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Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta) Recipe

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta) Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 23 reviews

This Thanksgiving Peas recipe combines sweet pears and savory pancetta for a festive side dish that balances rich flavors and fresh ingredients. With tender shallots, fresh lemon zest, and a hint of Dijon mustard, this delicious dish elevates traditional peas with a gourmet twist, perfect for holiday gatherings or any special meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat

  • ½ pound pancetta, cut into small dice

Vegetables & Fruit

  • 3 medium shallots, halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced)
  • 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

Condiments & Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 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 a bright citrus flavor. Set aside.
  2. Cook the pancetta: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until golden brown and crispy, rendering its fat. Remove pancetta with a slotted spoon onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 3 tablespoons of the rendered fat in the pan and discard the rest.
  3. Add the shallots: Add the sliced shallots to the skillet and cook for about one minute until softened and fragrant. Stir in the Dijon mustard for a subtle tang that will blend well with the peas.
  4. Add the peas and pears: Add the frozen peas and the prepared pear to the skillet. Stir continuously for about five minutes, allowing the peas to warm through and the pear to soften slightly while absorbing the flavors.
  5. Stir in pancetta and parsley: Turn off the heat. Stir in half of the cooked pancetta along with the chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This step combines the crispy texture and the herbal freshness perfectly.
  6. Serve: Transfer the peas to a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining crispy pancetta and garnish with fresh lemon zest. Serve warm as an elegant and flavorful side dish.

Notes

  • If pancetta is unavailable, substitute with thick-cut bacon for similar texture and flavor.
  • Use fresh peas instead of frozen for a sweeter and more vibrant dish when in season.
  • Adjust the lemon juice and zest to taste for more or less brightness depending on your preference.
  • This dish can be prepared ahead; keep the pancetta separate until serving to maintain crispiness.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit pancetta and increase parsley and lemon for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thanksgiving side dish, peas with pear, pancetta peas, holiday vegetable side, sautéed peas with pancetta

Find it online: https://deliciousdishspot.com/thanksgiving-peas-with-pear-and-pancetta-recipe/