Thanksgiving Peas Recipe

Introduction

This Thanksgiving peas recipe combines savory pancetta with sweet pears and fresh peas for a perfect side dish. It’s vibrant, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a great addition to your holiday table.

Ingredients

• ½ pound pancetta, cut into small dice
• 3 medium shallots, halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 16 ounces frozen peas
• 1 pear
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest)
• ½ cup roughly chopped parsley
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Peel, slice, and small dice the pear. Place the diced pear in a small bowl and stir with the lemon juice. Set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate. Drain off some of the rendered fat, leaving about 3 tablespoons in the pan.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced shallots to the skillet and cook for about one minute until softened. Stir in the Dijon mustard.
4. Step 4: Add the frozen peas and the lemon-dressed pear to the pan. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes, until the peas are warmed through.
5. Step 5: Turn off the heat. Stir in half of the cooked pancetta, the chopped parsley, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Step 6: Transfer the peas mixture to a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining pancetta and garnish with lemon zest before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh peas instead of frozen for a sweeter, more tender texture when in season.
• Substitute pancetta with thick-cut bacon if pancetta is unavailable, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
• Add a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor complexity.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the peas.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of fruit instead of pear?

Yes, you can try apples or even finely chopped peaches for a different twist. Choose a fruit that holds its shape when cooked and complements the savory flavors.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the pancetta and use olive oil to cook the shallots. You can add toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.

Thanksgiving Peas Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 124 reviews

A flavorful Thanksgiving side dish featuring sweet peas cooked with crispy pancetta, tender shallots, fresh pear, and zesty lemon, finished with parsley and Dijon mustard for a vibrant and savory complement to any holiday meal.

• Author: Nethan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• ½ pound pancetta, cut into small dice
• 3 medium shallots, halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 16 ounces frozen peas
• 1 pear, peeled, sliced, and small diced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest)
• ½ cup roughly chopped parsley
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Prep the Pear: Peel, slice, and small dice the pear. Place it in a small bowl and stir with the lemon juice to prevent browning and add brightness. Set aside.
2. Cook the Pancetta: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is golden brown and crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove the pancetta onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Drain off some of the rendered fat from the pan, leaving about 3 tablespoons for cooking.
3. Cook the Shallots: Add the thinly sliced shallots to the skillet with the reserved pancetta fat and cook for about a minute until softened but not browned. Stir in the Dijon mustard to coat the shallots and develop flavor.
4. Add the Peas and Pears: Add the frozen peas and prepared pear dice to the skillet. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes to heat everything through and combine the flavors, while keeping the peas tender yet vibrant.
5. Combine Pancetta and Parsley: Turn off the heat. Stir in half of the cooked pancetta, the chopped parsley, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix gently to distribute evenly.
6. Serve: Transfer the cooked peas to a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining crispy pancetta pieces and garnish with lemon zest for a fresh and colorful finish.

Notes

• Use fresh or frozen peas; if using fresh, blanch them first for best texture.
• Pear can be substituted with apple for a different but complementary sweetness.
• Adjust the amount of pancetta depending on preference for saltiness and richness.
• For a vegetarian option, omit pancetta and add toasted nuts or mushrooms for texture.
• This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey or chicken for a classic Thanksgiving meal.

Keywords: Thanksgiving side dish, peas, pancetta, shallots, pear, lemon zest, holiday recipes