What pasta shape resembles rice?

Orzo is the pasta shape that resembles rice due to its small, grain-like size and shape. This type of pasta is often used in soups, salads, and side dishes, where its texture and appearance can mimic that of rice. The small size and elongated, oval shape make it unique among other pasta types and particularly suitable for dishes where a lighter, rice-like presence is desired.

In contrast, the other listed pasta shapes are larger and have distinct forms. Fusilli is spiral-shaped, penne is a tubular pasta cut diagonally at the ends, and cavatappi has a twisted, corkscrew shape. These shapes do not approximate the appearance or texture of rice, making orzo the clear choice among the options presented.