The aroma of crispy pancetta sizzling in the skillet makes my heart skip a beat. As Thanksgiving approaches, I’m always on the hunt for that perfect side dish that warms the soul and elevates the festive table. This year, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear—a dish that’s as easy to whip up as it is delightful to eat. The combination of sweet pears, tender peas, and savory pancetta creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is sure to captivate your guests. Plus, it comes together in a flash, making it a hassle-free addition to your holiday spread. Ready to impress your family and friends with a mere handful of simple ingredients? Let’s dive into this deliciously unique side that’s destined to become a new Thanksgiving favorite!

Why Are Thanksgiving Peas So Irresistible?

Uniquely Delicious: This recipe blends sweet pears with savory pancetta, creating an unforgettable flavor profile that stands out on any Thanksgiving table.
Quick and Easy: You can prepare this dish in just a flash, allowing you more time to focus on the turkey or enjoy festivities with family and friends.
Versatile Substitutions: Don’t have all the ingredients? Feel free to swap in apples for pears or turkey bacon for pancetta—it’s adaptable to your pantry!
Crowd Pleaser: With its vibrant colors and a delightful contrast of textures, it’s not just a side—it’s a dish that will impress everyone, whether they’re foodies or picky eaters.
Serve it alongside mashed potatoes or turkey for a complete Thanksgiving feast that’s both festive and comforting!

Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients

For the Peas
• Frozen Peas – The star ingredient, providing a sweet and vibrant taste.
• Pear – Adds a delightful sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the pancetta; apples can serve as an alternative.

For the Pancetta
• Pancetta – Brings a rich, savory flavor; thick-cut bacon can be a suitable substitute.
• Shallots – Infuse aromatic sweetness, with yellow onions being a handy replacement if needed.

For the Dressing
• Dijon Mustard – Enhances the dish with a zesty flavor; whole grain mustard offers a unique texture twist.
• Lemon – Brightens the dish and balances the flavors; citron juice works if lemon isn’t on hand.

For the Finish
• Parsley – Adds a fresh touch and color; chives or green onions can also freshen things up.
• Black Pepper – Elevates the overall taste profile; freshly ground is best for optimal flavor.

This Thanksgiving Peas recipe will not only complement your holiday meal but will also become a cherished dish for family gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Peas

Step 1: Prep the Pear
Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing one pear into small chunks. To prevent browning, toss the pieces in a little lemon juice and set them aside. The vibrant color of the pear will add a delightful sweetness when mixed with the savory pancetta in your Thanksgiving Peas dish.

Step 2: Cook the Pancetta
In a large skillet, heat the pan over medium heat and add the diced pancetta. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it becomes crispy and golden. Once done, remove the pancetta with a slotted spoon, allowing the excess fat to drain, but leave about 3 tablespoons of grease in the pan for flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Shallots
Next, add the sliced shallots to the same skillet and sauté them in the pancetta fat over medium heat for about 1 minute, until they become softened and translucent. This step enhances the aromatic sweetness in your Thanksgiving Peas and sets the stage for the additional ingredients.

Step 4: Mix in the Dijon Mustard
Stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard with the sautéed shallots, coating them well and cooking for another minute. This addition brings a zesty tang that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the pancetta and the sweetness of the pear.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
Now, add the frozen peas and prepared pear chunks into the skillet, stirring gently. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes, allowing the peas to warm through and become vibrant green. The combination of textures from the peas and pears will make your Thanksgiving Peas a standout side dish.

Step 6: Finish the Dish
Finally, mix in half of the crispy pancetta along with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Give everything a good stir before transferring the mixture to a serving bowl. Top it with the remaining pancetta and a zest of lemon for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Peas

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days. This allows you to enjoy the flavors of the Thanksgiving Peas another day.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before placing it in the freezer.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the texture of the peas and pancetta.

Make-Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just remember to reheat it slowly to avoid overcooking the peas!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear?

This festive side dish pairs beautifully with comforting and classic flavors that elevate your holiday meal.

Roasted Turkey: The juicy, savory flavor of roasted turkey creates a perfect harmony with the sweetness of the peas and pears.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and buttery, mashed potatoes provide a wonderful texture contrast to the crunchy pancetta and tender peas.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness complements the savory elements of the Thanksgiving Peas while adding a pop of vibrant color to your plate.
Green Bean Almondine: The crisp texture of green beans and the nutty crunch of almonds offer a delightful balance, reminiscent of cozy holiday gatherings.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart and sweet burst of flavor, cranberry sauce brightens up the plate, cutting through the richness of the pancetta.
Apple Cider Cocktail: This refreshing drink enhances the meal with hints of spice and sweetness, creating a festive atmosphere all around.

Your Thanksgiving Peas will shine even more brightly on a table filled with these complementary delights!

Thanksgiving Peas Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to tweak this recipe and make it your own, adding flavors and ingredients that excite your taste buds!

Turkey Bacon: Swap pancetta for turkey bacon to create a leaner version without sacrificing flavor. The smoky notes will still shine through, making it a delightful alternative.
Nutty Crunch: Add toasted almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch. Not only does this enhance texture, but it also provides a nutty contrast to the sweet pears.
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like green beans or roasted carrots for added color and nutrition. This versatility ensures you can rotate ingredients based on what’s fresh and available.
Fruit Twist: Replace pears with apples for a different kind of sweetness. Their tartness can brighten the overall dish, offering yet another lovely flavor dimension.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to bring some heat into the mix. This tiny tweak will take your Thanksgiving Peas to an exciting new level of flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or sage instead of parsley to give a seasonal twist. Each herb brings a unique fragrance and taste, inviting a fresh take on a classic dish.
Gluten-Free Dressing: For a gluten-free option, ensure your mustard and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. This keeps everyone at the table happy while enjoying a guilt-free meal!
Creamy Addition: Fold in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness. This would transform your peas into a luscious side dish that feels indulgent and comforting.

Diving into these variations will not only make this dish more uniquely yours and will create unforgettable memories at your holiday celebrations. Serve alongside mashed potatoes or roasted turkey to round out a perfect Thanksgiving meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear are a fantastic dish to prep ahead, saving you precious time during the busy holiday season! You can chop the pear and toss it in lemon juice to prevent browning up to 24 hours in advance, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, you can cook the pancetta and shallots a day ahead; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container. When you’re ready, just combine the prepped ingredients in a skillet, add the peas and pear, and cook briefly until warmed through. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful dish that’s just as delicious and packed with flavor but requires minimal effort when it’s time to serve!

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas

• Freshness Counts: Using frozen peas is perfect for this dish, but if you have fresh peas, feel free to substitute for an even brighter flavor!

• Right Pancetta: Make sure to choose high-quality pancetta for the best savory flavor; thick-cut bacon works too, but it may alter the taste slightly.

• Lemon Juice: Don’t skip the lemon juice! It balances sweetness and acidity beautifully. If you forget, the dish may taste flat.

• Avoid Greasiness: Drain excess fat after cooking the pancetta but leave some for flavor. Too much grease can make your Thanksgiving Peas soggy.

• Mix and Match: Don’t hesitate to experiment with substitutes, like using apples instead of pears or even adding nuts for a crunchy twist! This recipe is versatile.

These tips will help ensure your Thanksgiving Peas are a hit at your holiday gathering!

Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pears for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for pears that are slightly firm to the touch but give a little when gently pressed. Avoid any with soft spots or bruising. Varieties like Bartlett or Anjou are great choices due to their sweet flavor and smooth texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover Thanksgiving Peas?
Very! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for 4–5 days. Just remember to reheat it gently to maintain that delicious texture.

Can I freeze Thanksgiving Peas?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the peas cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

What should I do if my pancetta isn’t crispy?
No worries! If your pancetta isn’t getting crispy, try increasing the heat slightly but keep an eye on it to avoid burning. Ensure you’re using enough fat in the pan for frying. Cooking in batches can also help achieve that desirable crispiness.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This dish is gluten-free as written, but always check your mustard’s label to ensure there are no added gluten ingredients if that’s a concern. For those with meat allergies, you can substitute pancetta with turkey bacon or omit it altogether, using a little olive oil for flavor instead.

Can I make substitutions for the ingredients?
Certainly! If you’re out of pears, apples are a great alternative. You can swap pancetta for turkey bacon or even eliminate it entirely for a vegetarian option. Fresh peas can replace frozen ones, and feel free to mix in some nuts for extra crunch—experiment to find what you love best!