Orzo, meaning “barley” in Italian, plays a unique role in the kitchen due to its striking resemblance to a grain of rice. This small pasta shape was traditionally used to fortify and thicken soups, instantly transforming a simple broth-based meal or Minestrone into a hearty main course. In modern cuisine, however, it serves as an excellent starch base for cold Mediterranean salads, as well as comforting baked dishes like Greek Giouvetsi or Italian Orzotto (a risotto-like preparation). Elevate the depth of your soups or explore new, creative pilaf forms with the versatility of Orzo.