (8–10 minutes)
• Extremely versatile – suitable for hot and cold dishes
• Excellent at absorbing flavours
• Perfect for vegetarian, fish and meat-based meals

Combined with vegetables, proteins and herbs, orzo forms the basis of a balanced and satisfying meal.

How to cook orzo perfectly

Basic orzo cooking method

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil

2. Use approx. 1 litre of water per 100 g of orzo

3. Add the orzo and stir briefly

4. Cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente

5. Drain and toss with a little olive oil

💡 Extra flavour tip: cook orzo in vegetable or chicken stock instead of water.

Easy orzo recipes for everyday cooking

Orzo with roasted vegetables
Mix cooked orzo with roasted bell peppers, courgette and aubergine. Season with olive oil, salt and pepper.

Creamy orzo “risotto”
Cook orzo slowly in stock and finish with Parmesan cheese and butter. Faster than traditional risotto, but just as comforting.

Cooking orzo with herbs and spices

Orzo truly comes to life when paired with the right herbs and spices. Because it absorbs flavours so well, seasoning makes the difference between a simple dish and a memorable one.

Think of:

• Mediterranean herbs such as oregano, thyme and basil
• Smoked paprika for extra depth
• Garlic, onion and citrus zest for freshness

At TeaSalt&Spices, you’ll find carefully selected herbs and spices that pair perfectly with orzo dishes. Using high-quality seasonings adds depth and character without complicated techniques.

👉 Discover our herbs and spices for orzo dishes

Vegetarian orzo recipes

Orzo with spinach and feta
Spinach, garlic, orzo and crumbled feta create a quick, nutritious and flavourful dish.

Orzo with pumpkin and sage
Perfect for autumn and winter: roasted pumpkin, fresh sage and toasted pine nuts.

Orzo with fish and seafood

Orzo with shrimp and lemon
Light, fresh and ideal for a quick dinner.

Orzo with mussels and tomato
A Mediterranean classic that feels special without being complicated.

Fresh orzo salads

• Greek orzo salad with feta, olives and oregano
• Orzo salad with pesto and grilled vegetables
• Orzo salad with mango and avocado for a summer twist

Frequently asked questions about orzo

Is orzo pasta or rice?
Orzo is pasta made from wheat.

How much orzo per person?
75–100 g of dry orzo per person.

Can you store cooked orzo?
Yes, up to 5 days in the fridge and suitable for freezing.

Why orzo deserves a place in your kitchen

Orzo is quick, versatile and endlessly adaptable. With the right herbs and ingredients, you can create flavourful meals in no time – perfect for busy days and special occasions alike.