As the holiday season approaches, I find myself reminiscing about the joy that fills our kitchen during Thanksgiving. This year, I’m excited to share my take on Thanksgiving peas with crispy pancetta and sweet pears—a side dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With just a few simple ingredients, this stunning dish captures the essence of festive gatherings, offering a delightful contrast of savory and sweet flavors. Not only is it quick to prepare, making your cooking less stressful, but it also brings a refreshing twist to the table that your loved ones will rave about. Are you ready to elevate your holiday feast with these flavorful Thanksgiving peas? Let’s dive in!
Why are Thanksgiving Peas special?
Savory and Sweet Contrast: These Thanksgiving peas blend crispy pancetta with juicy pears, creating a unique flavor harmony that dances on your palate. Quick Prep Time: With simple steps, you can whip this dish up in under 30 minutes, giving you more time to enjoy with family. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect as a side for turkey or a light brunch option, this dish is sure to impress your guests! Looking for more delicious side ideas? Check out Creamed Peas New for a delightful twist on a classic. Festive Presentation: The vibrant colors will make your holiday table pop, and the zesty lemon adds a refreshing touch. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute with apples for a unique variation—your creativity can shine!
Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients
• Elevate your dish with these must-have ingredients!
For the Base
- Pancetta – Adds savory, salty flavor and crisp texture. Substitution: Bacon can be used for a similar effect.
- Shallots – Provides sweetness and aromatic depth. Substitution: Onions may work in a pinch, but shallots bring a milder flavor.
- Frozen Peas – Serves as the main vegetable component, easy to use and cook. Substitution: Fresh peas can be used if available.
For the Sweetness
- Pear – Contributes natural sweetness and texture contrast. Substitution: Apples or other sweet fruits can work well, provided they are firm.
For the Flavor
- Dijon Mustard – Introduces tanginess and depth to the dish. Optional: Other mustard varieties can be used, though they may alter the flavor.
- Lemon – Adds acidity and freshness; both zest and juice are used. Note: Fresh lemon is preferable for brightness; bottled juice can be a substitute but may lack flavor.
- Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor profile. Note: Use freshly ground for best results.
For the Finish
- Parsley – Offers freshness and color to the finished dish. Optional: Chives or cilantro can be used as alternatives.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Peas
Step 1: Prep the Pear
Begin by carefully peeling, slicing, and dicing one ripe pear into small cubes, making sure they are uniform for even cooking. Toss the pear pieces with the juice of half a lemon to prevent browning while you prepare the remaining ingredients. This step keeps the Thanksgiving peas visually appealing and adds a zesty flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Pancetta
Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add diced pancetta. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pancetta is golden brown and crispy. Remove it from the pan and drain on paper towels, but leave about a tablespoon of the rendered fat in the skillet for the next steps; this will infuse the Thanksgiving peas with a wonderful savory flavor.
Step 3: Sauté Shallots
In the same skillet with the reserved pancetta fat, add finely sliced shallots. Sauté them for about 1 minute, or until they become translucent and fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Next, stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard, allowing the tangy flavor to meld with the shallots while cooking for an additional 30 seconds, creating a fragrant base for the Thanksgiving peas.
Step 4: Add Peas and Pears
Introduce the frozen peas and the diced pears into the skillet, stirring to combine everything. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the peas are heated through and vibrant green, while the pears begin to soften slightly. Keep an eye on the mixture, ensuring it doesn’t stick to the pan. This step will bring together all the flavors for your Thanksgiving peas.
Step 5: Combine All
Once the peas and pears are adequately heated, remove the skillet from the heat and fold in half of the crispy pancetta, freshly chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Give everything a gentle toss to combine, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Transfer the Thanksgiving peas to a serving bowl and prepare for the final touches.
Step 6: Serve
Just before serving, top the Thanksgiving peas with the remaining pancetta for that extra crunch and garnish with a touch of lemon zest to enhance the freshness. This visually stunning side dish is now ready to be enjoyed, bringing its sweet and savory components to your festive table.
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Peas
- Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving Thanksgiving peas at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
- Fridge: Store leftover Thanksgiving peas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently in a skillet for best texture.
- Freezer: If you need to freeze, place cooled peas in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: For the freshest taste and texture, reheat in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil to restore that crispy pancetta goodness.
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears
These festive peas create a perfect foundation for a delightful holiday feast that will leave everyone raving.
- Roast Turkey: Juicy turkey pairs wonderfully with the savory sweetness of the peas, creating a satisfying and classic Thanksgiving vibe.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of these potatoes complements the crunchy pancetta, making each bite of your meal comforting and indulgent.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness enhances the flavor of the peas, while the colorful presentation adds a cheerful touch to your holiday table.
- Cranberry Sauce: Tart cranberry sauce brings a refreshing contrast to the savory dish, offering a bright pop of flavor with each mouthful.
- Festive Grain Salad: A light grain salad with nuts and dried fruits adds a lovely crunch and contrast, elevating the overall textural experience.
- Apple Pie: This classic dessert perfectly balances the savory peas, creating a well-rounded meal that ends on a sweet, nostalgic note. Simple and delightful!
- Sparkling White Wine: This effervescent drink cleanses the palate, making it an ideal pairing for the rich flavors of the peas and pancetta.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: The warm, creamy sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the festive peas, rounding out your dinner with a satisfying finish.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted sprouts crispy on the outside provide an earthy flavor that complements your Thanksgiving peas beautifully.
Thanksgiving Peas Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to mix things up and personalize your Thanksgiving peas to match your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute olive oil for any butter if you’re looking to keep things vegan while keeping a rich flavor.
- Vegetarian: Omit the pancetta and add smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness without the meat.
- Gluten-Free: Make sure the Dijon mustard is gluten-free; many brands offer options that cater to gluten-sensitive diets.
- Herb-Infused: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary in the sautéing step for a fragrant herb twist that enhances the flavor.
- Apple Twist: Replace pears with diced apples for a crunchier texture and different flavor profile that remains festive.
- Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Heat it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you enjoy a little kick in your side dishes.
- Flavor Boost: Enhance the savory depth with a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end—this brings a lovely balance to the sweetness of the pears.
Looking for more ways to enjoy peas? Check out Creamed Peas New for another delightful side dish!
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shallots and ripe pears will elevate the flavor of your Thanksgiving peas. Don’t settle for lackluster items!
- Mind the Cooking Time: Be cautious not to overcook the peas; they should be bright green and retain a bit of snap. Overcooking can lead to mushy peas!
- Mustard Balance: Start with less Dijon mustard if you’re unsure; you can always add more to taste. This ensures you get just the right level of tang.
- Batch Cooking: If serving a crowd, simply double the ingredients and use a larger skillet. Make sure to stir frequently for even heating.
- Storage Wisdom: Leftovers can be refrigerated for 4-5 days. For best results, reheat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil to refresh the texture of your Thanksgiving peas.
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving peas with pancetta and pears are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking a stress-free holiday! You can slice and dice the pears and toss them with lemon juice up to 24 hours in advance to prevent browning and keep them fresh. Additionally, you can cook the pancetta and shallots, then refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to impress your guests, simply reheat the pancetta and shallots in a skillet, add the peas and pear mixture, and cook until warmed through, finishing with parsley and black pepper. This way, you’ll have a delightful side dish ready to serve with minimal effort!
Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears Recipe FAQs
What type of pears are best for Thanksgiving peas?
Absolutely! For the sweetest and juiciest flavor, I recommend using ripe Bartlett or Anjou pears. These varieties have a tender texture that complements the pancetta beautifully. Be sure to choose pears that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy, ensuring they’ll add that lovely sweetness to your dish.
How long can I store Thanksgiving peas in the fridge?
Very! Leftover Thanksgiving peas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them gently in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil. This will help maintain the texture and enhance the flavors!
Can I freeze Thanksgiving peas?
Of course! If you have extra Thanksgiving peas that you want to save for later, let them cool completely and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in a skillet. A splash of olive oil during reheating will revive that crispy pancetta!
What can I substitute for pancetta in this recipe?
If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey bacon or even a plant-based bacon can be a great option! Both will still provide that savory flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian version, feel free to omit the meat altogether; the peas and pears will still shine in their own right. Just perhaps add a dash more seasoning or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for depth.
Thanksgiving Peas with Pears and Pancetta: A Festive Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by carefully peeling, slicing, and dicing one ripe pear into small cubes. Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add diced pancetta. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- In the same skillet with the reserved pancetta fat, add finely sliced shallots and sauté for about 1 minute until translucent.
- Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard and cook for an additional 30 seconds to meld flavors.
- Introduce the frozen peas and diced pears into the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and fold in half of the crispy pancetta, parsley, and black pepper. Toss to combine.
- Top with remaining pancetta and garnish with lemon zest before serving.
