Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe Wine KitchenCocoa Orecchiette Recipe

Cocoa Orecchiette Recipe

Inspired by The Wine Kitchen
Time1h 30m
Serves4

Cocoa infused orecchiette pasta with fall spiced butternut squash, toasted mushrooms, olives, olive oil glaze and breadcrumbs.

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Mushrooms

Olive Oil Glaze

Breadcrumbs

Method

Pasta Preparation

  1. 1

    Make the Dough

    In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Using a fork, gradually mix the flour into the eggs until a dough begins to form.

  2. 2

    Knead the Dough

    Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Wrap in plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.

  3. 3

    Shape Orecchiette

    After resting, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thick and cut into small circles using a cookie cutter. Use your thumb to shape each circle into an orecchiette shape.

Butternut Squash Preparation

  1. 4

    Roast the Squash

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.

Mushroom Preparation

  1. 5

    Sauté the Mushrooms

    In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Once fragrant, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt to taste.

Olive Oil Glaze Preparation

  1. 6

    Make the Glaze

    In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, and salt until well combined.

Breadcrumb Preparation

  1. 7

    Prepare the Breadcrumbs

    In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs and cook, stirring often, until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese.

Final Assembly

  1. 8

    Combine and Serve

    Cook the orecchiette in salted boiling water for about 3-4 minutes until al dente. Drain and toss with roasted butternut squash, sautéed mushrooms, and olive oil glaze. Serve topped with toasted breadcrumbs.

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