Thanksgiving Peas With Pear and Pancetta Recipe

Introduction

This easy creamy mashed peas recipe is a fresh and flavorful twist on a classic Thanksgiving side dish. The combination of sweet peas, crisp pear, and savory pancetta creates a wonderfully balanced bite that’s sure to impress. It’s a simple yet elegant addition to your holiday table that comes together quickly. For more easy vegetable sides, try this Lemony Parmesan Kale Salad Recipe or this Garlic Turmeric Rice Recipe.

Ingredients

This Thanksgiving peas side dish is a vibrant medley of salty pancetta, sweet peas and pear, and a bright, zesty lemon dressing for a truly memorable flavor and texture combination.

• ½ pound pancetta (cut into small dice)
• 3 medium shallots (halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced))
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 16 ounces frozen peas
• 1 pear
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest))
• ½ cup roughly chopped parsley
• freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	5 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes

Context: This Thanksgiving peas side dish is ready in about 15 minutes, which is roughly 30% faster than many traditional Thanksgiving side dish recipes that require roasting or baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients: frozen peas, shallots, garlic, fresh herbs like mint or dill, and a lemon. Thaw the peas by running them under cool water in a colander, then drain thoroughly. This prevents excess moisture from making the dish watery.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Add finely chopped shallots and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 3 — Cook the Peas

Add the thawed peas to the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring frequently, for 3-4 minutes. The peas are done when they are heated through and bright green. Avoid overcooking, as they can become mushy.

Step 4 — Season and Add Freshness

Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in a generous handful of chopped fresh herbs, the zest of half a lemon, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Season well with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Step 5 — Add a Finishing Touch (Optional)

For a richer flavor, stir in a pat of cold butter or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving. This adds a lovely sheen and depth to your Thanksgiving peas side dish.

Step 6 — Taste and Adjust

Always do a final taste test. You may want to add more lemon juice for brightness, another pinch of salt, or more fresh herbs. The goal is a vibrant, well-balanced flavor that complements your holiday meal.

Step 7 — Serve Immediately

Transfer your Thanksgiving peas to a warm serving bowl. This side dish is best served fresh and warm to preserve its bright color and texture. It makes a beautiful, colorful addition to the holiday table.

Nutritional Information

Calories	120
Protein	5g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	4g
Fiber	6g
Sodium	280mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates for one serving of this Thanksgiving peas side dish and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation.

Healthier Alternatives

This classic Thanksgiving peas side dish is wonderfully adaptable. Here are several simple swaps to tailor it to your dietary preferences or health goals.

• Protein Alternative — Swap bacon for diced tempeh or smoked turkey. Tempeh offers a hearty, nutty texture, while smoked turkey provides a familiar savory flavor with less fat.
• Lower-Carb Option — Replace pearl onions with chopped leeks or shallots. They add a sweet, aromatic depth without the extra carbs from the onions.
• Dairy-Free Version — Use a high-quality olive oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter. The olive oil will lend a fruity, peppery note that complements the peas beautifully.
• Gluten-Free Assurance — This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that your bacon or broth is certified gluten-free if you have a severe sensitivity.
• Low-Sodium Twist — Opt for low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth and use uncured, no-salt-added bacon. The fresh herbs and black pepper will ensure the dish is still full of flavor.
• Extra Veggie Boost — Stir in a handful of baby spinach or chopped kale during the last minute of cooking. It wilts quickly and adds color, fiber, and nutrients.
• Herb Refresh — Instead of (or in addition to) thyme, try fresh tarragon or dill for a brighter, more anise-like or grassy flavor profile.
• Creamier Texture (Dairy) — For a richer side, finish the dish with a splash of coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of extra broth.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this vibrant Thanksgiving peas side dish with classic roast turkey, savory stuffing, and creamy mashed potatoes for a complete holiday plate.
• Serve it alongside a glazed ham or herb-crusted prime rib for a festive alternative to the traditional turkey dinner.
• This dish makes a fantastic colorful addition to a Thanksgiving buffet, complementing richer sides like sweet potato casserole and green bean casserole.
• For a lighter meal, serve it with roasted chicken or a simple seared salmon fillet any time of year.
• Elevate your plating by serving the peas in a shallow, elegant bowl or directly on the dinner plate for a beautiful pop of green against other holiday foods.
• Garnish with extra fresh mint or a sprinkle of crispy fried shallots just before serving for added texture and visual appeal.

This versatile Thanksgiving peas side dish is not just for the holidays—it’s a quick, flavorful vegetable that brightens up weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using frozen peas straight from the bag without thawing. Fix: Thaw and drain them first to prevent a watery, diluted sauce that won’t cling to the peas.
• Mistake: Overcooking the peas until they turn mushy and lose their vibrant color. Fix: Add them last and cook just until heated through, preserving their bright green hue and pop of texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the step to sauté aromatics like shallots or garlic. Fix: Gently cook them in butter or oil first to build a foundational flavor that infuses the entire dish.
• Mistake: Not seasoning in layers. Fix: Season your aromatics and sauce base, then taste and adjust again after adding the peas for a perfectly balanced Thanksgiving peas side dish.
• Mistake: Letting the dish sit too long before serving. Fix: Prepare components ahead, but combine and warm just before the meal to maintain optimal texture and temperature.
• Mistake: Relying only on butter for richness. Fix: Add a splash of cream, a dollop of crème fraîche, or a pinch of Parmesan for a more complex, luxurious finish.
• Mistake: Crowding the pan when cooking additions like pancetta or mushrooms. Fix: Cook in batches if needed to ensure proper browning and caramelization, not steaming.
• Mistake: Forgetting an acidic element to brighten the rich flavors. Fix: Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of white wine vinegar to cut through the richness.
• Mistake: Serving a one-note, plain side. Fix: Elevate your Thanksgiving peas side dish with simple mix-ins like fresh herbs, toasted nuts, or crispy fried onions for contrasting texture.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Thanksgiving peas side dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled peas in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Let the dish cool completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can make the peas soggy. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

Conclusion

This Thanksgiving peas side dish is a vibrant, sweet, and savory addition to your holiday table. The combination of fresh peas, crisp pear, and salty pancetta is simply irresistible. I hope you love it! If you make it, please leave a comment below. For more festive sides, try our Southern Squash Casserole Recipe or Christmas Salad With Honey Mustard Dressing Recipe.

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Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta)

Print Recipe

• Author: Dorothy Miler

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ½ pound pancetta (cut into small dice)
• 3 medium shallots (halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced))
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 16 ounces frozen peas
• 1 pear
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest))
• ½ cup roughly chopped parsley
• 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. Set aside.
2. Cook the pancetta. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook until golden brown. Using a slotted spoon, remove the pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate. Drain off some of the rendered fat, leaving about 3 tablespoons in the pan.
3. Add the shallots. Add the sliced shallots and cook for about a minute, until softened, then stir in the mustard.
4. Add the peas and pears. Add the peas and pears to the pan. Stir for about 5 minutes, until the peas are warmed through.
5. Stir in pancetta and parsley. Turn off the heat, then stir in half the pancetta, the parsley, and black pepper.
6. Serve. Transfer the peas to a large serving bowl, top with the remaining pancetta, and garnish with lemon zest.

FAQs

Can I make this Thanksgiving peas side dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most components in advance. Sauté the aromatics and cook the bacon ahead, then simply reheat them and combine with the peas just before serving. This ensures your Thanksgiving peas side dish stays vibrant and fresh.

Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Frozen peas are a fantastic, year-round option for this recipe. They are flash-frozen at peak freshness, which helps this Thanksgiving peas side dish maintain great flavor and texture without the need for lengthy prep.

What can I use as a substitute for bacon to make it vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to sauté the aromatics. You can add a splash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to mimic a subtle smoky flavor, keeping the dish delicious and festive.