Best Orzo Brands

Top Choices for Quality and Taste

Orzo, a versatile rice-shaped pasta, has become a staple in many kitchens due to its ability to effortlessly blend into various recipes, from soups to salads. Its unique texture and quick cooking time make it a favorite among both home chefs and culinary professionals.

Choosing the best orzo brand can significantly enhance the quality of your dishes, ensuring excellent taste and consistency. This article will explore the top orzo brands available, providing insights to help you select the right one for your culinary needs.

1) Barilla Orzo Pasta

Barilla Orzo Pasta is a versatile option that's easy to cook. Made from high-quality durum wheat, it offers a solid texture that holds up well in a variety of dishes.

Cooking Barilla Orzo is straightforward. Bring 4-6 quarts of water to a boil, add salt, and cook the pasta for around 9 minutes for an al dente texture or an additional minute for a softer bite.

This pasta's small, rice-like shape makes it ideal for soups, salads, and as a base for main dishes. It can also be toasted lightly in butter before adding liquid, enhancing the flavor and providing a nuttier taste.

Barilla Orzo is praised for maintaining a firm texture even when mixed with various ingredients. It absorbs flavors well, making it a favorite for recipes that require pasta to blend seamlessly with other components.

2) DeLallo Organic Orzo

DeLallo Organic Orzo stands out with its quality and versatility. Made from 100% organic ingredients, this orzo offers a healthy option for pasta lovers. The product is manufactured by DeLallo, a reputable brand known for its dedication to authentic Italian pasta.

The orzo’s small, rice-like shape makes it perfect for various dishes. It works exceptionally well in soups, adding a hearty texture without overwhelming the dish. Additionally, this orzo is excellent in salads, providing a unique base that holds up well to dressings and mix-ins.

Cooking DeLallo Organic Orzo is straightforward and convenient. Ready in just around 20 minutes, it allows for quick meal preparation. Whether it's a creamy side dish or a main-course salad, this orzo adapts seamlessly to different recipes.

Available in a 1-pound package, it is priced affordably at $3.95. This makes it accessible for everyday meals and special occasions alike. DeLallo offers the product both in single units and in bulk cases, catering to various needs.

The emphasis on organic ingredients appeals to health-conscious consumers. DeLallo Organic Orzo meets the demand for nutritious yet delicious pasta options, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.

3) Bob's Red Mill Orzo

Bob's Red Mill is well-known for its high-quality grains and flours. Their orzo is made from organic durum wheat semolina, ensuring a firm texture and rich flavor. This organic offering caters to those seeking a premium, health-conscious pasta option.

The orzo stands out due to its consistent quality and reliability. The grains cook evenly, making it a preferred choice for various recipes. Whether used in soups, salads, or main dishes, Bob's Red Mill orzo holds its shape and texture well.

Many appreciate Bob's Red Mill for its commitment to non-GMO ingredients. Their orzo reflects this ethos, providing a trustworthy pasta choice for those mindful of food origins.

In terms of taste, this orzo has a subtle, nutty flavor that complements many dishes. Its versatility makes it suitable for traditional Italian recipes as well as contemporary culinary creations.

4) Colavita Orzo

Colavita Orzo is produced in Molise, Italy, and offers an authentic Italian pasta experience. Each one-pound package of this small, rice-like pasta is priced at $2.49 USD, making it an affordable option for various culinary applications.

This orzo is versatile and can be used in a range of dishes. It not only fits well in soups but also shines in salads and side dishes, providing a unique texture and flavor.

Made with high-quality ingredients, Colavita Orzo stands out due to its excellent consistency and culinary flexibility. It serves as a reliable choice for home cooks looking to explore traditional Italian cuisine.

5) RiceSelect Orzo

RiceSelect Orzo offers a versatile option made from high-quality ingredients. The orzo is crafted using enriched durum semolina wheat, niacin, ferrous sulfate iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, and folic acid.

To prepare RiceSelect Orzo, bring water to a boil and optionally add salt. Add the orzo, return to a boil, and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain and serve.

1 cup of dry RiceSelect Orzo yields approximately 3 cups of cooked pasta. This makes it a practical choice for various meal sizes.

Their lineup includes Whole Wheat Orzo and Tri-Color Orzo. Whole Wheat Orzo is made exclusively with enriched durum semolina wheat. Tri-Color Orzo includes vibrant tomato and spinach flavors, providing more variety in taste and presentation.

This brand enjoys high customer satisfaction, with positive feedback and top ratings regularly noted in reviews.

6) 365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Orzo

365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Orzo stands out for its commitment to high-quality ingredients. This orzo is made from organic durum wheat semolina, ensuring a pure and wholesome product.

The orzo's organic certification guarantees that it is free from synthetic additives and pesticides. This makes it a suitable choice for those prioritizing organic food in their diets.

Packaging is another strong point. The orzo is available in a 16-ounce bag, offering a generous amount for various recipes. Whether used in soups, salads, or as a side dish, its versatility is appreciated by many consumers.

Availability is convenient for shoppers. It can be found in Whole Foods Market stores and is also available for online orders through their website. This accessibility allows for easy purchasing no matter the preference.

7) Trader Joe's Italian Orzo Pasta

Trader Joe's Italian Orzo Pasta is a standout choice for orzo lovers. Priced at just $0.99 for a pound, it offers great value without compromising on quality.

The pasta is made from 100% durum semolina wheat, ensuring a firm and satisfying texture. This durum wheat is milled on-site by their experienced supplier, who boasts over a century in the pasta-making business.

Trader Joe's Orzo is celebrated for its smooth, authentic feel and excellent cooking properties. This small, rice-shaped pasta is versatile, perfect for soups, salads, and side dishes.

Its kosher certification adds to its appeal, accommodating a wider range of dietary needs. Trader Joe's commitment to tradition and quality is evident in every bite.

8) Pastificio Di Martino Orzo

Pastificio Di Martino is known for its high-quality pasta made from 100% Italian durum wheat semolina. Their orzo stands out due to its consistent texture and rich flavor. The brand focuses on traditional methods, ensuring an authentic taste.

This orzo contains a minimum of 14% protein, making it a nutritious choice. The high protein content contributes to the pasta's firm texture, which holds up well in various dishes.

Available in their US store, Pastificio Di Martino offers customers a 10% discount on their next purchase. This promotion makes it an attractive option for those looking to try authentic Italian pasta without traveling.

Using non-GMO ingredients, Pastificio Di Martino emphasizes quality and health. Their approach to pasta-making highlights the brand's commitment to maintaining traditional Italian culinary standards.

When preparing dishes, this orzo complements both light and hearty sauces. Its versatility makes it suitable for soups, salads, and side dishes.

The brand's reputation and meticulous production processes make Pastificio Di Martino Orzo a reliable choice for anyone seeking premium pasta.

9) Garofalo Orzo

Garofalo Orzo stands out in the market due to its high-quality production. Made from 100% durum wheat semolina, it maintains excellent texture and flavor.

This pasta is crafted in Gragnano, Italy, known as the pasta-crafting capital. The region's natural resources enhance the quality of the pasta.

The orzo's shape mimics rice grains, making it versatile for various recipes such as soups and light sauces.

Bronze drawing is used in manufacturing, providing a rough texture that helps sauces adhere better. This method enriches the dish's overall taste.

10) Rustichella d'Abruzzo Orzo

Rustichella d'Abruzzo Orzo is crafted from high-quality semolina, ensuring it maintains its shape and texture during cooking. This orzo is air-dried for 56 hours, which enhances its density and flavor.

The orzo is versatile, ideal for soups, pasta salads, or as a side dish. It pairs well with a variety of ingredients, such as salmon, cherry tomatoes, and feta.

Originating from Abruzzo, Italy, Rustichella d'Abruzzo brings traditional Italian pasta-making techniques to modern kitchens. This orzo is known for its artisanal quality, using stone-ground durum wheat and pure spring water.

Packaged in rustic, brown paper, Rustichella d'Abruzzo Orzo evokes a nostalgic, Old World feel. This attention to tradition and detail makes it a favorite among gourmet cooks and home chefs alike.

Health Benefits of Orzo

Orzo offers a range of nutritional benefits, making it a valuable addition to various diets. Its contributions to essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients make it worth considering.

Nutritional Profile

Orzo pasta is rich in carbohydrates and contains a notable amount of protein. For every 2 ounces (56 grams) serving, orzo provides approximately 210 calories, 44 grams of carbohydrates, 7 grams of protein, and 1 gram of fat.

There is a modest amount of dietary fiber at 2 grams per serving. While orzo made from refined grains may lack some nutrients, whole-grain varieties offer niacin, thiamine, folate, magnesium, zinc, and manganese. These vitamins and minerals are essential for maintaining various body functions. Additionally, orzo can be a source of iron, with about 0.7 micrograms per serving, which is beneficial for preventing anemia.

Orzo in a Balanced Diet

Incorporating orzo into a balanced diet can be simple and rewarding. Its protein and fiber content make it a satisfying choice that aligns well with many dietary patterns, including the Mediterranean diet. Orzo supports digestion due to its fiber content, aiding in regular bowel movements.

Using orzo as a substitute for traditional pasta or rice can diversify meals. It works well in soups, salads, and side dishes. Furthermore, whole-grain options are especially beneficial, providing antioxidants that support overall health. When included in varied meals containing nutrient-dense foods like vegetables and lean proteins, orzo can contribute significantly to daily nutritional goals.

How to Cook Orzo Perfectly

Cooking orzo involves boiling it until it reaches a firm, chewy texture. Avoid common mistakes to ensure the best results.

Cooking Methods

Boiling is the primary method for cooking orzo. First, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a tablespoon of salt to season the water. For each cup of dried orzo, use about 3 quarts of water. Pour the orzo into the boiling water and cook for 7-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Drain using a colander, and if not using immediately, rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents overcooking and ensures the orzo remains perfect for your dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid using too little water. Orzo needs plenty of space to expand. Using inadequate water can lead to sticky pasta. Don’t add oil to the cooking water; it prevents sauces from adhering properly. Stir occasionally while cooking to prevent clumping.

Taste the orzo a minute or two before the recommended cooking time. This ensures you achieve the desired texture. Overcooking makes it mushy, compromising the dish’s quality.

Versatility of Orzo in Recipes

Orzo, a versatile pasta shape, fits seamlessly into both traditional and innovative dishes. Its adaptability allows it to enhance flavors in soups, salads, and main courses.

Popular Orzo Dishes

Orzo Salad: Orzo pairs well with grape tomatoes, cucumbers, flat leaf parsley, and crumbled feta cheese, often finished with toasted breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Such salads offer freshness and are easy to prepare.

One-Pot Seafood Orzo Risotto: This dish combines orzo with seafood, cooked on the stovetop before being broiled. It stands out for its simplicity and flavor depth, similar to paella but easier to execute.

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup: Combining chicken broth, savory vegetables, tender chicken, herbs, and fresh lemon, this soup is comforting and flavorful. The orzo adds a satisfying texture, making it a favored dish in many households.

Creative Uses in Cuisine

Orzo with Sliced Mushrooms: Orzo cooked with cremini or shiitake mushrooms, white wine, and vegetable broth becomes tender and creamy. Adding butter and Parmesan enhances its richness, creating a luxurious side or main dish.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Orzo: By sautéing orzo with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and butter, then boiling it in chicken stock or water, the pasta absorbs flavors deeply. The end result is a rich, creamy base that can pair with a variety of proteins or vegetables.

Orzo Skillet: A skillet meal can include orzo with vegetables like spinach and bell peppers, seasoned with garlic and herbs. This method makes for a quick, nutritious weeknight dinner option.

Orzo's ability to adapt to different flavors and cooking methods makes it invaluable in diverse culinary contexts.