Orzo with Chorizo and Peppers Recipe

There are some dishes that have the power to transport you to a different place and time with just one bite. “Orzo with Chorizo and Peppers” is one such marvel, combining the distinctive richness of chorizo with the aromatic freshness of peppers and the delicate texture of orzo pasta. 

This dish is not just a blend of flavors but also a fusion of different culinary cultures, telling a captivating tale of gastronomic heritage.

Ingredients

1 cup orzo

8 oz chorizo, sliced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

1 green bell pepper, sliced

1 onion, finely chopped

3 cloves of garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1

Cook the orzo according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook until browned and crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove the chorizo from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3

In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Step 4

Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they are slightly softened but still retain some crunch.

Step 5

Return the chorizo to the skillet and mix well with the peppers and onion.

Step 6

Sprinkle the smoked paprika and dried oregano over the mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to coat the ingredients evenly.

Step 7

Add the cooked orzo to the skillet and gently toss everything together until well combined.

Step 8

Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 9

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.

Step 10

Serve the Orzo with Chorizo and Peppers hot, and enjoy!

Enhance Your Orzo Experience with RiceSelect

For the best results in this recipe, we recommend using RiceSelect’s high-quality orzo. RiceSelect takes pride in sourcing only the finest grains for their products, ensuring exceptional taste and texture. 

Their orzo is made from premium durum wheat semolina, providing a firm and satisfying bite that pairs perfectly with the flavors of chorizo and peppers. You can find RiceSelect’s orzo here: https://riceselect.com/product/orzo to elevate your cooking to a whole new level.

Secrets of Preparation

To ensure the perfect outcome of your Orzo with Chorizo and Peppers, there are a few secrets to keep in mind. Firstly, be sure to cook the orzo al dente, which means it should be tender but still firm to the bite. This will prevent it from becoming mushy and help it retain its shape when mixed with the other ingredients.

Next, the chorizo plays a crucial role in adding depth and smokiness to the dish. Opt for a high-quality chorizo with a good balance of spices. You can choose between cured or fresh chorizo, depending on your preference. Cured chorizo will add a richer and more intense flavor, while fresh chorizo will provide a lighter and more vibrant taste.

Accompaniments

Orzo with Chorizo and Peppers is a complete dish on its own, but if you want to add a little extra to your meal, consider the following accompaniments:

Garlic Bread: A slice of warm and crusty garlic bread will complement the flavors of the dish and soak up any leftover sauce.

Green Salad: A refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the orzo and chorizo.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasting a medley of seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes, can create a colorful and nutritious side dish.

Types of Peppers to Elevate Your Recipe

When it comes to adding flavor and vibrancy to your Orzo with Chorizo and Peppers, choosing the right types of peppers can make all the difference. Here are a few varieties that work exceptionally well in this recipe:

Red Bell Peppers: Red bell peppers are a popular choice for their sweet and slightly tangy flavor. They add a vibrant pop of color to the dish and complement the smoky taste of chorizo perfectly. The sweetness of red bell peppers balances out the spiciness of the sausage, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Yellow Bell Peppers: If you’re looking to add a milder and slightly fruity taste to your dish, consider using yellow bell peppers. They have a subtly sweet flavor with a hint of tanginess. Yellow bell peppers also contribute to the visual appeal of the recipe, adding a splash of sunshine to the plate.

Green Bell Peppers: Green bell peppers have a slightly bitter and more pronounced pepper flavor compared to their red and yellow counterparts. They provide a refreshing crunch and a subtle bitterness that complements the richness of the chorizo. If you enjoy a more robust and earthy taste, green bell peppers are an excellent choice.

Poblano Peppers: For those seeking a touch of mild spiciness and smokiness, poblano peppers are a fantastic option. These peppers have a rich, complex flavor profile that adds depth to the dish. Roasting the poblano peppers before incorporating them into the recipe intensifies their smoky flavor, providing a delightful contrast to the chorizo.

Proper Storage

If you happen to have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply transfer the desired portion to a skillet and warm it over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent the dish from drying out.

The Orzo with Chorizo and Peppers dish is a true culinary gem. It’s a celebration of diverse culinary traditions, combining flavors and ingredients from different corners of the world. Its simplicity belies its rich taste and textural complexity, making it a versatile choice for any meal. 

Above all, its versatility is reflected in the different ways you can tweak the recipe, experiment with accompaniments, or even store it for a later feast.