Orzo is a versatile pasta used in many recipes, but is orzo gluten-free? Read on for the answer and practical substitutes for this rice-shaped pasta, including gluten-free orzo brands.
What is Orzo?
Orzo, also known as risoni, is a small Italian pasta shaped like a large grain of rice. Classified in Italy as a type of pastina—or “little pasta”—orzo is used in a wide range of dishes, from comforting soups and hearty grain bowls to chilled pasta salads. Its compact, rice-like shape makes it especially versatile for recipes that call for small, bite-sized pasta.
Although orzo originated in Italy, it has been adapted into many cuisines. Examples include Italian wedding soup, the traditional Greek giouvetsi (a one-pot beef and tomato dish), and various brothy orzo soups found across the Middle East and West Africa, often served with chicken stock and spices.
Note: The name orzo comes from the Italian word for barley, a nod to its barley-like shape.
Is Orzo Gluten-Free?
Traditional orzo is not gluten-free. Most orzo is made from wheat semolina, which is derived from durum wheat, though some versions use all-purpose or whole wheat flour. Because these flours contain gluten—a protein present in wheat, barley, and rye—traditional orzo is unsuitable for people with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
For anyone avoiding gluten, there are several gluten-free pasta options that can serve as replacements for orzo, including purpose-made gluten-free orzo products.
What Are the Best Gluten-Free Alternatives to Orzo?
If you need a gluten-free substitute for regular orzo, consider these options ordered by closeness to traditional orzo in texture and function:
- Gluten-free orzo made specifically to mimic traditional orzo. These products are typically based on rice, corn, or other gluten-free flours and are often the easiest swap.
- Arborio rice, a short, starchy rice whose shape and creamy texture in some dishes make it a good stand-in for orzo.
Other workable substitutes, depending on the recipe, include:
- Broken gluten-free spaghetti—break the strands into small pieces for a pasta-like texture similar to orzo.
- Small gluten-free pastas such as macaroni or small penne, which can fill the same role in soups, salads, and casseroles.
- Whole grains like long-grain white rice, brown rice, quinoa, or millet for a grain-based alternative.
- Cauliflower rice for a low-carb, grain-free option that works well in many recipes where texture is more important than exact shape.
Delallo Gluten-Free Orzo
Delallo offers a gluten-free orzo that many home cooks find to be an excellent substitute. Typically made from a blend of rice and corn flours, this product cooks up with good texture, resists clumping, and holds an al dente bite when prepared properly.
Jovial Grain-Free Orzo
Jovial produces a grain-free orzo made from cassava flour. This option is suitable for those seeking a grain-free alternative and works well in many recipes where a similar shape and mouthfeel to wheat orzo are desirable.
Favorite Recipes Made with Gluten-Free Orzo
Gluten-free orzo can be used in a variety of dishes. Popular preparations include:
- Gluten-free lemon chicken orzo soup—similar to chicken noodle soup but brightened with lemon and dill.
- Gluten-free broccoli and cheese casserole made with orzo and a creamy cheese sauce for a comforting side or main.
- Gluten-free orzo pasta salad with vegetables like tomatoes, olives, red onion, and broccoli tossed in a fresh dressing.
Gluten-Free Orzo FAQ
No. Traditional orzo is made from wheat flour such as semolina, all-purpose, or whole wheat, so it contains gluten.
Yes. Several brands produce gluten-free orzo made from rice, corn, cassava, or other gluten-free ingredients.
Traditional orzo is high in gluten because its primary ingredient is wheat flour.
Gluten-free orzo can be found at many online retailers and in larger supermarkets or specialty stores that carry gluten-free products.
Although orzo looks like rice, traditional orzo is made from wheat.
No. Barilla orzo is made from wheat flour; Barilla does not currently offer a gluten-free orzo product.
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Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes and reflects the author’s opinions. This is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before making dietary changes. Product ingredients may change—always check labels for current information.