Discover how to cook orzo for the best results. The great news about orzo pasta is that it can be cooked in a number of ways, depending on how you're planning to use it.
Because of the small size and rice-like shape, it can be cooked in much the same way as rice. However, as it is technically a type of pasta, you can also cook it in exactly the same way as any other pasta. Find out more about the different methods below – plus, the easiest way to enjoy orzo for lunch.
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Orzo pasta: three preparation methods
Method 1:
Bring a pan of salted water to the boil. Add the orzo and cook for 8-9 minutes. Drain.
Method 2:
Place the orzo in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Season and bring to the boil. Taste frequently for doneness as soon as the water begins boiling.
Method 3:
Heat a couple tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan, add a finely chopped onion and the orzo, and sauté for two to three minutes. Then cover with hot vegetable or chicken stock and simmer for a further 10 minutes.
Method 4:
If using orzo in a stew or soup, simply add it in the last five minutes of cooking.
Orzo pasta recipe: the best way to enjoy orzo for lunch
After cooking, let the orzo cool down a little. Then simply add some cherry tomatoes and feta and drizzle with a little olive oil. For a more substantial lunch option, add some cooked chicken breast. Top off with Parmesan.
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