Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta) Recipe
Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is a delightful side dish that combines the sweetness of fresh pears and peas with the savory, crispy pancetta. Enhanced with shallots, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon, this recipe brings a bright, flavorful twist perfect for holiday dinners or any time you want a vibrant vegetable accompaniment.
- Author: Grace
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Pancetta and Shallots
- ½ pound pancetta, cut into small dice
- 3 medium shallots, halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Vegetables and Fruits
- 16 ounces frozen peas
- 1 pear, peeled, sliced, and small diced
Seasonings and Garnishes
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest)
- ½ cup roughly chopped parsley
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Prep the pear: Peel, slice, and dice the pear into small pieces. Place them in a small bowl and toss with the lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside.
- Cook the pancetta: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until it is golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pancetta onto a paper towel-lined plate. Drain off most of the rendered fat, leaving about 3 tablespoons in the pan.
- Add the shallots: Add the thinly sliced shallots to the pan and cook for about one minute, or until softened. Stir in the Dijon mustard, mixing well to combine.
- Add the peas and pears: Add the frozen peas and prepared pear pieces to the skillet. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until the peas are warmed through and the pears are heated.
- Stir in pancetta and parsley: Turn off the heat. Stir in half of the crispy pancetta, the chopped parsley, and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Transfer the peas mixture to a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining pancetta and garnish with the lemon zest for a fresh citrus aroma and presentation.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh frozen peas and do not overcook them to maintain their bright color and texture.
- If pancetta is unavailable, substitute with good-quality bacon, but reduce salt accordingly.
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile side for holiday meals.
- Adjust pepper and lemon zest to your taste preference for more brightness or spiciness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Thanksgiving peas, peas with pear, pancetta side dish, holiday side dish, sautéed peas, pear and pancetta recipe, vegetable side, fall recipes