The aroma of sizzling pancetta wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to the bustling kitchens of Thanksgiving past. As the holiday approaches, the search for the perfect side dish begins, and I’m excited to share my recipe for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta. This festive side dish combines sweet, juicy pears with tender peas and crunchy pancetta, all tied together with a zesty splash of lemony Dijon mustard. What I love most about this dish is not only its vibrant colors that brighten any holiday table but also how effortlessly it comes together, making it a breeze to whip up even amidst the chaos of cooking for a crowd. Whether you’re hosting family or just wanting to impress your friends, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. Are you ready to elevate your Thanksgiving feast with this delightful combination?
Why Will This Dish Impress Guests?
Vibrant Colors: Your holiday table will shine with the fresh green of peas and the bright yellow-green of pears, creating a feast for the eyes.
Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for any home cook—no culinary degree needed! It comes together quickly, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The balance of sweet pears, savory pancetta, and tangy Dijon mustard creates a delicious harmony that will delight every palate. Pair it with Velveeta Mac and Cheese for a true indulgent experience!
Versatile Option: Not just for Thanksgiving, this dish is perfect for any gathering or potluck—your friends will love it!
Texture Perfection: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of crispy pancetta alongside tender peas and soft pears, making every bite a delight.
Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Ingredients
• Looking to elevate your Thanksgiving meal?
For the Dish
- Pancetta – Adds a salty, savory depth and crispy texture. Substitution: You can use bacon for a similar flavor.
- Shallots – Provides sweetness and aromatic depth. Substitution: Onions can be used if shallots are unavailable.
- Dijon Mustard – Contributes tanginess and enhances overall flavor. Substitution: Yellow mustard can be used, but will be less tangy.
- Frozen Peas – Serves as the main veggie component, adding sweetness and bright color. Note: Fresh peas can be used if in season.
- Pear – Brings sweetness and a fresh burst of flavor. Substitution: Apples can be used for a similar effect with some texture difference.
- Lemon Juice and Zest – Offers brightness and balances the richness of the pancetta. Note: Use fresh lemons for optimal flavor.
- Fresh Parsley – Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and color. Substitution: Chives or cilantro could be used in place of parsley.
- Black Pepper – Enhances flavor profile with slight heat. Note: Use freshly ground for best results.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
Step 1: Prep the Pear
Begin by peeling and slicing the pear into thin wedges, then dicing them into bite-sized pieces. To prevent browning, toss the pear with a splash of fresh lemon juice. This step is crucial to maintain the vibrant color and sweetness of the pear, ensuring the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta are visually appealing.
Step 2: Cook the Pancetta
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the diced pancetta. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pancetta is golden brown and crispy. Leave a tablespoon of the rendered fat in the skillet as it will add flavor to the dish, enhancing the savory profile of your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta.
Step 3: Sauté Shallots
Once the pancetta is perfectly crispy, add the sliced shallots to the skillet. Sauté them for approximately 2-3 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the peas and pear to blend with in your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta.
Step 4: Combine Peas and Pear
Now it’s time to add the frozen peas and the prepared pear to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the peas to warm through and the pears to become tender while still retaining their shape. This combination of sweet and savory delights will be the heart of your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta.
Step 5: Finish
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the crispy pancetta and freshly chopped parsley. Season your dish with freshly ground black pepper to taste, enhancing the overall flavor. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and garnish with the remaining pancetta and a sprinkle of lemon zest. Your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is now ready to be served!
Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish and tailor it to your taste preferences or dietary needs!
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Vegetarian Version: Swap the pancetta for smoked tempeh for a delicious plant-based alternative. It packs a similar flavor punch and is rich in protein.
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Nutty Twist: Add toasted walnuts or pecans to the dish for a delightful crunch. This not only enhances the texture but also adds a wholesome richness that complements the peas.
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Fruit Swap: Use diced apples in place of pears for a crisp, tart flavor. They’ll still provide that sweetness but with a crunchy twist that contrasts beautifully with the creamy peas.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of parsley. Adding these will elevate the dish with fragrant notes that bring a cozy warmth, making it even more comforting.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This will add an exciting background heat that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the fruit.
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Citrus Burst: Replace lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter citrus note. This bright alternative adds a unique flavor that feels festive and celebratory.
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Cheesy Addition: Stir in some crumbled feta or goat cheese just before serving for a tangy creaminess. The melted cheese beautifully binds the ingredients together, taking the dish to a new level of flavor.
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Bacon Lovers: If you adore bacon’s smoky flavor, feel free to substitute the pancetta with a crispy, cooked bacon option. This will give the dish a more familiar taste and extra crunch.
Dive into these variations and find the perfect mix for your holiday table. Whether you want a cozy, comforting recipe or a twist to wow guests, the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is versatile enough to create a memorable experience. Want more inspiration? Try pairing this with Mastering Smoked Chicken for a knockout holiday meal!
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
Imagine a table brimming with flavor, where each dish enhances the next, creating a memorable holiday feast.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture pairs perfectly with the savory notes of pancetta while balancing the sweet pears.
- Savory Stuffing: A herbed stuffing adds earthy flavors that complement the sweetness of the dish, creating a heartwarming contrast.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized edges from roasting bring a delightful crunch, enhancing the fresh flavors of the peas and pears.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and slightly tangy, they provide a vibrant pop of color alongside your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta, making every bite a treat.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing bite that livens up your plate.
- Sparkling Cider: This bubbly drink refreshing marries all the sweet and savory elements of your festive meal, capturing the holiday spirit perfectly.
- Pumpkin Pie: Finish the meal with a classic dessert that adds warmth and spice to round off the flavors of your Thanksgiving gathering.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta ahead of time is a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can prep the pear (peeled and diced) and toss it with lemon juice to prevent browning up to 24 hours in advance. Additionally, you can cook the pancetta and shallots a day ahead and refrigerate them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pancetta mixture in a skillet, then add the frozen peas and prepped pear, cooking until warmed through, which typically takes about 5 minutes. By following these steps, you’ll save time and still enjoy the delicious flavors of your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta, just as delightful as if they were freshly made!
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
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Crispy Pancetta: Ensure your pancetta reaches a golden crispness for the best texture contrast with the peas and pears.
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Watch the Peas: Do not overcook the peas; they should remain bright green and have a slight crunch for the perfect bite in your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for fuller flavor and aroma. Bottled juice can lack the brightness needed for this dish.
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Seasoning Balance: Taste as you go! Adjust the black pepper and lemon to your liking, ensuring a harmonious balance in flavors.
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Make Ahead: To save time, prepare the ingredients the day before and store separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to combine and cook.
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
Fridge: Store leftover Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Place in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the peas tender.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare ingredients a day in advance. Store the chopped veggies and cooked pancetta separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook, ensuring maximum flavor when you combine them.
Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Recipe FAQs
How can I tell if my pears are ripe?
Absolutely! Look for pears that yield slightly when pressed gently at the stem end. If they feel hard, they may need a few days to ripen at room temperature, where they can become sweet and juicy. Avoid pears with dark spots or blemishes, as they could indicate overripeness.
What’s the best way to store leftovers from the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat them gently over low heat to maintain their texture; a splash of water or broth works wonders in reviving the dish!
Can I freeze Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta?
Definitely! To freeze, place the dish in a freezer-safe container, allowing a little space at the top for expansion, and seal it well. It should last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little water if needed.
What should I do if my peas turn mushy while cooking?
The more the merrier! If your peas mush out during cooking, that’s often a sign of overcooking. Next time, just ensure you add them last and cook only until they are warmed through, as they take only about 5 minutes to heat without losing their lovely texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta?
Absolutely! This dish is not suitable for those with a pork allergy since pancetta is a type of cured meat. If you’re cooking for vegetarians or vegans, feel free to substitute the pancetta with smoked tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based stock. Always check the labels on mustard and other condiments for potential allergens.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Very much! To minimize stress on the big day, you can prepare the ingredients the night before. Chop the pears and shallots, and cook the pancetta. Store each component in separate airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just combine and cook them in the skillet—easy peasy!
Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta: A Festive Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by peeling and slicing the pear into thin wedges, then dicing them into bite-sized pieces. Toss the pear with a splash of fresh lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the diced pancetta. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and crispy.
- Once the pancetta is crispy, add the sliced shallots to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the frozen peas and prepared pear to the skillet. Stir together and cook for about 5 minutes until the peas are warm and the pears are tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in half of the crispy pancetta and freshly chopped parsley. Season with black pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with remaining pancetta and lemon zest.
