As I was rummaging through my pantry, I couldn’t help but chuckle at the unexpected delight that came together—a vibrant mix of Thanksgiving peas with crispy pancetta and sweet pear. This recipe is a true gem, combining the savory allure of pancetta with the natural sweetness of pears, elevating your holiday table without breaking a sweat. The best part? It’s a quick side dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. You’ll find the zesty kick from lemon and Dijon mustard adds a delightful twist, making this dish as memorable as it is easy to prepare. Perfect for impressing your guests and satisfying your cravings, let’s dive into my favorite Thanksgiving peas recipe that promises to be a holiday favorite. What’s your go-to dish that never fails to wow at the holiday table?
Why Are Thanksgiving Peas So Special?
Delightfully Quick: This dish combines the ease of frozen peas with the richness of pancetta, making it perfect for busy holiday cooks.
Savory Sweetness: The sweet pears introduce a fruity contrast, beautifully balancing the savory elements for an unforgettable flavor experience.
Versatile Addition: Whether paired with roasted turkey or served at a buffet, these peas are a wonderful complement to any festive meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Simple yet sophisticated, this recipe impresses guests while remaining approachable for all skill levels.
Time-Saving Gem: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect side to whip up even on the busiest of Thanksgiving days.
Elevate your holiday meal this year with these Thanksgiving peas that your friends and family will rave about long after the leftovers are gone!
Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients
• For the Dish
- Pancetta – Adds savory richness and crunch; consider using pre-diced pancetta for convenience.
- Shallots – Provide sweetness and aromatic depth; use about 1 cup thinly sliced shallots for the best flavor.
- Dijon Mustard – Introduces a tangy flavor; it’s essential for balancing the sweetness of the pears in your Thanksgiving peas.
- Frozen Peas – The base of the dish, offering bright color and a sweet flavor; no need to thaw beforehand for easy prep.
- Pear – Adds natural sweetness and texture; you can substitute with a firm apple if unavailable.
- Lemon – Brightens the dish with acidity; you’ll need about 3 tablespoons of juice and 1 teaspoon of zest.
- Parsley – Fresh herb for garnish, adding color and a hint of earthiness to your holiday plate.
- Black Pepper – Enhances flavor; use to taste to elevate every bite.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear
Step 1: Prepare the Pear
Begin by peeling, slicing, and dicing the pear into bite-sized pieces. To prevent browning, mix the diced pear with about 2 tablespoons of lemon juice in a bowl. This not only keeps the pear looking fresh but also adds a zesty flavor. Set the prepared pear aside while you focus on the pancetta for your Thanksgiving peas.
Step 2: Cook Pancetta
In a medium skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and sauté for approximately 6–8 minutes, stirring often, until it turns crispy and golden. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess fat. This crispy essence will enhance the flavors in your Thanksgiving peas.
Step 3: Sauté Shallots
In the same skillet with the rendered pancetta fat, add about 1 cup of thinly sliced shallots. Sauté them for about 1 minute until softened and fragrant, stirring gently to absorb the delicious flavors left behind. Then, mix in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, allowing the heat to wake up the mustard’s tangy aroma that will complement your peas beautifully.
Step 4: Add Peas and Pears
Next, stir in the frozen peas (no need to thaw!) and the diced pears with all their lemony juices into the skillet. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through and the peas turn a bright, vibrant green. This combination of peas and sweet pear creates a stunning visual and a lovely harmony of flavors in your Thanksgiving peas dish.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Remove the skillet from heat and fold in half of the crispy pancetta, chopped parsley, and a pinch of black pepper to taste. This is where the Thanksgiving peas come together in a medley of colors and flavors. Serve the dish in a warm bowl, garnishing it with the remaining pancetta and a sprinkle of lemon zest for that extra festive flair.
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear
Enhance your festive feast with delightful accompaniments that beautifully complement this vibrant side dish.
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Roasted Turkey: This classic main dish pairs wonderfully, with the savory flavors of the turkey balancing nicely against the sweet and salty peas.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes add a heavenly richness that complements the crunchy pancetta and tender peas.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweetness of the glazed carrots mirrors the pears, creating a harmonious plate that delights both the eyes and taste buds.
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Wild Rice Pilaf: This nutty, hearty side brings a wonderful texture contrast and earthy flavor that complements the savory pancetta without overpowering the peas.
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Cranberry Sauce: A touch of tartness from the cranberry sauce enhances the sweet elements of the dish, making each bite more vibrant and festive.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: A refreshing drink that echoes the apple notes in the peas while providing a festive fizz that elevates your entire meal.
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Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, this classic choice rounds out the meal with warming spices and sweetness, letting the holiday spirit linger long after the last bite.
Embrace the flavors of the holiday with these perfect pairings, and make your Thanksgiving memorable!
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas
- Crispy Pancetta Secret: Make sure to cook pancetta until it is really crispy; this adds a delightful crunch to your Thanksgiving peas.
- Avoid Overcooking: Don’t cook the peas for too long to retain their vibrant color and sweet flavor; just a few minutes are enough.
- Lemon Precaution: Lemon juice helps prevent the pears from browning, but don’t skip the zest for that extra burst of citrus in your Thanksgiving peas.
- Ingredient Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the ingredient quantities based on your guests; this dish can be easily scaled up or down.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container; they taste delicious even after a few days in the fridge, just reheat gently!
Thanksgiving Peas Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize your Thanksgiving peas to match your family’s taste and dietary needs!
- Turkey Bacon: Swap pancetta for turkey bacon for a leaner, still savory twist that’s perfect for lighter holiday meals.
- Firm Apples: If pears are out of season, use diced firm apples for a similarly sweet contrast that pairs wonderfully with peas.
- Toasted Walnuts: Add a crunchy texture by folding in toasted walnuts; they’ll bring a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the dish beautifully.
- Herb Fusion: Experiment with herbs by adding fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic lift; simply sprinkle them in while sautéing shallots.
- Spicy Kick: Spice things up by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes; it’s an easy way to bring some heat to balance the sweet and savory notes.
- Vegan Delight: For a plant-based version, replace pancetta with smoked tofu and add nutritional yeast; it’ll create a rich, umami flavor.
- Creamy Variation: Stir in a dollop of cream or vegan sour cream at the end to add a creamy consistency that wraps all the flavors together nicely.
- Lemon Zest Kick: A little more lemon zest can elevate the brightness of the dish; consider using the zest of an extra lemon to enhance the citrus notes.
Your Thanksgiving peas can shine in many ways—even if you’re leaning towards some enticing alternatives, remember to make them your own! And don’t forget, these peas can be enjoyed beyond the festive season—try them alongside your favorite roasted meats or even in a refreshing salad for a delightful treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prep the pears and cook the pancetta up to 24 hours in advance—just mix the diced pears with lemon juice to prevent browning. Refrigerate the cooked pancetta in an airtight container until you’re ready to finish the dish. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the shallots, add the peas and pears, and stir in half of the pancetta along with the parsley. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll have a delicious side that’s as festive as it is easy, ready in no time to impress your guests!
Storage Tips for Thanksgiving Peas
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain texture.
Freezer: If you’d like to freeze your Thanksgiving peas, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can last for about 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the peas tender and maintain their vibrant color.
Serving Suggestions: Serve your reheated Thanksgiving peas as a side dish with roasted meats or refreshing salads for a delightful meal experience.
Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear Recipe FAQs
What type of frozen peas should I use?
Absolutely! You can use any variety of frozen green peas for this recipe—sweet garden peas usually work best. Avoid thawing them prior to cooking; just toss them straight into the skillet for a burst of freshness.
How should I store leftovers of Thanksgiving peas?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Make sure they’re cooled completely before sealing to help maintain their vibrant color and texture. Simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze Thanksgiving peas?
Yes, you can easily freeze this dish! To do so, let it cool completely, and then transfer the peas to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for about 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat them gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.
What if my pancetta doesn’t get crispy?
Very! If your pancetta isn’t getting crispy, ensure you’re cooking it over medium to medium-high heat and give it enough time—about 6-8 minutes should do the trick. If it’s still chewy, increase the heat slightly and continue cooking until it achieves a golden-brown texture. Remember to stir occasionally for even cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, you can substitute pancetta with turkey bacon for a leaner option, and for a vegetarian alternative, use smoked tempeh or mushrooms for that savory, umami flavor without meat. Always double-check for allergies related to your ingredients, particularly if serving to guests.
What can I serve with Thanksgiving peas?
Pair your Thanksgiving peas with roasted turkey, ham, or a vibrant salad for a hearty holiday spread. You can also set it beside festive casseroles or rolls as part of a larger buffet. It’s a wonderful addition that livens up any table!
Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear for a Festive Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by peeling, slicing, and dicing the pear into bite-sized pieces. Mix with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to prevent browning.
- In a medium skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and sauté for 6–8 minutes until crispy and golden.
- In the same skillet, add 1 cup of thinly sliced shallots and sauté for about 1 minute until softened. Mix in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
- Stir in the frozen peas and diced pears with their lemony juices. Cook for about 5 minutes until heated through.
- Remove from heat and fold in half of the crispy pancetta, chopped parsley, and a pinch of black pepper. Garnish with remaining pancetta and lemon zest.
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