As I stirred the vibrant green peas, the aroma of crispy pancetta filled my kitchen, mingling with the sweet notes of fresh pears. This Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear recipe promises to spark joy at your holiday table! Perfectly savory and slightly sweet, these peas are more than just a side dish—they’re a delightful way to elevate any gathering. With a quick prep time and vibrant flavors, they’ll easily become a crowd-pleaser, leaving your guests raving about their new favorite dish. And the best part? They’re gluten-free if you opt for gluten-free mustard, making them accessible for everyone. So, are you ready to bring a festive twist to your Thanksgiving spread with this enchanting dish? Let’s dive in!

Why are Thanksgiving Peas so special?

Vibrant colors: Expect a stunning dish that showcases bright green peas alongside golden pancetta and juicy pear, creating a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Savory meets sweet: This unique combination of flavors elevates traditional Thanksgiving fare, offering a delightful contrast that your family will love.

Quick preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these peas in no time, perfect for busy holiday schedules.

Versatile options: Whether you prefer bacon, turkey bacon, or a vegetarian twist, you can easily customize this dish to suit your dietary needs.

Crowd favorite: This dish is sure to be a showstopper at your Thanksgiving gathering, leaving guests asking for seconds—and the recipe!

For more delicious side dishes, check out our Creamy Mashed Potatoes or Roasted Brussels Sprouts that pair wonderfully with any holiday meal.

Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients

• Bring your festive dish to life with these essential ingredients!

For the Base

Frozen Peas – These are the heart of the dish, offering a pop of sweetness and vibrant color. Fresh peas can be a delightful alternative if in season.
Shallots – Milder than onions, shallots add a lovely sweetness; substitute with yellow onion for a similar effect.

For the Flavor

Pancetta – This crispy, savory ingredient steals the show; bacon or prosciutto work as delicious substitutes if needed.
Dijon Mustard – Introduces a tangy kick that ties all the flavors together; consider using whole grain mustard for added texture.
Black Pepper – A dash enhances the dish; adjust according to your preference for spice.

For the Sweetness

Pear – Creates a beautiful balance with its sweetness; Bartlett pears are ideal, but diced apples can work in a pinch.

For Freshness

Lemon – Adds brightness and acidity; fresh zest and juice are best for maximum flavor.
Parsley – Offers an herbaceous lift; feel free to swap for other herbs like thyme for a different twist.

For Serving

Lemon Zest – A lovely garnish, it adds an extra layer of brightness that complements the flavors beautifully.

Embrace the festive spirit with this Thanksgiving Peas dish that adds a delightful and savory touch to your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Peas

Step 1: Prepare the Pear
Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing one ripe Bartlett pear into small pieces. To prevent browning, toss the diced pear with the juice of half a lemon in a medium mixing bowl. Set this aside, allowing the sweet and juicy pear to absorb the citrus flavor while you prepare the rest of the ingredients for the Thanksgiving Peas.

Step 2: Cook the Pancetta
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat, allowing the pan to warm for about 2 minutes. Once heated, add diced pancetta to the skillet, stirring occasionally, and cook until the pancetta is crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pancetta from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels, leaving about 3 tablespoons of the rendered fat in the skillet for added flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Shallots
In the same skillet with the leftover pancetta fat, add 1 finely chopped shallot and sauté over medium heat for about 1 minute, or until the shallots become translucent and fragrant. Be mindful not to let them brown too much. Then, stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, cooking for an additional minute to let the flavors meld, creating a savory base for your Thanksgiving Peas.

Step 4: Add Peas and Pears
Now, incorporate 2 cups of frozen peas and the prepared diced pear into the skillet. Stir well, cooking for about 5 minutes until the peas are heated through and bright green. Keep a close eye to ensure everything is well combined and the pears begin to soften slightly, enhancing the festive flavor profile of your Thanksgiving Peas dish.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Once the peas and pears are warmed through, turn off the heat and gently fold in half of the crispy pancetta, along with ¼ cup of chopped parsley, and a generous pinch of black pepper. This will marry all the flavors together beautifully, ensuring every bite of your Thanksgiving Peas is flavorful and aromatic.

Step 6: Serve the Dish
Transfer the vibrant mixture to a serving bowl, and sprinkle the remaining crispy pancetta on top. For a finishing touch, garnish with freshly grated lemon zest for added brightness. Your Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear are now ready to delight and impress your guests at the holiday table!

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Peas

Fridge: Store your Thanksgiving Peas in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a drizzle of oil to preserve flavor and texture.

Freezer: To freeze, place cooled Thanksgiving Peas in a freezer-safe container. They can maintain their quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid mushiness.

Wrap It Up: For longer freshness before refrigeration, wrap the peas in plastic wrap and then store in an airtight container for optimal protection from freezer burn.

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prep the peas and pancetta mixture up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply follow the first five steps in the recipe and store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge. Keep the crispy pancetta separate until just before serving to maintain its crunchiness. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the peas on the stovetop, adding a touch of olive oil if necessary, and fold in the pancetta and fresh parsley. This way, you’ll have a delicious, stress-free side dish with just a few final steps!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear

Elevate your holiday feast by thoughtfully pairing vibrant flavors with comforting sides that will have your guests returning for more.

Crispy Roasted Turkey: A Thanksgiving classic, its savory roasted flavor complements the sweetness of the peas and pears, creating a perfect balance on your plate. Serve sliced with cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
Savory Stuffing: With its earthy, herb-laden flavors, stuffing adds a heartiness to your meal, inviting every diner to indulge. The contrast of textures with your peas will create a delightful culinary harmony.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes provide a rich contrast that accentuates the vibrant flavors of the peas. A splash of gravy on top is the cherry on the cake!
Zesty Salad: A bright mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette not only refreshes the palate but also enhances the brightness of the peas and pears. Toss in some nuts and cheese for added crunch!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized edges and slightly bitter flavor contrast nicely with the sweet elements of the peas, making for an unforgettable combo. Drizzle with balsamic reduction for an extra pop!
Warm Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream rounds out your meal perfectly. The cinnamon-spiced apples echo the sweetness of the pears in your Thanksgiving dish.

These pairings are sure to create a festive atmosphere, leaving everyone satisfied and ready to celebrate!

Thanksgiving Peas Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to make this delightful dish your own with some tasty twists and substitutions!

Bacon: Swap pancetta for crispy bacon for a budget-friendly yet equally delicious alternative.
Turkey Bacon: Use turkey bacon to reduce fat while retaining a delightful crunch. It adds a mild flavor that still complements the dish well.
Vegetarian: Omit pancetta completely and replace it with toasted nuts, like almonds or walnuts, for added crunch and nutrition.
Fresh Peas: If in season, use fresh peas instead of frozen for an even brighter taste and texture.
Apples: In place of pears, diced tart apples can bring a fresh sweetness that works beautifully with the mustard.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for those who enjoy a little heat in their side dishes.
Herb Swap: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil instead of parsley for a unique flavor profile.
Honey Glaze: Drizzle a bit of honey over the finished dish for an extra layer of sweetness that complements the savory elements nicely.

Feel free to explore these variations to suit your taste and make this dish truly yours! If you’re looking for more creative ways to elevate your holiday meal, try pairing it with our Roasted Brussels Sprouts or some delicious Creamy Mashed Potatoes for a well-rounded Thanksgiving feast.

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas

Prep Ahead: Prepare your pears and pancetta in advance to save time on the big day. Just reheat them before serving your Thanksgiving Peas!
Avoid Mushy Peas: Stir the peas just until heated through—overcooking will make them mushy. Keep that vibrant green color intact for visual appeal.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh herbs and citrus whenever possible. The brightness from lemon zest and parsley will elevate the dish’s flavor profile significantly.
Customize the Flavors: Feel free to adjust the Dijon mustard and black pepper to suit your taste. Bringing out the savory and tangy notes can really make the Thanksgiving Peas shine!
Versatile Leftovers: Consider tossing leftovers into a morning omelet or a refreshing salad the next day for a delightful twist on your Thanksgiving feast!

Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pears for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for Bartlett pears, which are known for their sweetness and juiciness. They should have a slight give when pressed gently at the neck. Avoid pears with dark spots or bruising, as they may not be as flavorful.

How should I store leftover Thanksgiving Peas?
After serving, allow your Thanksgiving Peas to cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. When reheating, drizzle a bit of olive oil in a skillet and warm them over low heat to maintain their texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Thanksgiving Peas?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let your Thanksgiving Peas cool completely. Transfer them into a freezer-safe container, ensuring to remove as much air as possible before sealing. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What if my peas turn mushy while cooking?
Very good question! To avoid mushy peas, be sure to cook them just until they are warmed through, about 5 minutes—no more! Overcooking can lead to a loss of that delightful color and crispness. Stir gently to maintain their integrity.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
This dish can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free Dijon mustard, making it accessible to a wider audience. If you’re serving guests with specific dietary restrictions, you can also substitute pancetta with turkey bacon or omit meat altogether for a vegetarian delight. Always make sure to inform your guests of any potential allergens from ingredients used.

How can I enhance the flavors of my Thanksgiving Peas?
I recommend experimenting with your Dijon mustard and black pepper levels to find your perfect balance. Adding a touch of garlic sautéed with shallots can elevate the savory notes even further. Remember, fresh ingredients like lemon zest and parsley will always boost the dish’s flavor profile, making it truly memorable!