As I stood in my kitchen, the comforting aroma of crispy pancetta and sweet pears filled the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy holiday gathering. This Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Pears recipe is a delightful twist on traditional Thanksgiving fare, merging savory and sweet flavors into one irresistible side dish. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with your holiday turkey, but it’s also quick to whip up, making it ideal for the bustling kitchen on Turkey Day. Plus, its vibrant colors bring a festive touch to your table! Curious how this simple yet elegant dish can elevate your Thanksgiving feast? Let’s dive in!

Why is this dish a holiday favorite?

Simplicity: This Thanksgiving Peas recipe takes only a few minutes to prep and cook, allowing you more time to enjoy the festivities.
Flavorful Contrast: The crispy pancetta pairs beautifully with the sweet, juicy pears for a delightful taste explosion.
Eye-Catching Presentation: Its vibrant green peas and golden-brown pancetta add a pop of color to your table, impressing guests with its gourmet look.
Versatile Options: With easy substitutions like bacon or apples, you can adapt this dish to suit your pantry and preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing: This dish is sure to be a hit, complementing any holiday spread alongside classics like turkey and stuffing.

Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients

• Prepare for a delightful holiday side!

For the Base

Frozen Peas – Provides a fresh, vibrant color; fresh peas can be substituted if available.
Shallots – Adds a mild onion taste; feel free to swap with onions if necessary.
Pear – Gives a sweet texture; ripe Bartlett works best, but you can use apples as a substitute if needed.

For the Flavor

Pancetta – Brings a savory, crispy element; bacon is a great alternative if pancetta is hard to find.
Dijon Mustard – Offers a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the pears.
Lemon – Enhances freshness; use both zest and juice for the best flavor.

For Garnishing

Parsley – Adds a touch of freshness; optional but beautiful for presentation.
Black Pepper – Enhances flavors; add to taste for your desired spice level.

Get ready to enjoy these Thanksgiving Peas as they become the star of your holiday meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Sweet Pears

Step 1: Prepare the Pear
Begin by peeling the pear and cutting it into small, even dice. Toss the diced pear with a squeeze of lemon juice in a bowl to prevent browning and enhance its flavor. This step not only preserves the pear’s vibrant color but also adds a zesty brightness that complements the Thanksgiving Peas.

Step 2: Cook the Pancetta
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add the diced pancetta. Cook the pancetta for about 5-7 minutes or until it turns golden brown and crispy. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, then remove the pancetta from the skillet, placing it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, while leaving some rendered fat in the pan for added flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Shallots
Using the same skillet with the pancetta fat, add the diced shallots and sauté for approximately 1-2 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. This short cooking time will soften the shallots while infusing the Thanksgiving Peas with a mild onion flavor. Stir in the Dijon mustard to combine, which will blend beautifully with the shallots.

Step 4: Combine the Peas and Pears
Next, add the frozen peas and the diced pears to the skillet with the shallots and mustard mixture. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes or until the peas are heated through and vibrant green. The warmth will enhance the sweetness of the pears, creating a delightful combination in your Thanksgiving Peas dish.

Step 5: Finish the Dish
Stir in half of the crispy pancetta into the skillet along with chopped parsley and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Mix everything well to ensure the flavors meld evenly. After a minute, remove the skillet from heat, readying your Thanksgiving Peas to be served. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with the remaining pancetta and some lemon zest for a bright finish.

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas

Prep Ingredients Early: Organize your ingredients ahead of time. Pre-chop your shallots and pears to streamline cooking for your Thanksgiving Peas, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with family.
Watch the Pancetta: Keep an eye on the pancetta while cooking; it can go from perfectly crispy to burnt quickly. Stir occasionally to prevent any uneven cooking.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste while cooking! You can adjust the Dijon mustard and black pepper amounts to suit your preferences, ensuring your Thanksgiving Peas are flavorful and balanced.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh peas and ripe pears elevate this dish significantly. If using frozen peas, ensure they are high-quality to maintain that vibrant green color.
Embrace Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Substitute pancetta with turkey bacon or add walnuts for an extra crunch. This flexibility keeps your Thanksgiving Peas exciting.

Thanksgiving Peas Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Thanksgiving Peas recipe and personalize it to suit your taste or dietary needs!

Bacon Swap: Use crispy bacon instead of pancetta for a more accessible flavor that everyone will love. The richness of the bacon complements the sweet pears beautifully.
Turkey Bacon: For a lighter option, turkey bacon can be a fantastic substitute. While it may lack some fat, its smokiness can add an interesting twist.
Apple Alternative: Substitute pears with apples for a crisp, sweet variation. Tart Granny Smith apples can bring a delightful tartness to balance the savory flavors.
Add Crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch. The additional texture brings a new dimension to this holiday side dish.
Vegetarian Delight: Omit the pancetta and replace it with sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian alternative. Incorporate a dash of smoked paprika to mimic the savory, smoky flavor.
Spice It Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha. It enhances the flavor and adds a warm kick that’s sure to tantalize the taste buds.
Herb Mix: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be mixed in with the parsley for a fragrant herbal note. These herbs can further elevate the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Vegan Version: Make this dish vegan by using fried tempeh instead of pancetta and skipping the butter. The tempeh absorbs the flavors wonderfully, achieving a savory profile that’s still satisfying.

Feel free to experiment with these variations as you create memorable moments with your Thanksgiving feast! If you’re interested in more inspiring dishes, don’t miss our Thanksgiving side dish ideas or explore other vegetarian options that can complement your holiday spread beautifully!

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Peas

Fridge: Store leftover Thanksgiving Peas in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently to maintain the desirable texture.

Freezer: If you want to freeze leftovers, place the Thanksgiving Peas in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; reheat directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating: To reheat, use a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring to ensure even warming.

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving Thanksgiving Peas at room temperature for more than 2 hours, especially during any holiday gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Pears are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can dice the pears and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning, storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can cook the pancetta and sauté the shallots ahead of time, refrigerating them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pancetta and shallots in a skillet, add the frozen peas and prepared pears, and cook for about 5 minutes until heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy all the flavors of this delightful side with minimal effort on Thanksgiving Day!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Pears

Elevate your holiday feast with delightful pairings that complement the sweet and savory notes of this vibrant dish.

Roasted Turkey: The classic centerpiece of your Thanksgiving meal; tender and juicy turkey contrasts beautifully with the crispy pancetta and sweet pears.
Herb Stuffing: A traditional side that offers a savory, bread-based flavor, making it the perfect contrast to the subtle sweetness of the peas and pears.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth, these mashed potatoes provide a rich base that balances the crunchiness of the pancetta for a comforting bite.
Maple Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of these carrots echoes the pears in the peas, while the glaze adds a sophisticated touch to your plate.
Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp and refreshing, green beans add a bright, fibrous contrast to the creamy texture of mashed potatoes and the sweetness of the peas.
Cranberry Sauce: A zesty touch to your meal, this tangy sauce cuts through the richness of the pancetta and brings a pop of color to your holiday spread.
Sparkling Cider: An effervescent drink that refreshes your palate and enhances the festive spirit of your Thanksgiving gathering.
Apple Crisp: A warm, spiced dessert that brings additional sweetness to your meal, echoing the flavors of pears while providing a cozy finish.

Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Pears Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pears for this dish?
Absolutely! When choosing pears, look for ripe Bartlett pears or any firm variety. They should feel slightly soft to the touch but not overly mushy. If they’re hard, leave them at room temperature for a couple of days to ripen before using.

What is the best way to store leftover Thanksgiving Peas?
Leftover Thanksgiving Peas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. To maintain the flavors, I recommend reheating them gently in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil to restore some of that original crispiness.

Can I freeze Thanksgiving Peas?
Yes, you can freeze Thanksgiving Peas! To do this, place the cooled peas in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, either reheat them directly from frozen in a skillet or let them thaw overnight in the fridge before warming.

What should I do if my peas turn mushy while cooking?
Very! To prevent mushy peas, be mindful of the cooking time. Frozen peas typically need only about 5 minutes in the skillet to heat through. Stir gently to avoid breaking them apart. If using fresh peas, they cook even faster – so keep an eye on them!

Are there any dietary considerations for Thanksgiving Peas?
You bet! This recipe is gluten-free as is. For vegetarians, you can easily swap pancetta with crispy mushrooms or crispy tofu for that umami flavor without the meat. Additionally, if you have anyone in your family allergic to nuts, feel free to omit the optional nuts or use sunflower seeds for crunch instead.

How can I enhance the flavors even more?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a splash of balsamic vinegar when cooking the peas and pears. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a nice zing to the dish!