Name: Orzo "Risotto"
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Makes 10 side-dish servings
Ingredients: 1 (1-lb) box orzo (rice-shaped pasta; not Greek); 2 cups chicken stock or low-sodium broth; 1 packed teaspoon finely grated fresh orange zest; 1/4 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme; 2 oz finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (1 cup); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

This is a delicious, low-maintenance alternative to traditional risotto.

Cooks' note:

Orzo can be parboiled 2 days ahead, then tossed with 1 tablespoon olive oil and chilled, covered. Bring to room temperature (or run under hot water in a colander)before proceeding.

Recipe notes

Caramelized Onion Pasta

Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Golden Mushroom Soup With Orzo & a Pat of Butter

This is the type of soup that, at first glance, might seem a little…unexciting. But you’re underestimating the power of mushrooms, which do the heavy lifting.

Classic French Bouillabaisse With Rouille

This flexible recipe is all you need to bring this iconic Provençal seafood stew to your table.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Mascarpone Cheesecake

An extra-silky filling (no water bath needed!) and a smooth sour cream topping make this the ultimate cheesecake.

Crème Anglaise

The silky French vanilla sauce that goes with everything.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.