As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of crispy pancetta sizzling in the skillet brought back memories of festive family gatherings. This recipe for Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear takes a simple vegetable side and transforms it into an irresistible addition to your holiday feast. Quick to prepare, it combines sweet pears and savory pancetta, creating a delightful balance of flavors that will have your guests reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s a vibrant, colorful dish that brightens up your dinner table, making it a perfect companion for turkey or ham. Are you ready to elevate your holiday spread with a side dish that’s anything but ordinary?

Why Are Thanksgiving Peas So Special?

Bursting with vibrant flavors: The combination of sweet pears and crispy pancetta adds a unique twist to a classic side.

Quick and easy: Perfect for busy hosts, these peas come together in just minutes, making them a stress-free choice for Thanksgiving.

Versatile pairing: Whether served alongside turkey or ham, this dish complements various main courses beautifully.

Beautifully colorful: The bright green peas and golden pears create an eye-catching presentation on your dinner table.

Crowd-pleaser appeal: Impress your guests with this delightful and unexpected side dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Not only will your meal feel more festive, but you’ll also find that these thanksgiving peas are a fabulous addition to any holiday spread.

Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients

• The perfect blend of flavors starts with these key ingredients.

For the Base

Frozen Peas – Ideal for a quick, hassle-free preparation; no need to thaw before cooking.
Pear – Adds sweetness and texture; swap with diced apple if pears aren’t available.

For the Flavor

Pancetta – Brings a savory crunch to the dish; bacon can be used as a substitute if needed.
Shallots – Imparts a delicate sweetness; yellow onion makes a suitable alternative.
Dijon Mustard – Adds zesty tang and depth; whole grain mustard can offer a different texture.
Lemon – Brightens and balances flavors; other citrus fruits will work similarly for zesting.
Black Pepper – Enhances overall taste; use freshly ground for the best flavor profile.

For the Garnish

Parsley – Provides freshness and vibrant color; cilantro is a great substitute for a unique twist.

These Thanksgiving peas create a delightful, savory experience that will elevate your holiday dinner table!

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear
Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing the pear into small cubes. To prevent browning, toss the diced pear with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This adds brightness and flavor to your Thanksgiving peas while ensuring the pear retains its beautiful color.

Step 2: Cook Pancetta
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced pancetta. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pancetta is crispy and golden. Once cooked, remove the pancetta from the skillet and drain it on a paper towel, leaving a small amount of the rendered fat in the pan for flavor.

Step 3: Cook Shallots
Add the sliced shallots to the skillet with the reserved pancetta fat. Sauté them over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This step builds the savory base for your Thanksgiving peas, enhancing the dish’s depth of flavor.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the Dijon mustard, mixing thoroughly with the shallots. Next, add the frozen peas and previously diced pears directly to the skillet—no need to thaw the peas. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are heated through and bright green.

Step 5: Finish Dish
Once the peas and pears are heated, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in half of the crispy pancetta, chopped parsley, and freshly cracked black pepper for an extra kick. This final step of the Thanksgiving peas brings everything together, creating a fragrant and colorful side dish.

Step 6: Serve
Transfer the vibrant mixture to a serving bowl and top it with the remaining pancetta for added crunch. For a finishing touch, garnish with a sprinkle of lemon zest and some additional parsley. Your Thanksgiving peas with pancetta and pear are now ready to impress your guests at the holiday table!

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on the big day! You can prep the diced pear and toss it with lemon juice up to 24 hours in advance to keep it from browning. The pancetta can also be cooked and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, retaining its savory crunch. When ready to serve, simply combine the sautéed shallots, frozen peas, and prepared pears in a skillet, heating until warmed through. Stir in the pre-cooked pancetta and garnish, and you’ll have a delicious holiday side dish ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear?

As you elevate your holiday meal, complementing dishes will weave a tapestry of flavors that guests will rave about.

Herb-Roasted Turkey: Juicy, tender turkey pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of the peas, creating a classic festive harmony.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, these potatoes provide a comforting texture that balances the crunch of crispy pancetta. The buttery flavor enhances every bite!
Honey Glazed Carrots: Bright and sweet, these carrots add a pop of color and a light, refreshing taste, contrasting nicely with the savory richness of the peas.
Sausage Stuffing: A hearty, savory side that ties in rustic flavors and complements the sweetness of pears, it will round out your holiday plate beautifully.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberries cuts through the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing palate cleanser that enhances the meal.
Sparkling Apple Cider: The crisp and bubbly nature of cider refreshes the palate, making it a delightful drink that echoes the festive essence of Thanksgiving.
Pecan Pie: Indulge your sweet tooth with this classic dessert. The nutty, caramel flavors pair perfectly with the savory profile of the Thanksgiving peas, creating a satisfying end to your meal.

Thanksgiving Peas Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to make these Thanksgiving peas truly your own with these delightful tweaks and substitutions!

Bacon: Use crispy bacon instead of pancetta for a classic smoky flavor that brings comfort to any holiday meal.
Turkey Bacon: Opt for turkey bacon for a lighter option while still keeping the essential crunch and savoriness.
Honey-Glazed Pears: Drizzle the diced pears with honey before adding them for an extra layer of sweetness and caramelization.
Citrus Twist: Swap lemon juice for orange juice to introduce a bright, fruity flavor that complements the pears beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant boost that adds depth to the dish.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and a delightful nutty flavor that enhances the texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to elevate the heat and introduce a warm smokiness.
Veggie Power: Throw in some finely chopped spinach or kale for a boost of color and nutrients, making your side dish even more vibrant.

Feel free to explore customizing this recipe with these ideas and turn your Thanksgiving peas into a true masterpiece!

Storage Tips for Thanksgiving Peas

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to keep Thanksgiving peas for longer, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through for the best texture.

Enjoying Later: These peas can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for meal prep or holiday gatherings!

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas

Freshness Matters: Use fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish; it enhances the flavors of the Thanksgiving peas wonderfully.
Crispier Pancetta: To ensure perfectly crispy pancetta, allow it to drain on paper towels after cooking; this keeps the texture crunchy.
Cooking Timing: Add the peas directly from the freezer to avoid overcooking them; you want them tender yet vibrant.
Flavor Boost: Don’t skip the Dijon mustard—it’s essential for balancing sweetness with a zesty kick in your Thanksgiving peas.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a personalized touch; they can elevate the dish even further.

Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear Recipe FAQs

What kind of pears should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using ripe Bartlett or Anjou pears for their sweet flavor and soft texture. Look for pears that yield slightly to pressure but do not have dark spots or blemishes. If fresh pears aren’t available, a diced apple can work as a delightful alternative.

How should I store leftovers from the Thanksgiving peas?
Very simply! Store any leftover Thanksgiving peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil over low heat to maintain that perfect texture.

Can I freeze Thanksgiving peas for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze Thanksgiving peas, spread the cooled dish in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer for about 1 to 2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer the peas to a freezer-safe container or bag and enjoy them for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.

What if my pancetta doesn’t get crispy?
No worries! If your pancetta isn’t crispy enough, ensure you have enough heat and allow it to cook in its rendered fat for a few more minutes. If needed, you can also drain excess fat and return the pancetta to the pan to crisp it up on high heat. Keeping the temperature consistent helps achieve that perfect crunchy texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for Thanksgiving peas?
A thoughtful question! If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute the pancetta with turkey bacon or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian version. Be cautious if anyone has specific allergies, such as to nuts or gluten, and double-check the mustard’s ingredients as some varieties may contain gluten.

Can I add more vegetables to the Thanksgiving peas?
Of course! The more the merrier! Feel free to customize this dish by adding sautéed carrots, sweet corn, or even green beans for added color and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust cooking times and methods, ensuring that everything is cooked through but still vibrant and fresh for your holiday table.