Orzo is a versatile pasta with a small rice-like shape. Ideal for pasta salads, casseroles, pilafs, risottos and soups, this little pasta is a fun shape that will work well in many recipes. Check out my 13 orzo substitutes for those times you need an alternative!
So if you need to use an orzo substitute for dietary reasons or availability, I’ve got you covered.
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Several orzo alternatives can take the place of this tiny pasta and will give you the same feel and texture.
Let’s explore the wonders of orzo pasta, its culinary uses and recipes with orzo and also learn about some of the best orzo substitutes that you can use when orzo isn't on hand.
What is orzo?
Orzo is a small pasta that originated in Italy. This petite pasta has a similar shape to rice and barley and gets its name from the Italian word for barley due to its resemblance to the grain.
Traditionally made from semolina flour, which is coarsely ground durum wheat, this tiny pasta is well loved.
Known for its ability to absorb flavors, orzo also keeps its slightly chewy texture.
Popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, orzo is well known for being an ingredient in Italian Wedding Soup.
Orzo is especially popular in side dishes served with grilled vegetables and meats.
The texture and shape of this small pasta make it an excellent choice for pasta salad recipes.
Is orzo a pasta?
Yes, although orzo is shaped similar to rice, it is a small pasta made from semolina flour.
Semolina flour is higher in protein than other types of flour and this is why orzo has a chewier texture than traditional pastas.
How to store orzo
Store uncooked orzo in an airtight container or in the box that it came in.
If you have leftover cooked orzo, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cooked orzo will stay fresh for about 4 days.
How to cook orzo
Orzo is typically boiled in a pot of salted water just like other pastas.
However, you can also cook orzo in broth or seasoned water to give it additional flavor.
Recipes with orzo
Substitutions for Orzo
Arborio Rice
Arborio rice is well known for its use in risottos.
Although arborio rice takes longer to cook than orzo, it is a good alternative for the pasta in creamy recipes.
Arborio rice absorbs flavors nicely and provides a creamy texture in recipes.
Barley
Another good substitute for orzo is barley. Barley is an ancient grain with a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
Although barley is slightly larger than orzo, it has a similar texture and mouthfeel and will absorb flavors easily while cooking.
Barley is also rich in fiber, minerals and vitamins, making it a nutritious choice as an orzo substitute.
Barley will work well in soups, stews and pilafs.
Broken Spaghetti
You can break spaghetti into small pieces and use it in place of orzo.
Broken spaghetti will be a good alternative in casseroles and soups.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is similar in size and texture to orzo. It also has a nutty flavor and will hold up well in many recipes.
Brown rice is a good substitute for orzo.
Cauliflower Rice
Cauliflower rice is a gluten free alternative for orzo pasta.
With its slightly nutty flavor and chewy texture, cauliflower rice will work well in soups, salads and casseroles.
You can buy cauliflower rice in the produce section of your grocery store or make it yourself in a food processor or with a hand grater.
Ditalini Pasta
Ditalini pasta is a bit larger than orzo but is a good alternative and will perform the same way in recipes as orzo.
Ditalini is a good choice to use in soups and pasta salads.
Farro
Farro, an ancient grain, is a hearty substitute for orzo in recipes.
Farro also has a chewy texture along with a nutty flavor and works especially well in salads and soups.
You can also cook farro until it is very tender. This ancient grain will add an earthy flavor and texture with a slight bite to it.
Gluten Free Orzo Pasta
If you want orzo pasta but cannot eat traditional pasta for dietary reasons, you can use a gluten free orzo pasta in its place.
Israeli Couscous
Israeli couscous, also known as pearl couscous, is similar in size to orzo.
Israeli couscous is chewier than regular couscous and a bit larger in size too.
Isreali couscous also has a chewy texture and slightly nutty flavor. This alternate will work well in salads, soups and pilafs.
Lentils
Lentils are a legume that is similar in size to orzo and can be used as an orzo substitute.
Lentils have an earthy flavor and a slightly firm texture and will be a nice addition to salads, soups and casseroles.
Long Grain Wild Rice
Long grain wild rice is similar to orzo in size and shape.
Wild rice also has a nutty flavor and a chewy texture and is an excellent substitute for orzo.
Use long grain wild rice in salads, soups and casseroles instead of orzo.
Quinoa
Quinoa is a gluten free alternative to orzo pasta. A nutritious whole grain, quinoa is rich in fiber, protein and essential nutrients.
Quinoa has a slightly firmer bite than orzo and does differ in texture but can be cooked in a similar way to orzo.
With its nutty flavor and nutritional benefits, quinoa is another good substitute for orzo in salad, grain bowl and pilaf recipes.
Wheat Berries
Wheat berries are whole wheat kernels that have a nutty flavor and a firm texture.
Just boil the wheat berries and use them in salads, grain bowls or side dish recipes that call for orzo.
In conclusion
Orzo pasta is a versatile and popular pasta used in many recipes.
However, if you are in need of a substitute for orzo, either for dietary reasons or in a pinch, give some of the substitutes a try and you will quickly find the best alternatives for your recipes and one that is your favorite.
From quinoa to Israeli couscous, barley, farro and more, there are many options to try in place of orzo. Happy cooking!
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I need these tips! Especially when I run out of Orzo for my casseroles and risotto but don't feel like heading out to buy more. This is a lifesaver. Thank you!
Always happy to help! Thanks for stopping by Giangi!
Such a helpful post! I love learning about the different substitutions because they come handy when I am in a pinch with ingredients and can't run to the store (I live 20 minutes away from any supermarket) 🙂
Thanks!