Name: Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Pear Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Frozen Peas (No need to thaw.); 1 medium Shallot (Sliced.); 3 tablespoons Pancetta (Diced.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (No substitutions.); 1 medium Pear (Diced.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest; 2 tablespoons Parsley (Chopped.); to taste Black Pepper (Freshly ground.)

As the leaves turn golden and the air fills with the scent of baking spices, I can’t help but feel the familiar tug of nostalgia during the holiday season. My signature side dish, Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Sweet Pear, brings a delightful twist to the traditional table. Picture tender peas mingling with savory pancetta and the surprising sweetness of pears, all elevated by a hint of lemony Dijon mustard. It’s quick and easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for home cooks looking to impress without the stress. Plus, this dish is gluten-free, ensuring all your loved ones can enjoy a festive bite. So, are you ready to bring something special to your Thanksgiving feast? Let’s dive into this vibrant recipe together!

Why Are Thanksgiving Peas So Special?

Simplicity at its Finest: With just a handful of ingredients, this dish is a breeze to prepare. Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of crispy pancetta, sweet pears, and tangy Dijon mustard will have your taste buds singing. Versatile Addition: Whether as a festive side or a refreshing lunch option, these peas shine in any meal. Time-Saving: Ready in under 20 minutes, you can spend more time enjoying your guests – just like with my easy Cranberry Apple Stuffing. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve it up at Thanksgiving dinner, and watch it disappear in no time! You’re bound to have compliments from family and friends all around.

Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients

• Quick and easy ingredients for your festive side.

For the Base

Frozen Peas – Serve as the vibrant foundation of this dish; no need to thaw, as they cook quickly!
Shallots – Provide a subtle sweetness and aroma; onions can substitute but shallots are milder.

For the Flavor

Pancetta – Adds a rich, salty crunch; bacon works in a pinch if pancetta isn’t on hand.
Dijon Mustard – Offers a tangy zing that beautifully complements the sweet elements; optimal flavor achieved with no substitutions.

For the Sweetness

Pear – Gives a delightful fruity contrast to the savory pancetta; feel free to switch to an apple if pears aren’t available.

For the Zing

Lemon (Zest and Juice) – Brightens the dish and enhances flavor complexity; aim for freshness with no substitutes.

For Garnish

Parsley – Brings a pop of color and freshness; chop roughly for the best distribution in the dish.
Black Pepper – Enhances the flavors; use freshly ground for maximum taste.

This Thanksgiving Peas recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite at your holiday table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Peas

Step 1: Prep the Pear
Begin by peeling, slicing, and dicing one ripe pear into small pieces. To prevent the pear from browning, toss the diced fruit with a splash of lemon juice. Set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients, ensuring the sweet flavor of the pear shines through in your Thanksgiving Peas.

Step 2: Cook the Pancetta
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 3 tablespoons of diced pancetta. Cook for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pancetta turns crispy and golden. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the pancetta onto a paper towel-lined plate, keeping some of the flavorful fat in the pan for the next steps.

Step 3: Sauté the Shallots
In the same skillet with the pancetta fat, add one sliced shallot and cook for approximately 1 minute until softened and aromatic. As the shallots become translucent, stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard, creating a delicious base that will enhance the flavor of your Thanksgiving Peas.

Step 4: Combine Peas and Pears
Now it’s time to add 2 cups of frozen peas and the diced pear to the skillet. Stir the mixture well, cooking for about 5 minutes until the peas are heated through and vibrant green. The peas’ sweetness will blend beautifully with the savory shallots and pancetta, making this dish a delightful treat.

Step 5: Finish the Dish
Once the peas and pear are thoroughly warmed, stir in half of the crispy pancetta, along with a handful of roughly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper. Gently mix everything together before transferring the Thanksgiving Peas into a serving bowl, topping with the remaining pancetta and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas

Perfect Pancetta: Make sure to finely dice the pancetta for even crisping; larger pieces can take longer to cook and may not crisp as well.
Pea Quality: Using frozen peas straight from the freezer is key to preserving their sweet flavor; avoid thawing to maintain a great texture.
Seasoning Tips: Taste and adjust the black pepper as you go; freshly ground pepper provides a noticeable flavor boost to your Thanksgiving Peas.
Make-Ahead Option: Prep the shallots and pear in advance, storing in the fridge; this keeps the dish quick and easy to finish when it’s time to serve.
Variations to Try: Experiment with different fruits like apple or add a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added crunch; every change brings a lovely twist to the classic recipe!

Thanksgiving Peas Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to put your own twist on this delightful dish by exploring these creative variations!

Pancetta Swap: Try prosciutto for a lighter option that brings a unique flavor without the extra fat.
Consider the salty characteristics of prosciutto that still complement the sweetness of the pears beautifully.
Bacon Alternative: Use turkey bacon if you prefer a low-fat option that still adds that savory crunch to your peas.
Just remember that turkey bacon cooks differently, so keep an eye on it as you fry to achieve that perfect crispiness.
Pear Twist: Swap in diced apples for a different layer of sweetness and a crunchier texture.
The bright flavor of apples can add a refreshing burst, perfect for those who enjoy a bit more tartness in their dishes.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat that balances the sweetness of pears.
This subtle change can transform your Thanksgiving Peas into a festive dish with an enticing twist that sparks conversation!
Herb Explosion: Experiment with fresh thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for an aromatic spin.
These herbs introduce a comforting, earthy profile, bringing warmth to your holiday table.
Nut Crunch: Toss in some toasted almonds or pecans for added texture and nuttiness.
The crunchy contrast elevates the dish, making it an even more satisfying side.
Vegan Version: Use coconut oil for sautéing and substitute the pancetta with smoked tempeh for that satisfying smokiness without animal products.
This gives everyone a chance to enjoy a festive dish at the table, even those with dietary restrictions.

Now, with endless possibilities, you can turn these Thanksgiving Peas into your signature side dish! For more festive inspiration, check out my easy Cranberry Apple Stuffing, perfect for your holiday gathering!

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Sweet Pear are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the diced pear by tossing it with lemon juice and refrigerating it up to 24 hours in advance, which helps maintain its vibrant color and prevents browning. Additionally, you can cook the pancetta ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the sautéed shallots with the frozen peas and diced pear, warm everything through, and finish by stirring in the previously cooked pancetta and parsley for that deliciously fresh taste. This way, you’ll enjoy stress-free cooking and have more time to cherish with your loved ones during the holidays!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Sweet Pear

Elevate your holiday table by pairing this vibrant side dish with complementary flavors and textures that will dazzle your guests.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of mashed potatoes perfectly balances the sweet and savory notes of the peas, providing a comforting contrast.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: These tender carrots add vivid color and sweetness, enhancing the dish’s festive presentation while offering a delightful crunch.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor and crispy texture beautifully complement the salty pancetta, creating a harmony of tastes on your plate.
Baked Ham: A succulent, savory ham provides a classic holiday centerpiece, making the vibrant peas a memorable sidekick.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing zing that brightens each bite.
Savory Stuffing: A herbed stuffing with warm spices enhances the holiday spirit, working alongside the peas to offer layers of flavor.
Sparkling Apple Cider: This refreshing, bubbly drink adds a hint of sweetness and festivity, making it a perfect complement to your meal.
Pecan Pie: A slice of nutty, sweet pecan pie for dessert rounds out the meal perfectly, leaving guests with a warm, satisfying finish that’s hard to resist.

Storage Tips for Thanksgiving Peas

Fridge: Store leftover Thanksgiving Peas in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days. This ensures they stay fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Thanksgiving Peas in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave for quick reheating. Stir gently to maintain texture.

Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Sweet Pear Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the ripest pears for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for pears that are firm but slightly yielding when you gently press near the stem. If you see any dark spots, it might be best to avoid them as they can indicate overripeness. A good pear should have a sweet aroma and a smooth skin for the best results in your Thanksgiving Peas.

How should I store leftover Thanksgiving Peas?
Very carefully! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days. When ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet with a splash of olive oil, or for convenience, you can pop them in the microwave for a couple of minutes, stirring gently to maintain their texture.

Can I freeze Thanksgiving Peas? If so, how?
You can indeed! To freeze, first let the Thanksgiving Peas cool completely. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container, ensuring you leave some headspace, and seal tightly. They’ll be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.

What should I do if my pancetta isn’t crispy?
No worries! If your pancetta isn’t getting crispy, try cooking it over medium heat while stirring more frequently to allow it to crisp evenly. If it’s still struggling, it might need just a few extra minutes in the pan. Ensure the pan is hot enough to render the fat without steaming the meat; a dry surface is key to achieving that desired crunch!

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this dish?
Of course! This dish contains pancetta, which is safe for human consumption; however, it is not suitable for pets, particularly due to its high salt content. For allergies, the primary allergens in this recipe are pork (from the pancetta) and mustard. If there are mustard allergies, you could try using a bit of olive oil and vinegar for flavor instead. Always double-check your ingredients to keep everyone safe!

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
While this recipe calls for frozen peas due to their sweet flavor and vibrant color, you can certainly substitute with fresh peas! Cook the fresh peas for a little longer until tender—about 5–7 minutes—before adding the pears. Just keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t get overcooked and mushy in your Thanksgiving Peas.