Rustichella d’Abruzzo Orzo

Orzo means “barley” in Italian because of its grain-shape. This pasta, shaped like a melon seed, belongs to what Italians called Pastina: pasta that is used in soups. Unfortunately, this shape is often made with very low-gluten quality semolina, so it becomes mushy and unpleasant. Unlike common orzos, this orzo from Rustichella d’Abruzzo keeps its shape and texture and has a real, pleasurable bite and texture. Especially great for use in soups, but also wonderful as a contorno (“side dish”) with pesto or in salads.