As the holiday season approaches, there’s a special warmth in the air, filled with laughter, love, and the mouthwatering aroma of delicious dishes bubbling away in the kitchen. One bright star on my Thanksgiving table has always been a delightful blend of sweet and savory: Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Sweet Pears. This dish, full of festive vibrancy, transforms simple frozen peas into something truly extraordinary.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a frantic grocery run where I realized last-minute that I needed a fresh, quick-cooking side that would wow my family and complement the turkey beautifully. Imagine the satisfying crunch of crispy pancetta mingling with tender peas and juicy, sweet pears, all brought together by a zesty lemon and Dijon mustard dressing! This quick take on a classic side dish is as easy to prepare as it is to fall in love with, making it the perfect choice for a holiday celebration. Let’s dive in and whip up a dish that will not only impress your guests but also leave them asking for seconds!
Why are Thanksgiving Peas a Must-Have?
Versatile Delight: Thanksgiving Peas can effortlessly adapt to various dietary preferences, making them a crowd-pleaser.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy pancetta and sweet pears creates a burst of flavor that’s simply unforgettable.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy holiday cooks, this dish comes together in just a few minutes!
Colorful Presentation: Bright green peas and golden pears add a festive touch to your Thanksgiving table.
Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance for a stress-free holiday, ensuring you have more time to spend with loved ones.
This Thanksgiving, elevate your side dish game with peas that are sure to steal the spotlight!
Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients
• • Discover the delicious components!
For the Peas
- Frozen Peas – The star ingredient, they bring vibrant color and natural sweetness; fresh peas are a lovely alternative if in season.
- Pear – Adds a delightful sweetness and texture; a Bartlett pear is recommended for its firmness and flavor.
For the Flavor
- Pancetta – A must for that crispy, salty crunch; opt for pre-diced pancetta to save time.
- Shallots – These provide a subtle sweetness and depth; feel free to substitute with onions if needed.
- Dijon Mustard – Imparts tangy brightness; adjust the quantity to suit your taste and balance with the sweetness of pears.
- Lemon – Both zested and juiced for acidity; fresh lemon juice is preferred but bottled works in a pinch.
For Garnish
- Parsley – Offers a fresh herbal note and a splash of color; you can swap it for thyme or chives if desired.
- Black Pepper – Enhances all the flavors; adjust to your liking for a personal touch.
Elevate your Thanksgiving Peas dish with these delicious ingredients that promise to shine on your holiday table!
How to Make Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears
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Prep Pear: Peel, slice, and dice the pear into small chunks. Toss it with fresh lemon juice to prevent browning and enhance its flavor. This adds a delightful brightness to the mix!
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Cook Pancetta: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the diced pancetta. Sauté until crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and let it drain on paper towels to absorb excess grease.
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Sauté Shallots: In the same skillet with the rendered fat from the pancetta, add the shallots. Sauté until softened, about 1 minute, and then stir in the Dijon mustard for that necessary tanginess.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the peas and pears to the pan. Stir gently and cook until the peas are warmed through, about 5 minutes. The peas will become vibrant green, and the pears will soften beautifully.
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Finish Dish: Stir in half the crispy pancetta, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl, top with the remaining pancetta, and garnish with lemon zest for an extra pop of flavor.
Optional: For an added crunch, consider tossing in some toasted almonds before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hassle-free holiday! You can prepare the components up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, peel and dice the pear, then toss it in lemon juice to prevent browning, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also cook the pancetta and let it cool before refrigerating for maximum flavor. When it’s time to serve, simply sauté the shallots, then add the refrigerated peas and pears, warming them through for about 5 minutes before mixing in the pancetta and garnishing with parsley and lemon zest. This way, you’ll have a delightful side dish ready with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears?
As you conjure the spirit of the holiday table, pairing your Thanksgiving peas with delightful companions becomes a culinary celebration of flavors and textures.
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Roasted Turkey: The classic centerpiece of Thanksgiving, its savory juices enhance the sweet and salty tones of the peas, ensuring a balanced bite every time.
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Glazed Ham: This dish radiates flavor with its sweet glaze, complementing the savory crunch of pancetta and the sweetness of pears beautifully.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of smooth mashed potatoes adds a comforting, velvety contrast that marries well with the crispiness of the pancetta.
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Cranberry Sauce: Its tart, fruity brightness cuts through the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing bite that enhances every mouthful.
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Sautéed Green Beans: The greenery and crunch amplify the vibrant color of your plate while the gentle sauté keeps them slightly crisp and fresh, making for a lovely textural contrast.
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Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft, pillowy rolls perfect for mopping up all those delicious flavors make it an irresistible addition to your holiday spread.
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Apple Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic dessert. Its warm spices will harmonize with the savory elements of your main course, keeping everyone coming back for more.
Embrace the joy of the season by savoring these delightful pairings, creating a plate that sings with flavor and festivity!
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas
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Use Frozen Peas: Frozen peas are quick and convenient. Fresh peas are great, but ensure they are cooked through for the best flavor and texture.
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Adjust Sweetness: Experiment with the amount of pear you use, balancing the sweetness with elements like mustard and lemon to suit your taste perfectly.
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Crispy Pancetta: Ensure that your pancetta is crispy by cooking it over medium heat and not overcrowding the pan—this keeps it from steaming instead of frying.
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Make Ahead: Thanksgiving Peas can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge and serve it at room temperature or reheat gently to maintain texture.
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Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or even some toasted nuts not only enhances the flavor but adds a beautiful presentation, making your dish stand out on the holiday table.
Ensure your Thanksgiving Peas shine this holiday season with these simple and effective tips!
Storage Tips for Thanksgiving Peas
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days, keeping your Thanksgiving Peas fresh and ready to enjoy later.
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Freezer: If using a freezer, place cooled peas in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.
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Reheating: Gently reheat your Thanksgiving Peas in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, to preserve the dish’s delightful texture and flavor.
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Serving Temperature: This dish can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for holiday gatherings or leftovers.
Thanksgiving Peas Variations
Feel free to add your own twist to these Thanksgiving Peas for a personalized touch that will delight your taste buds.
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Dairy-Free: Omit pancetta and instead use sautéed mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle in some toasted almonds or walnuts to introduce an enjoyable crunch and depth of flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking to bring a warm heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Fruit Twist: Swap pears for diced apples or even dried cranberries for a tart-sweet complement to the peas.
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Herbal Infusion: Experiment by using fresh thyme instead of parsley to create a subtly aromatic touch that enhances the dish.
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Savory Addition: Incorporate some sautéed garlic for a fragrant boost that enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.
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Gluten-Free: This recipe is already gluten-free, but ensure your Dijon mustard is certified gluten-free if that’s a concern.
Each variation offers a unique twist that will make this festive dish even more memorable—so get creative and enjoy!
Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears Recipe FAQs
What type of peas should I use for Thanksgiving Peas?
Absolutely! Frozen peas are perfect for this dish as they offer convenience and a burst of sweetness. If fresh peas are available, go for them, but ensure they are cooked through for the best results.
How should I store leftovers from the Thanksgiving Peas?
Very! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. This helps keep them fresh and ready for quick reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain their delightful texture.
Can I freeze Thanksgiving Peas?
For sure! To freeze, allow the peas to cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating.
What if my pancetta isn’t crispy?
No worries! If your pancetta isn’t getting crispy, try cooking it on medium-low heat. Ensure to not overcrowd the pan, and give it enough time to render its fat. If it’s still soggy, you can put it under the broiler for a minute or two for a crunchy finish.
Is this recipe safe for people with allergies?
Absolutely! However, be mindful of potential allergens. The recipe contains pork (in the pancetta), so if there are dietary restrictions, consider using bacon or omitting it entirely for a vegetarian option. Always check labels for gluten-free variations.
Can I prepare Thanksgiving Peas in advance?
Yes, indeed! You can prepare this dish a few hours ahead of time. Simply cook the peas and pancetta, then store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, you can reheat gently or serve at room temperature. This flexibility means more time with your loved ones during the festivities!
Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears for a Festive Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel, slice, and dice the pear into small chunks. Toss it with fresh lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the diced pancetta. Sauté until crispy, about 4-5 minutes.
- In the same skillet, add the shallots and sauté until softened, about 1 minute. Stir in the Dijon mustard.
- Add the peas and pears to the pan. Stir gently and cook until the peas are warmed through, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in half the crispy pancetta, chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with the remaining pancetta.