Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Recipe

If you’re looking for a vibrant and flavorful side dish to brighten up your holiday meal, this Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Recipe is a total game changer. It beautifully balances sweet, savory, and tangy notes with crisp-tender peas, juicy diced pear, and salty pancetta, all lifted by fresh lemon and fragrant parsley. The textures and colors make your plate pop, while the simple ingredients come together quickly to impress everyone at your table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just trying to add some excitement to your Thanksgiving spread, this dish will quickly become a beloved tradition.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish proves that sometimes the simplest ingredients yield the most delightful results. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color to make this a spectacular Thanksgiving side.

• Pancetta: Adds a salty, crispy element that enriches every bite with savory depth.
• Shallots: Bring a mild onion flavor and slight sweetness after sautéing.
• Dijon mustard: Offers a gentle tangy heat that brightens the pan sauce.
• Frozen peas: Provide natural sweetness and a tender pop of green freshness.
• Pear: Adds juicy sweetness and a delightful textural contrast.
• Lemon zest and juice: Infuse the dish with bright acidity and a fresh aroma.
• Parsley: Delivers herbal brightness that lifts the whole dish.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle spicy kick finishing the flavors perfectly.

How to Make Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Recipe

Step 1: Prep the pear

Start by peeling, slicing, and small dicing the pear. Toss the pieces gently with fresh lemon juice in a small bowl to prevent browning and add a zesty brightness. Set this aside as it will join the peas later to bring in subtle sweetness and a fresh texture.

Step 2: Cook the pancetta

Warm a large skillet over medium heat and add the pancetta dice. Cook until golden and crispy, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess fat. Keep about 3 tablespoons of the rendered fat in the pan as it will be the flavorful base for the rest of the dish.

Step 3: Sauté the shallots and add mustard

Add thinly sliced shallots to the warm pancetta fat and cook for about a minute, until they soften just enough to become fragrant and release their sweetness. Stir in the Dijon mustard to deepen the flavor and create a light sauce that clings to the peas and pears.

Step 4: Add peas and pears

Toss the frozen peas and the prepared pear dice into the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes so that the peas warm through while the pear softens slightly but remains crisp. This gently combines all the flavors and textures without overcooking.

Step 5: Stir in pancetta and parsley

Turn off the heat and fold in half of the crispy pancetta along with the chopped parsley and a generous grinding of black pepper. This finishing touch melds the dish together and adds vibrant color and a peppery note.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the peas mixture to a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining crispy pancetta and a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for an inviting burst of citrus aroma. Now your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Recipe is ready to shine on your table!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate this dish further, consider adding a few toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delicate crunch. A small handful of finely grated Parmesan can also add a luscious savory note that complements the pancetta.

Side Dishes

This side pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a hearty vegetarian main. The fresh and savory flavors cut through rich meats and creamy mashed potatoes, balancing your entire Thanksgiving feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the peas in a rustic ceramic bowl with extra lemon zest sprinkled just before serving. Alternatively, portion the dish into small ramekins and garnish individually for a sophisticated touch at dinner parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish maintains its flavor well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for enjoying the next day or as a quick lunch side.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, the texture of the pears may change slightly after thawing. If you choose to freeze, place the peas mixture in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 to 2 months for best taste.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent the peas from becoming mushy. Adding a splash of lemon juice or fresh parsley after reheating revives the dish beautifully.

FAQs

Can I substitute pancetta with bacon?

Absolutely! Bacon works well in this recipe and will give a smoky twist to the sweet and savory flavors, though pancetta provides a slightly milder, more delicate pork flavor.

What type of pear is best?

Firm pears like Bartlett or Bosc hold up better when diced and cooked briefly, offering a lovely balance of sweetness without becoming too mushy.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas are fantastic and will add a bright, sweet pop when cooked just until tender. Adjust cooking times slightly as fresh peas cook faster than frozen.

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

To make this vegetarian, swap out the pancetta for sautéed mushrooms or smoked tofu to mimic the savory depth, maintaining the delicious contrast of textures and flavors.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

This Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick yet impressive side for any holiday table.

Final Thoughts

I truly encourage you to give this Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Recipe a try. It’s such a joyful dish to make and share, offering fresh flavors and impressive textures that balance any heavy holiday plate. Whether this becomes your new family favorite or a special addition to your festive menu, it promises smiles all around the table.

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