When the autumn chill sets in and families gather around the table, nothing brings warmth and joy quite like a vibrant side dish that dances between sweetness and savory delight. Enter my Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Sweet Pear—a dish that transforms the humble pea into a star worthy of any holiday feast. You’ll love how the crispy pancetta adds a smoky crunch, perfectly complemented by the luscious sweetness of fresh pear, while the aromatic shallots tie it all together. This festive side is not only a quick and easy addition to your Thanksgiving spread but also a crowd-pleaser that leaves a lasting impression. So, whether you’re hosting a grand dinner or just looking to elevate your weeknight meals, let these peas bring a touch of elegance to your table!
Why are Thanksgiving Peas the perfect side dish?
Festive Flair: These Thanksgiving Peas bring a burst of color and flavor that can elevate any holiday spread.
Quick & Easy: With simple prep and minimal cooking time, you can whip this dish up in no time, leaving you with more time to enjoy your guests.
Flavor Harmony: The balance of crispy pancetta, sweet pear, and zesty Dijon creates a mouthwatering experience that complements any entrée.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap pancetta for bacon or prosciutto, making it adaptable to your taste buds or pantry items.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s a surefire hit with guests, blending comfort with culinary creativity in every bite.
Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients
For the Dish
• Pancetta – Provides a savory, smoky flavor; substitute with bacon if pancetta is unavailable.
• Shallots – Offer a mild onion flavor, adding depth; regular onions can be used in a pinch, but will alter the taste slightly.
• Frozen Peas – The main ingredient providing sweetness and color; fresh peas can be used if available, but they require longer cooking.
• Pear – Offers sweetness and texture contrast; substitute with diced apple if pears are unavailable.
• Dijon Mustard – Adds tang and complexity; can be substituted with mustard, but the flavor profile will change.
• Lemon – Brightens flavors with its zest and juice; use any citrus zest in its absence to maintain acidity.
• Parsley – Adds freshness and color; can be omitted or substituted with other fresh herbs like chives.
• Black Pepper – For seasoning; adjust to taste.
How to Make Thanksgiving Peas
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Prep the Pear: Begin by peeling, slicing, and dicing your pear. Toss the pieces with lemon juice to prevent browning and keep that beautiful color vibrant throughout cooking.
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Cook the Pancetta: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the pancetta. Sauté until it’s crispy and golden brown, then transfer to paper towels to drain, leaving some delicious fat in the pan for extra flavor.
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Sauté Shallots: In the same skillet with the pancetta drippings, add the shallots. Cook until they are tender and fragrant, then stir in the zesty Dijon mustard for an added kick.
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Combine Ingredients: Now, it’s time to add your sweet peas and prepped pear to the skillet. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
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Finish: Gently fold in half of the crispy pancetta and chopped parsley. Save the rest of the pancetta to sprinkle on top, and finish with a refreshing zest of lemon before serving.
Optional: For an extra crunch, consider adding toasted pecans to the mix.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear?
Create a harmonious feast by pairing these vibrant peas with delightful sides.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized crunch and earthy flavor beautifully contrast the sweet and savory notes of the peas.
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Savory Stuffing: A herby, buttery stuffing brings a comforting element that complements the festive character of your Thanksgiving spread.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: These tender, sweet carrots add brightness and a pop of color that echoes the sweetness of the pears.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The creamy texture and natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes are an ideal match for this dish’s savory profile.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and rich, these classic potatoes lend a comforting balance to the complex flavors of the peas.
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Citrusy Salad: A light salad with fresh greens, citrus segments, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast that lifts the palate.
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Red Wine: A glass of smooth, fruity red wine enhances the dish, creating a cozy ambiance with every sip.
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Pumpkin Pie: Wrap up your meal with a slice of pumpkin pie, offering a sweet ending that resonates with the holiday spirit.
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas
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Crispy Pancetta: For the best texture, avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking pancetta; this ensures it crisps up beautifully and doesn’t steam.
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Fresh vs. Frozen: If using fresh peas, be aware they will take longer to cook than frozen peas. Adjust your cooking time accordingly for the perfect bite.
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Mustard Substitutes: While Dijon mustard adds a unique tang, feel free to experiment with whole grain mustard or even honey mustard to suit your palate.
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Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sautéed shallots for a hint of heat that harmonizes wonderfully with the sweet pear in your Thanksgiving Peas.
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Make-Ahead Tips: If you’re preparing this dish in advance, cook the components separately and combine them just before serving to preserve freshness and texture.
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Peas
Fridge: Store any leftover Thanksgiving Peas in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of olive oil for best results.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, place cooled peas in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months; however, note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the dish in advance by cooking all components separately. Combine them just before serving to preserve freshness and flavor.
Reheating: When reheating, avoid overcooking, as this can lead to mushy peas. Warm on low heat while stirring occasionally until heated through, ensuring each bite remains delightful.
Thanksgiving Peas Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these variations to add your personal touch to this delightful dish!
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Bacon Substitute: Swap pancetta for diced bacon to infuse a hearty, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of pears.
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Prosciutto Twist: Use prosciutto instead of pancetta for a delicate, salty flavor that brings an Italian flair to your Thanksgiving Peas.
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Nuts for Crunch: Add toasted walnuts or pecans for an extra textural element, offering a satisfying crunch alongside the tender peas and pear.
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Apple Variation: Replace the pear with Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for a hint of tartness, enhancing the flavor profile even further.
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Herbs Swap: If parsley isn’t available, consider fresh thyme or tarragon for a unique aromatic twist that elevates the dish.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes into your sautéed shallots, giving a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the sweet ingredients.
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Citrus Boost: For additional brightness, include a splash of orange juice instead of lemon juice, creating a fresh citrus flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
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Vegan Version: For a plant-based option, replace pancetta with smoked tempeh and use maple syrup instead of the Dijon mustard for a sweet twist.
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta can be prepped ahead, making them perfect for those busy holiday schedules! You can dice the pear and toss it with lemon juice up to 24 hours before cooking to prevent browning. Additionally, cook the pancetta and sauté the shallots, cooling them completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pancetta and shallots in a skillet, then add the peas and pear. This ensures the dish tastes just as delicious on serving day, providing you with both a time-saving and flavorful side for your gathering!
Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear Recipe FAQs
What type of peas should I use?
I recommend using frozen peas for this recipe since they cook quickly and maintain their sweet flavor and vibrant color. If fresh peas are available, you can certainly use them, but be prepared to adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to cook through.
How should I store leftover Thanksgiving Peas?
Store any leftover Thanksgiving Peas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat on the stove with a splash of olive oil or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze Thanksgiving Peas?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the peas to cool completely first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently to avoid mushiness.
What if my pancetta isn’t crispy?
If the pancetta isn’t crispy, it’s likely due to overcrowding the pan, which causes steaming instead of frying. Next time, make sure to cook in batches if you’re making a larger quantity. For an added crunch, place the undercooked pancetta on a baking sheet and pop it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-10 minutes until crispy.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Certainly! You can replace the pancetta with smoked tempeh or a generous amount of sautéed mushrooms for a rich, savory flavor. Additionally, consider enhancing the dish with some smoked paprika for depth while keeping the recipe vegetarian-friendly.
Is this dish safe for my pets?
While the main ingredients like peas and pear are generally safe, avoid giving your pets any pancetta or shallots, as these can be harmful to them. Always consult your vet before introducing any new human food into your pet’s diet.
Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta: A Festive Flavor Boost
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prep the Pear: Begin by peeling, slicing, and dicing your pear. Toss the pieces with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Cook the Pancetta: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the pancetta. Sauté until crispy and golden brown, then transfer to paper towels to drain.
- Sauté Shallots: In the same skillet with the pancetta drippings, add the shallots and cook until tender. Stir in the Dijon mustard.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sweet peas and prepped pear to the skillet. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes until heated through.
- Finish: Gently fold in half of the crispy pancetta and chopped parsley. Sprinkle remaining pancetta on top and add lemon zest before serving.