Barilla expands its chickpea pasta line with a versatile shape

From pasta salads to soups, orzo is often considered a highly versatile shape. As people discover plant-based pasta options, they want more than just another box of penne. Barilla just added orzo chickpea pasta to its line-up and many people are starting to discover some new recipes.

While culinary competitions might scoff when chefs decide to cook risotto, many home cooks appreciate that orzo can be transformed into a pasta meal. When a luscious, creamy risotto is wanted, that orzo is given the love and care to make that perfect bite. But, for those people who prefer a plant-based pasta, the shelf was empty, until now.

The Barilla orzo chickpea pasta joins its other plant-based pasta offerings. The single ingredient pasta joins the other offerings, which include Chickpea Orzo, Chickpea Penne, Chickpea Spaghetti, Chickpea Rotini, Red Lentil Penne, Red Lentil Spaghetti and Red Lentil Rotini. Many people turn to this particular plant-based pasta because it is just a single ingredient.

As Jean-Pierre Comte, President of Barilla Americas, said, “As a leader in pasta, we understand that consumers are always looking for versatile pasta cuts and shapes that can be featured in a variety of unique dishes. Chickpea Orzo is one that can be used outside of traditional pasta recipes, and we’re excited to see what our fans can create. The options are truly endless.”

Launching this pasta going into the summer months is smart for Barilla. Many people use orzo in a pasta salad. The smaller shape lends itself to easy eating. More importantly, it can adapt to a variety of flavors. From a simple salad featuring a vinaigrette with summer vegetables to Executive Chef of Barilla America, Lorenzo Boni’s Chickpea Orzo Tabbouleh Salad, the recipe options are numerous.

For anyone who would like to try Chef Boni’s Tabbouleh Salad, the full recipe can be found online. In summary, the salad includes plum tomatoes, English cucumber, lemon, juice, herbs and the Barilla Chickpea Orzo. Many people will appreciate this dish during the warm months since the herbs, like mint, bring a bright, refreshing flavor to the table. When combined with all the vegetables, it has contrasting textures, a depth of flavor, and feels light while satisfying even the heartiest appetite.

While this recipe is just one option, the plant-based pasta can be used in a risotto or even a component in an appetizer. It is a simple swap for any favorite orzo dish. The pasta’s texture feels the same as a traditional option.

The Barilla Orzo Chickpea Pasta can be found at Kroger and Meijer starting in April. More retailers are set to carry the pasta later in the year.