As the crisp autumn air begins to embrace us, the kitchen turns into my favorite sanctuary. The delicate aroma of shallots sizzling with pancetta wafts through the air, instantly lifting my spirits and beckoning family to gather around the table. In search of a dish that truly embodies the essence of Thanksgiving, I stumbled upon this delightful recipe for Thanksgiving Peas. This isn’t your average vegetable side; it’s a colorful medley that marries sweet pears with vibrant peas, all brought together by a hint of Dijon mustard and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with turkey, but it’s also an effortless option for any weeknight meal when you’re craving something fresh and comforting. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is not only quick to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a touch of elegance to your dining table. So, let’s dive in and elevate your holiday feast with these scrumptious Thanksgiving Peas!
Why are Thanksgiving Peas a Game-Changer?
Irresistible Combination: The pairing of crunchy pancetta and sweet pears elevates the simple pea to a gourmet level, making your holiday table unforgettable.
Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this flavorful side, perfect for last-minute holiday prep or an easy weeknight treat.
Versatile Dish: Pair it seamlessly with turkey, chicken, or even serve it cold as a refreshing salad.
Vibrant Presentation: The bright green peas and golden pancetta create a visually stunning dish that will impress your guests.
For even more delicious options, check out our collection of easy vegetable sides!
Fresh Flavor: A splash of lemon and fresh parsley brings a lively twist that enhances each bite, making the dish not just a side, but a star.
Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients
For the Base
• Pancetta – This adds a savory depth that beautifully complements the sweetness of the peas and pear.
• Shallots – Their mild flavor enhances the dish while providing a delightful aroma as they sauté.
• Frozen Peas – Convenient and sweet, these vibrant peas are the star of our Thanksgiving Peas recipe!
For the Fruity Twist
• Pear – Adds a luscious sweetness that balances the salty pancetta perfectly.
• Lemon – Zested and juiced, it brings brightness and acidity that lifts the entire dish.
For the Garnish
• Parsley – This fresh herb adds color and a touch of earthiness, enhancing the flavor profile.
• Dijon Mustard – Just a teaspoon adds a subtle tang that elevates the taste experience.
• Black Pepper – Freshly ground for the best flavor, it gives a nice kick to round off the dish.
Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to embark on this delightful cooking journey and create your own Thanksgiving Peas! Enjoy!
How to Make Thanksgiving Peas
-
Prepare the Pear: Peel, slice, and small dice the pear. Toss it in a small bowl with lemon juice to prevent browning. Set this beautiful mixture aside to combine flavors.
-
Cook the Pancetta: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta, cooking until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
-
Sauté the Shallots: In the same skillet, drain off excess fat but leave about 3 tablespoons. Add the sliced shallots and sauté for about a minute, stirring until softened, then mix in the Dijon mustard for added zing.
-
Combine Ingredients: Add the frozen peas and the diced pears to the skillet. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes, until the peas are heated through and the pears are slightly tender.
-
Finish the Dish: Turn off the heat, then fold in half of the crispy pancetta, chopped parsley, and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance the flavors and make your Thanksgiving Peas shine!
-
Serve: Transfer the vibrant mixture to a large serving bowl, top it with the remaining pancetta, and garnish with the zested lemon for a beautiful finish.
Optional: Sprinkle a bit more fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas
• Perfect Pancetta: Make sure to cook the pancetta until it’s crispy to enhance the dish’s texture and flavor. Don’t rush this step!
• Sweet Pears: Choose ripe pears to ensure they add the ideal sweetness; under-ripe pears can be bland in this recipe.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh lemon juice and parsley for the best flavor and aroma in your Thanksgiving Peas. Dried herbs won’t yield the same vibrant results.
• Avoid Overcooking: Be mindful not to overcook the peas; they should be bright green and tender to retain their sweet flavor.
• Flavor Balance: Adjust the black pepper to your taste—start with a little and add more if desired, balancing it beautifully with the sweet elements.
Thanksgiving Peas Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful dish truly your own!
- Vegetarian: Swap pancetta for sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for a delicious meat-free option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle heat that complements the sweetness of the peas and pears.
- Nutty Flavor: Toss in toasted walnuts or pecans to provide a lovely crunch that enhances the texture.
- Herb Twist: Replace parsley with fresh thyme or tarragon for a unique herbal note that elevates the dish.
- Citrus Splash: Experiment with lime or orange juice instead of lemon to introduce a different brightness to your Thanksgiving Peas.
- Creamy Touch: Stir in a tablespoon of crème fraîche or sour cream at the end for a rich, creamy finish that envelops each bite.
- Savory Broth: Use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water when reheating for an extra layer of flavor that warms the heart.
- Freestyle Addition: Consider adding diced bell peppers or carrots for a vibrant vegetable medley that makes the dish even more colorful and hearty.
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving Peas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can chop the shallots and dice the pear up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can cook the pancetta in advance and store it separately to maintain its crispy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat a skillet, add the shallots, and follow the final cooking steps with the peas and pear mixture. This way, you’ll achieve that delightful, fresh taste that elevates your Thanksgiving Peas, all while saving precious time!
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Peas
Fridge: Store leftover Thanksgiving Peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you wish to freeze, place cooled peas in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of water to moisten.
Serving Suggestions: Consider serving reheated Thanksgiving Peas as a side or incorporated into a fresh salad for a quick meal!
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas?
Enhance your Thanksgiving feast with delightful sides that bring out the best in your vibrant peas dish.
-
Roasted Turkey: A classic pairing! The tender, juicy turkey beautifully complements the sweet and savory flavors of the peas.
-
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These rich, buttery potatoes provide a comforting texture that contrasts wonderfully with the crisp pancetta and sweet pears.
-
Cranberry Sauce: The tangy brightness of homemade cranberry sauce balances the savory elements of the Thanksgiving Peas, creating a harmonious plate.
-
Garlic Green Beans: The crunch of fresh green beans tossed in garlic adds a delightful flavor and keeps the festive theme alive at the table.
-
Stuffing: A warm, herby stuffing brings rustic charm to your holiday meal while accentuating the delightful sweet and savory balance in the peas.
-
Apple Pie: For dessert, the warm, spiced sweetness of apple pie rounds off the meal beautifully, echoing the sweetness of the pears.
-
Chilled Sparkling Cider: A refreshing beverage that adds a festive touch to your gathering while enhancing the meal’s flavors with its crispness.
Embrace these pairing options, and let your Thanksgiving Peas shine as the centerpiece of a memorable holiday meal!
Thanksgiving Peas Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the perfect pears for this dish?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select ripe pears that yield slightly to pressure. They should have a sweet aroma and rich golden color; avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel too hard.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Thanksgiving Peas can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to allow them to cool completely before storing to retain their freshness!
Can I freeze Thanksgiving Peas?
Yes, you can! After cooking, allow the peas to cool completely. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Press out as much air as possible and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen peas?
To reheat, thaw your Thanksgiving Peas overnight in the fridge. Then, heat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! This dish contains pancetta, which is pork. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute with smoked paprika or mushrooms to mimic the smokiness. Always check for allergies related to nuts, as some might be sensitive to cross-contamination depending on how ingredients are processed.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Of course! If you decide to use fresh peas, blanch them in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the skillet. This way, you’ll maintain the vibrant color and tender texture much like frozen peas, but with an even fresher taste.
Delicious Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel, slice, and small dice the pear. Toss it in a small bowl with lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta, cooking until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
- In the same skillet, drain off excess fat but leave about 3 tablespoons. Add the sliced shallots and sauté for about a minute, then mix in the Dijon mustard.
- Add the frozen peas and diced pears to the skillet. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes, until peas are heated through and pears are slightly tender.
- Turn off the heat, then fold in half of the crispy pancetta, chopped parsley, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Transfer to a large serving bowl, top with remaining pancetta, and garnish with zested lemon.