Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta) Recipe

If you are looking for a vibrant, flavorful side dish that perfectly balances savory and sweet, look no further than Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta). This dish combines tender peas brightened with fresh lemon, sweet diced pear, and the irresistible crispiness of pancetta. It’s a timeless recipe that brings color, texture, and a burst of freshness to your holiday table or any special meal. The harmony of ingredients makes it a crowd-pleaser, showcasing how simple components can create a memorable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role in achieving that perfect blend of flavors and textures. From the salty crunch of pancetta to the juiciness of fresh pear and the zing of lemon, every element contributes to a divine dish that’s both comforting and lively.

• Pancetta: Provides a rich, salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet and tender peas.
• Shallots: Add subtle sweetness and a delicate aroma, mellowed by light cooking.
• Dijon mustard: Gives a hint of tang that enhances the savory notes without overpowering.
• Frozen peas: The star of the dish, offering a pop of green color and fresh flavor.
• Pear: Adds a juicy, slightly sweet component that complements the pancetta perfectly.
• Lemon zest and juice: Brightens the dish with citrusy freshness and lifts all the flavors.
• Parsley: Brings a fresh, herbaceous note and a burst of green vibrancy.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds warmth and subtle spice to finish the dish.

How to Make Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta)

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing the pear into small, manageable pieces. Toss these diced pears with fresh lemon juice to prevent browning and add a zesty brightness. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the other ingredients—this step ensures that the pears stay fresh and flavorful when added later.

Step 2: Cook the Pancetta

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the diced pancetta. Cook it until golden brown and irresistibly crispy. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat, then leave about three tablespoons of the rendered fat in the pan for the next steps. This flavorful fat will infuse the dish with deeper savory notes.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

Into that same pan with the pancetta fat, add the thinly sliced shallots. Sauté for about a minute or until they soften and release their gentle sweetness. Stir in the Dijon mustard to incorporate a subtle tang that will beautifully balance the richness of the pancetta.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Add the frozen peas and the lemon-coated diced pears to the skillet. Stir gently and cook for roughly five minutes, allowing the peas to warm through and the pear to stay tender but maintain its structure. This melding ensures a delightful textural contrast with every bite.

Step 5: Stir in Pancetta and Parsley

Turn off the heat, then gently fold in half of the cooked pancetta and the chopped parsley. Season with freshly ground black pepper to your liking. The parsley lifts the dish with fresh herbal notes, while the pepper adds just the right kick of warmth.

Step 6: Serve Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta)

Transfer the peas mixture to a large serving bowl. Sprinkle the remaining crispy pancetta on top for an eye-catching garnish, then finish with a generous sprinkle of lemon zest to brighten the final presentation. This is when the dish truly shines, offering a feast for both the eyes and palate.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta)

Garnishes

Adding fresh lemon zest over the top is a simple yet stunning way to boost the freshness of your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta). A few extra sprigs of parsley or a light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can elevate the dish further. For a little crunch, toasted nuts like almonds or hazelnuts can be sprinkled on top, adding another layer of texture.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or baked chicken, making it an ideal companion for any Thanksgiving feast. It also works perfectly alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a savory stuffing, balancing richer flavors with its uplifting brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, serve Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta) in a hollowed-out bread bowl or on individual mini leaf lettuce cups for a fresh, handheld option. You could also layer it as part of a composed salad, topped with crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese for added indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta) can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. The flavors often meld further after resting, making it a great make-ahead side dish. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the ingredients evenly.

Freezing

Because fresh peas and pears have delicate textures, freezing this dish is not recommended. However, if you need to save time, you can freeze just the cooked pancetta separately to reheat and toss in fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the peas from becoming mushy. Adding a splash of fresh lemon juice or a bit of olive oil during reheating can help revive the brightness and prevent dryness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen for Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta)?

Absolutely! Fresh peas will add a lovely sweetness and a slightly crisper texture. Just blanch them briefly before adding to the pan since they cook faster than frozen peas.

What type of pear is best for this recipe?

A firm pear such as Bartlett or Bosc works best because it holds its shape well when cooked, providing a perfect balance of sweet and juicy without turning mushy.

Is pancetta the only meat option I can use?

Though pancetta’s salty crunch is ideal, you can substitute it with bacon if pancetta is not available. Just adjust the salt accordingly, as bacon can sometimes be smokier and saltier.

Can I make Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta) vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the pancetta and instead sauté the shallots in olive oil or butter. Adding toasted nuts like walnuts can bring some of the crunch and richness back to the dish.

How far ahead can I prepare this dish before serving?

You can prep all the ingredients earlier in the day, cook the pancetta and shallots, and store everything separately in the fridge. Combine and warm through roughly 10 minutes before serving for the best flavors and textures.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta) is a delightful, underrated side that deserves a place on your table every holiday season. Its perfect balance of sweet, salty, and bright flavors makes it a refreshing change and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a personal favorite that you’ll reach for year after year. So go ahead, give it a whirl and enjoy the delicious magic it brings to your meal!

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