Orzo maintains its shape and color dulls slightly when cooked. Traditionally, Orzo has been used with rice to make Pilafs. Orzo like many pastas, has become a flexible and versatile ingredient. Orzo in Italian this means barley. Since pasta doesn't contain any Barley the name is probably in reference to the shape of Orzo. Pasta has been a main stay ingredient in Italian cooking for centuries. Orzo is just one of the many shapes developed for specific uses. It's actually a tiny, rice-shaped pasta, slightly smaller than a Pine Nut. Orzo is ideal for soups and wonderful when served as a substitute for rice.
Orzo can be combined with any number of herbs, vegetables and seafood for an unusual and striking plate presentation. Use in Pilafs, salads, sauces or simply dressed with a light pesto.