Orzo, a type of pasta that resembles rice, is popular in a wide variety of dishes such as salads, soups, and side dishes.
Its small, rice-like shape makes it perfect for absorbing flavors, and it’s often used as a substitute for rice or couscous.
However, if you run out of orzo or need an alternative due to dietary restrictions, there are plenty of great substitutes that can provide similar texture and flavor.
Contents
10 Best Substitutes for Orzo Pasta
In this guide, we’ll explore the best substitutes for orzo pasta, giving you options that can seamlessly replace orzo in your recipes.
1. Couscous
Couscous is a small, granulated pasta made from semolina wheat, and it is often considered the most similar substitute for orzo. The texture of couscous is light and fluffy, much like orzo, and it has a neutral flavor that works well in salads, soups, and side dishes.
How to use: Couscous can be used as a 1:1 substitute for orzo in most dishes. Its quick cooking time (just a few minutes) makes it an easy alternative for orzo in recipes where you need a small, light pasta-like element.
2. Rice
Rice is a versatile, widely available substitute for orzo. It can provide the same texture and can absorb flavors in a similar way. Long-grain white rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice can work best because they remain separate when cooked and don’t become too sticky, maintaining the lightness that orzo provides.
How to use: For soups or salads, you can swap rice for orzo at a 1:1 ratio. If you’re making a dish like pilaf or casserole, cook the rice separately and then mix it into your dish. Be mindful of cooking times since rice usually takes longer to cook than orzo.
3. Quinoa
Quinoa is an excellent gluten-free alternative to orzo, offering a similar fluffy texture and lightness. It’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a more nutritious choice. Quinoa can be used in place of orzo in a variety of dishes, especially if you’re looking for a health-conscious swap.
How to use: Substitute quinoa in a 1:1 ratio for orzo. You may need to adjust cooking times slightly, as quinoa takes a bit longer to cook than orzo. Once cooked, quinoa provides a nice, nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture that mimics orzo in soups, salads, and casseroles.
4. Arborio Rice
Arborio rice, best known for its use in risotto, is another great substitute for orzo. The rice has a creamy, starchy texture that absorbs liquids well, making it a good option for dishes that typically call for orzo in soups or creamy casseroles.
How to use: Use 1:1 ratio of arborio rice for orzo in dishes like risotto or creamy pasta salads. Arborio rice works especially well in soups and creamy dishes, where the starch in the rice helps thicken the broth and gives the dish a rich, velvety texture.
5. Small Shell Pasta
Small shell pasta is another excellent alternative to orzo. Its small, rounded shape makes it a suitable replacement, especially for dishes like soups or pasta salads. While shell pasta is a bit larger than orzo, it can still deliver the right texture in most recipes.
How to use: Substitute small shell pasta in a 1:1 ratio for orzo. You can cook it the same way you would cook orzo, and it will work well in soups, pasta salads, and as a side dish.
6. Ditalini Pasta
Ditalini pasta, a small, short tube-shaped pasta, is an ideal orzo substitute, particularly for soups or salads. Its shape and size closely resemble that of orzo, and it’s able to absorb the flavors of the broth, much like orzo does.
How to use: Use ditalini pasta in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute for orzo. It can be cooked and used just like orzo in most recipes, and it adds a similar texture to the final dish.
7. Bulgur Wheat
Bulgur wheat is a whole grain that can easily replace orzo in many dishes. It has a nutty, hearty flavor and a chewy texture, and it absorbs liquid in a similar way to orzo. Bulgur is also an excellent source of fiber, making it a healthy substitute.
How to use: Bulgur wheat can be substituted for orzo in a 1:1 ratio. Since bulgur cooks much faster than rice, it’s perfect for quick salads, pilafs, or vegetarian dishes. Simply steam or soak it and then mix it into your dish.
8. Farro
Farro is a type of ancient wheat that has a nutty flavor and a chewy texture, making it a good substitute for orzo in salads, soups, or side dishes. Its hearty texture makes it a satisfying alternative, particularly if you are looking for a whole grain option with additional nutrients.
How to use: Replace orzo with farro in a 1:1 ratio. Farro will add a nutty flavor and a hearty texture to your dish. It works best in heavier broths or dishes with rich flavors where you want to add more texture and substance.
9. Pearl Couscous (Israeli Couscous)
Pearl couscous, also known as Israeli couscous, is a larger variety of couscous with a chewy texture. It is a perfect substitute for orzo in dishes where you need a bit more bite and a slightly firmer texture. Pearl couscous has a slightly nuttier flavor compared to traditional couscous, but it is still a fantastic orzo replacement.
How to use: Use pearl couscous in a 1:1 ratio to replace orzo. It’s great in soups, salads, or side dishes, and its larger size adds a unique texture to your dish.
10. Soba Noodles
Soba noodles, typically made from buckwheat flour, offer a unique texture and flavor compared to orzo, but they can work as a substitute in certain dishes. Their chewy, slightly nutty texture can provide a hearty alternative to orzo, particularly in soups or stir-fries.
How to use: Soba noodles can replace orzo in a 1:1 ratio. They are best suited for Japanese-inspired dishes, like miso soup or stir-fries, but they can also be used in place of orzo in more traditional Mediterranean recipes for a unique twist.
FAQs
Q: What is the best substitute for orzo in a soup?
A: For soups, the best substitutes for orzo are couscous, small shell pasta, or ditalini pasta. These options have similar textures to orzo and absorb the broth well without becoming mushy.
Q: Can I use rice instead of orzo?
A: Yes, rice can be used as a substitute for orzo. While the texture may differ, rice can mimic orzo’s function in soups or side dishes. For best results, use long-grain white rice or basmati rice, as these types have a less sticky texture compared to short-grain rice.
Q: Is bulgur wheat a good substitute for orzo?
A: Yes, bulgur wheat is an excellent substitute for orzo. It provides a nutty flavor and chewy texture similar to orzo and works well in salads, soups, and side dishes.
Q: Can I use soba noodles as a substitute for orzo?
A: While soba noodles have a different flavor profile, they can still be used as a substitute for orzo, particularly in soups and stir-fries. Their chewy texture makes them a hearty alternative to the more delicate orzo.
Conclusion
Orzo is a versatile ingredient, but there are many fantastic substitutes you can use depending on your dietary preferences, cooking style, and the dish you’re preparing.
Whether you choose couscous, rice, quinoa, or a whole grain option like farro or bulgur wheat, each substitute brings its own unique texture and flavor to the table.
By experimenting with these alternatives, you can recreate your favorite dishes with ease and enjoy the flexibility that these substitutions provide. Happy cooking!