As I stood in the kitchen, the savory aroma of crispy pancetta wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to cherished family gatherings. It’s hard to resist the allure of my Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear—a dish that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. This easy-to-make side dish is not only a festive addition to your table but also a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone wondering about your secret. With quick prep and the flexibility to substitute ingredients, you can whip this up effortlessly, making it a must-have for your holiday repertoire. Join me as we explore this delightful blend of earthy peas, juicy pears, and that irresistible crunch of pancetta—are you ready to elevate your Thanksgiving spread?

Why Choose Thanksgiving Peas?

Festive Flavors: This dish beautifully marries sweet pears with savory pancetta, creating an unforgettable flavor experience that enhances any holiday spread.

Quick Preparation: With minimal ingredients and speedy prep time, you’ll have these Thanksgiving Peas ready in a flash, which is perfect for those busy holiday hours.

Versatile Substitutions: Whether you opt for bacon instead of pancetta or choose apples over pears, this recipe invites creative tweaks to fit your palate.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Sure to wow friends and family, this dish is a colorful centerpiece that complements any main dish, from turkey to ham.

Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with vitamins from peas and pears, these peas are a light yet fulfilling side that balances out richer holiday dishes. Grab your favorite serving dish and let these peas shine alongside a delicious Thanksgiving Pizza Cozy or your traditional roast!

Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients

For the Peas

Frozen Peas – The base of the dish that’s quick to prepare; fresh peas are also great but require longer cooking time.
Pancetta – Delivers savory richness and a crispy texture; feel free to substitute diced bacon for a similar flavor.
Shallots – Adds a sweet and aromatic punch to the dish; you can use yellow onion if shallots are unavailable.
Pear – Infuses natural sweetness and a juicy texture; if pears are out of season, apples work beautifully as a substitute.

For the Flavor

Dijon Mustard – Provides that zesty, tangy layer that complements the sweetness of the pears.
Lemon Juice and Zest – Brightens the overall flavor profile and enhances the freshness of the dish.
Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning, adjust to taste for that perfect finish.

For Garnishing

Fresh Parsley – Adds a burst of color and freshness; consider substituting with other herbs like thyme for different flavor notes.

Indulge in these delightful Thanksgiving Peas and watch your holiday table come to life!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear

Step 1: Prep the Pear
Begin by peeling, slicing, and dicing one ripe pear into small cubes. To prevent browning, toss the diced pear with a splash of fresh lemon juice. Keep it in a bowl while you move on to the next steps to ensure the sweet fruit stays vibrant and ready to blend into your savory Thanksgiving Peas.

Step 2: Cook Pancetta
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat, add diced pancetta, and cook until it becomes crispy and golden, approximately 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pancetta and place it on a paper towel to absorb any excess fat, leaving about 3 tablespoons of the rendered fat in the pan to enhance flavors in your Thanksgiving Peas.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots
In the same skillet with the remaining pancetta fat, add sliced shallots and sauté for about 1 minute, until they soften and turn translucent. Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard, allowing it to infuse the shallots with a tangy flavor. This mixture creates a fragrant base that will elevate your Thanksgiving Peas to a new level of savory delight.

Step 4: Add Peas and Pears
Next, introduce 2 cups of frozen peas and your prepared diced pear into the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for approximately 5 minutes, allowing the peas to heat through and the pear to soften slightly, creating a beautiful blend of textures and flavors that embody the essence of holiday fare in your Thanksgiving Peas.

Step 5: Finish with Pancetta and Parsley
Once the peas and pears are heated through, turn off the heat and mix in half of the crispy pancetta and a handful of freshly chopped parsley. Season generously with black pepper to taste. This step adds a final touch of color and flavor, ensuring your Thanksgiving Peas are both vibrant and appealing to the eye.

Step 6: Serve
Transfer the warm Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear to a beautiful serving bowl. Top with the remaining crispy pancetta and sprinkle with additional lemon zest for a zesty garnish. Your dish is now ready to shine on the holiday table, providing a delightful and festive addition to your Thanksgiving feast!

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pancetta and sauté the shallots up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the peas and pear, chop and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning, and refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the pancetta and shallots in a skillet, then add the peas and pear mixture, cooking until heated through. This way, you’ll have a festive and delicious side dish with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on enjoying your Thanksgiving celebrations!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear

These delightful peas can elevate your holiday feast when paired with the right dishes and flavors.

Roast Turkey: The classic main dish absorbs and complements the sweetness and savory notes of the peas. A drizzle of gravy enhances this pairing beautifully.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the lightly crispy textures of the peas, creating a harmonious balance on the plate.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness from the carrots pairs perfectly with the savory pancetta and sweet pears, adding a pop of color and vibrant flavor.
Cranberry Sauce: This tangy condiment brings brightness to your meal, cutting through the richness of the pancetta and heightening the festive experience.
Bread Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover peas. Their buttery texture makes a delightful counterpart to the dish’s crunch and sweetness.
Pumpkin Pie: Finish your feast on a sweet note with a slice of pumpkin pie. The spices in the pie will complement the complex flavors of the peas, creating a seasonal medley.

Pair your Thanksgiving Peas with these suggestions for a truly memorable holiday spread!

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas

Prep Ahead: Prepare the diced pear and crispy pancetta a day in advance to save time on the holiday. Just reheat gently before serving.

Watch the Heat: Avoid burning the shallots; sauté them on medium heat just until they become soft and translucent to maintain their sweetness.

Substitution Savvy: If you’re out of pancetta, bacon works well, but consider cooking it until slightly chewy for a different texture in your Thanksgiving Peas.

Fresh vs. Frozen: Using frozen peas saves time, but if you have fresh peas, be mindful to adjust the cooking time as they require longer to soften.

Adjust to Taste: Always taste your Thanksgiving Peas before serving; you can easily add more black pepper or lemon juice to balance sweetness and acidity.

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Peas

Fridge: Store leftover Thanksgiving Peas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil.

Freezer: If needing to freeze, place cooled Thanksgiving Peas in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out air; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of water if needed to restore moisture.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the dish a day in advance and simply reheat before your holiday gathering for a stress-free presentation!

Thanksgiving Peas Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize your Thanksgiving Peas with these delightful twists that can elevate your dish while catering to your preferences!

Bacon Swap: Use crispy bacon instead of pancetta for a more accessible flavor profile. The smokiness of bacon can add a delightful new dimension to your dish.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a fragrant twist. The aromatic quality will bring a whole new layer of depth to your Thanksgiving Peas.
Apple Alternative: Replace pears with tart apples for a different fruit flavor. The combination of sweet and tart will create an exciting contrast that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Vegan Option: Substitute the pancetta with tempeh or smoked tofu, and use maple syrup to add sweetness. This vegan-friendly version will still provide a satisfying umami punch.
Creamy Texture: For a richer dish, stir in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream at the end. This will create a smooth and luxurious texture that complements the peas beautifully.
Add Heat: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or sauté some chopped jalapeños. This added warmth will surely balance out the sweetness of the pears.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and a nutty flavor. The added texture will make your Thanksgiving Peas truly memorable.
Savory Depth: Enhance the dish by adding cooked leeks in addition to or instead of shallots. Their mild onion flavor is subtle but impactful, contributing a sweet earthiness to your peas.

Don’t forget to pair these peas with a cozy side like the delightful Thanksgiving Pizza Cozy for a truly hearty feast!

Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe pears for this recipe?
Choosing the perfect pear is essential! Look for pears that yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a pleasant aroma near the stem. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes. If they’re overly firm, let them ripen at room temperature for a couple of days. Once ripe, they should feel soft but not mushy.

What’s the best way to store leftover Thanksgiving Peas?
Absolutely! Store your leftover Thanksgiving Peas in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for about 4-5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat with a splash of olive oil to enhance the flavors and restore that delightful texture.

Can I freeze Thanksgiving Peas?
Certainly! To freeze your Thanksgiving Peas, allow them to cool completely first. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, you can thaw them in the fridge overnight and gently reheat them in a skillet, adding a bit of water if they seem dry.

What if I have an allergy to one of the ingredients?
No worries! If you or someone at your gathering has food allergies, there are great alternatives. For instance, if you’re allergic to pork, turkey bacon is a fantastic substitute for pancetta. Additionally, if you find pears are a no-go, sweet apples work wonderfully to maintain that fruity element in your dish.

Why are my peas mushy when cooked?
Very! Overcooking your peas can lead to a mushy texture. To avoid this, be sure to follow the cooking time closely—cook them just until heated through, which should be around 5 minutes after adding them to the skillet. Keep an eye on them during the sauté process, and remember, you want them tender but still vibrant!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare your Thanksgiving Peas up to a day in advance. Just go through the entire cooking process, then cool and store them in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat. This way, you’ll have one less thing to worry about on the big day!