Recipe from DolceItalia.com
Penne with Chocolate Wine Sauce
By Francine Segan


Serves 6

2 cups red wine
9 ounces pitted prunes, chopped
2 ounces Italian dark chocolate, such as Perugina, Vanini or Venchi
8 tablespoons butter, 1 stick, softened
2 shallots, finely minced
1 pound penne
Salt and pepper
Parmesan cheese, grated

Combine the wine and prunes in a saucepan and bring to a low boil over medium heat. Simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the mixture is thickened.

Remove from the heat and melt in the Italian dark chocolate to taste. Allow to cool slightly and puree in a food processor until smooth.

Meanwhile, cook the penne according to package directions.

Drain and place the pasta into a serving bowl with the butter and shallots. Stir until the butter is melted.

Toss with the warm sauce, season to taste with salt and pepper and top with Parmesan.