Orzo is a versatile ingredient that works beautifully in both hot and cold dishes, carrying flavors from fresh Mediterranean vegetables to rich, creamy sauces. Its rice-like shape makes it a fun alternative to traditional pasta and an easy choice for hearty salads, flavorful soups, and satisfying main courses. These recipes highlight different ways to prepare orzo, from light and refreshing salads to warm, comforting meals that are ideal for any time of year. Each dish brings its own unique combination of textures and flavors, making this collection a celebration of orzo’s adaptability in the kitchen.

Greek Orzo Salad with Feta

A bowl of flavorful orzo pasta salad with spinach, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, and red onion sits on a white surface next to a fork, loose spinach leaves, and a bowl of whole cherry tomatoes. Perfect for orzo recipes!.
Greek Orzo Salad with Feta. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This salad blends orzo with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and briny feta cheese for a bright, refreshing flavor. A drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice ties the ingredients together with a simple, zesty touch. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill bring an added layer of freshness. It’s a quick and colorful dish that’s easy to prepare ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Greek Orzo Salad with Feta

Pesto Orzo Pasta Salad

Pesto Orzo Pasta Salad. Photo credit: We Eat At Last.

Orzo is tossed with vibrant basil pesto, creating a fresh and aromatic base for the dish. Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy bite while pine nuts offer a pleasant crunch. You can enjoy it warm or chilled, making it a versatile option for any meal. The combination of flavors brings a taste of Italy to your table in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Pasta Salad

Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup

Buffalo chicken soup with orzo served in a bowl with blue cheese crumbles and green onion.
Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This hearty soup blends tender orzo with shredded chicken in a flavorful buffalo-style broth. A splash of hot sauce and creamy cheese give it a comforting yet spicy character. Celery and carrots provide a nice texture contrast and added flavor. It’s a warm, satisfying bowl with a little heat in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Orzo Soup

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad. Photo credit: My Everyday Table.

A mix of orzo, Kalamata olives, red onion, and bell peppers creates a colorful and flavorful base. Feta cheese crumbles throughout the salad give it a creamy and tangy accent. A simple dressing of olive oil, lemon, and oregano keeps it light yet flavorful. The result is a Mediterranean-inspired dish that works well for gatherings or quick lunches.
Get the Recipe: Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Tuna Orzo Salad

A bowl of Mediterranean-style salad with orzo, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, olives, red peppers, tuna, and a lemon wedge, garnished with basil.
Mediterranean Tuna Orzo Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Flaked tuna is combined with orzo, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a protein-packed salad. Fresh herbs add brightness while a lemon-olive oil dressing keeps it light. Capers bring a briny burst that complements the tuna beautifully. It’s a satisfying mix of flavors and textures in each bite.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Tuna Orzo Salad

Orzo Salad with Black Beans and Corn

Orzo Salad with Black Beans and Corn. Photo credit: Vanilla Bean Cuisine.

This salad combines orzo with black beans, sweet corn, and diced bell peppers for a colorful presentation. Cilantro and lime juice bring a fresh, zesty flavor. A light vinaigrette ties everything together without overpowering the other ingredients. It’s a great option for a chilled lunch or as a side for grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Orzo Salad with Black Beans and Corn

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.
Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Basil pesto coats the orzo in rich, herby flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh cherry tomatoes. Mozzarella pearls add a creamy bite, and toasted pine nuts bring a satisfying crunch. It works well as a main dish or side for Italian-inspired meals. The balance of textures makes every bite interesting.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Succulent shrimp are combined with orzo, cucumbers, and tomatoes for a light yet filling dish. A drizzle of lemon juice and olive oil enhances the natural flavors of the seafood. Fresh dill or parsley adds a fragrant touch. This combination is great served chilled on warm days.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad

Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant give this salad a smoky depth of flavor. The vegetables are tossed with orzo and fresh herbs for a bright finish. A tangy vinaigrette adds just the right amount of acidity. It’s a colorful way to enjoy seasonal produce.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad

Baked Chicken and Orzo

A plate with baked chicken thigh and orzo pasta mixed with tomatoes, garnished with herbs, with a fork and knife beside.
Baked Chicken and Orzo. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Tender chicken breasts are baked alongside orzo in a flavorful broth. The pasta absorbs all the juices, making each bite rich and savory. Aromatic herbs and garlic enhance the depth of flavor. It’s a comforting and filling one-pan meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Chicken and Orzo

Orzo Salad

Orzo Salad. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

A simple combination of orzo, fresh vegetables, and a light dressing makes this salad endlessly adaptable. You can mix in whatever seasonal produce you have on hand. Fresh herbs add a pop of flavor without overpowering the dish. It’s an easy base recipe that you can make your own.
Get the Recipe: Orzo Salad

Summer Orzo Salad

Summer orzo pasta salad in a while serving bowl on a whitewashed background next to a bowl of green beans.
Summer Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

This salad features orzo with crisp summer vegetables like corn, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini. A citrusy dressing keeps it fresh and bright. Fresh basil or mint brings a light herbal note. It’s a vibrant dish that’s as colorful as it is tasty.
Get the Recipe: Summer Orzo Salad

Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Bowls

Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Bowls. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

Juicy chicken pieces are paired with orzo, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce. The combination of warm and cool elements creates a satisfying balance. A sprinkle of feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy touch. These bowls are great for meal prepping ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Orzo Bowls

Brown Butter Shrimp and Orzo

Brown Butter Shrimp and Orzo. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Shrimp are cooked in rich brown butter, giving them a nutty and savory flavor. The orzo soaks up the buttery sauce, making every bite indulgent. Fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice keep it from feeling too heavy. It’s a quick yet luxurious seafood dish.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Shrimp and Orzo

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Chicken is simmered in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic. The orzo cooks right in the sauce, absorbing all the rich flavors. Parmesan cheese gives the dish a salty, cheesy depth. It’s a hearty, comforting meal with a touch of elegance.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo

Mediterranean Chicken With Orzo

Image shows an overhead shot of Image shows in a white bowl and a black background.
Mediterranean Chicken With Orzo. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Seasoned chicken is served over orzo mixed with vegetables and olives. A drizzle of lemon juice brightens the overall flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or oregano add a final touch of freshness. It’s a simple yet flavorful combination that’s easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken With Orzo

Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

A plate of orzo pasta topped with sliced grilled chicken, garnished with parsley and lemon. Nearby are bell peppers, lemons, and a bowl of grated cheese on a red patterned cloth.
Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Tender chicken pieces are tossed with orzo in a light lemon sauce. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition while garlic infuses the dish with warmth. The citrus keeps the flavors lively and bright. This is a dish that feels both comforting and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

Spinach Orzo Salad

This photo shows a spinach orzo salad in a square glass bowl sitting on a black granite countertop.
Spinach Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

Fresh spinach leaves are combined with orzo, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. A tangy vinaigrette complements the freshness of the vegetables. Feta cheese adds a creamy, salty note. It’s a crisp and flavorful salad that’s quick to assemble.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Orzo Salad

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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