Orzo keeps you feeling full. "It mostly provides carbohydrates that release energy slowly and prolongs the sense of satiety. It also promotes proper functioning of the metabolism, the mechanism that if it works effectively burns energy and calories quicker. It contains minerals such as magnesium and zinc, which stimulate the efforts of the thyroid gland and B vitamins, which are involved in the metabolic functions," explains nutritionist Schirò.
Text by Angela Altomare
Orzo and chickpea salad recipe
This is a very versatile dish that you can enhance in many ways. The basic ingredients are chickpeas and barley. Here is a very simple version with Tropea onion, cherry tomatoes and aromatic herbs such as basil and mint. You can also add some diced feta for more flavor, a sauce made with yogurt and lemon to give acidity or diced smoked salmon if you love flavors from the sea.
How to cook chickpeas
You can prepare chickpeas by soaking them for 12 hours and then cooking them in boiling water; or you can buy them ready in a glass jar but rinse them thoroughly before use. As a variation you can use spelt or brown rice instead of orzo or make a mix of cereals. For a more delicate touch use quinoa, even if it’s not a real cereal!