I couldn’t help but smile when I stumbled upon the perfect side dish for Thanksgiving—these Thanksgiving peas with crispy pancetta and sweet pear! This delightful medley transforms simple green peas into a flavorful experience that your loved ones will rave about. The savory goodness of pancetta pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of fresh pears, creating a dish that is both quick to prepare and irresistibly comforting. As the vibrant green peas glisten alongside the golden pancetta, it’s hard not to feel the warmth of the holiday spirit in each bite. Whether you’re hosting a grand feast or enjoying a cozy dinner, this crowd-pleaser is sure to steal the show! Curiosity piqued? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why will you love Thanksgiving Peas?

Incredible Flavor Fusion: The combination of crispy pancetta and sweet pear creates an unforgettable flavor profile that elevates ordinary peas into an extraordinary side dish.

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this savory delight, making it perfect for busy holiday preparations.

Crowd-Pleasing: Your guests will rave about this unique dish! It’s sure to become a favorite at your Thanksgiving table, pairing wonderfully with turkey or ham.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap ingredients easily! This recipe adapts beautifully with different mustards, or try it with apples for a twist.

Gorgeous Presentation: The vibrant colors of the dish, with golden pancetta and bright green peas, add a festive touch to any holiday spread! Enhance your Thanksgiving dinner with this stunning and delicious side.

Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients

For the Dish
• Pancetta – Provides savory depth and crisp texture; can substitute with diced bacon for a similar flavor.
• Shallots – Adds sweetness and an aromatic quality when cooked; remember to halve and thinly slice them.
• Dijon Mustard – Infuses a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the peas and pear; no direct substitution, but yellow mustard can work in a pinch.
• Frozen Peas – Acts as the base for the dish, adding color and sweetness; fresh peas can also be used if available.
• Pear – Lends a sweet and juicy element; using a ripe pear like Bartlett enhances flavor—an apple can be used as a substitute if needed.
• Lemon – Adds brightness through juice and zest; for the best flavor, opt for fresh lemon.
• Parsley – Offers fresh flavor and color balance; can substitute with chives or green onions if desired.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste for your desired kick.

Optional Garnish
• Lemon Zest – Provides an extra pop of brightness; don’t skip this for a finishing touch!
• Additional Pancetta – Use the leftover crispy pancetta for a delightful topping that highlights the wonderful flavors of the Thanksgiving peas.

With these Thanksgiving peas, you’re well on your way to creating a delightful side dish that your family and friends will cherish this holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Sweet Pear

Step 1: Prepare the Pear
Begin by peeling, slicing, and dicing the ripe pear, which adds a delightful sweetness to the Thanksgiving peas. To prevent browning, toss the diced pear with a splash of fresh lemon juice. Set aside so it’s ready for mixing later, bringing a vibrant contrast to the dish.

Step 2: Cook Pancetta
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and add diced pancetta. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy, releasing its savory aroma. Once done, remove the pancetta from the skillet, letting it drain on paper towels while reserving about 3 tablespoons of the luscious rendered fat for extra flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots
In the same skillet with the reserved pancetta fat, add the thinly sliced shallots. Sauté over medium heat for approximately 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the shallots are softened and translucent. As they cook, stir in a spoonful of Dijon mustard, allowing it to blend beautifully with the shallots, enhancing the taste of the Thanksgiving peas.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Next, add the frozen peas and prepared pear to the skillet, stirring everything together. Cook for about 5 minutes, letting the peas heat through and the pear soften just slightly. Keep an eye on the skillet for bright green peas, ensuring they’re well-coated in flavors while softening, but not mushy.

Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and mix in half of the crispy pancetta, a handful of chopped parsley, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Transfer the Thanksgiving peas to a serving bowl, then sprinkle the remaining pancetta on top for that irresistible crunch. Garnish with fresh lemon zest for an extra burst of brightness and serve warm.

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prep the pears and sauté the pancetta up to 24 hours in advance; simply toss the diced pear in lemon juice to prevent browning while storing it in an airtight container. Additionally, cook and refrigerate the pancetta, keeping the cooked bits crisp and flavorful. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat everything in the skillet, add the shallots and peas, and toss with the reserved pancetta. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful dish that tastes just as delicious with minimal effort on the big day, making your holiday experience more enjoyable!

Thanksgiving Peas Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to mix and match with these exciting variations to make this dish uniquely yours! Each suggestion will add a delightful twist and keep your holiday table fresh and vibrant.

Vegetarian Swap: Replace the pancetta with toasted walnuts for a hearty, crunchy texture that complements the peas and pear beautifully. This option adds a wonderful nutty flavor while keeping the dish satisfying.
Bacon Flavor: If you’re a bacon lover, simply swap out pancetta for diced bacon. Cook it until crispy just like the pancetta; this will give you that rich, addictive flavor while keeping the dish familiar and comforting.
Sweet and Spicy: For an extra kick, incorporate red pepper flakes to the sautéed shallots. This element adds a delightful heat that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pears, taking your peas to a whole new level!
Fresh Herbs: Experiment with your herb selection—try thyme or sage instead of parsley. These fragrant herbs complement the flavors of the pancetta and elevate the dish, giving it a fresh holiday spin.
Apple Variation: If pears are unavailable, switch them for diced apples. The crispness and subtle tartness of apples can provide an unexpected yet delightful contrast that works beautifully with peas.
Better Mustard: Switch up your mustard for a whole grain or spicy brown mustard. Each variation brings its own unique flavor nuances and adds an appealing texture to the dish.
Lemon Zest Boost: For those lemon lovers, increase the lemon zest and juice. This will brighten the dish even more, offering a zippy flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory elements.
Creamy Addition: Stir in a tablespoon of creme fraiche or sour cream right before serving. This creamy element can add richness and a luxurious mouthfeel, making your Thanksgiving peas even more indulgent.

For more delicious variations, don’t forget to check out our expert tips for Thanksgiving peas and make the most out of your culinary adventures this season!

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Peas

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil or in the microwave for the best flavor.

Freezer: If you need to freeze Thanksgiving peas, transfer them to freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. They can be kept for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat frozen peas, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm in a skillet on low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Taste Preservation: The peas may lose some texture when frozen, so serve them fresh whenever possible for optimal flavor!

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas

• Choose the Right Pancetta: Select high-quality pancetta for the best flavor; make sure it’s diced evenly for uniform cooking.

• Don’t Overcook Peas: To maintain their vibrant color and crunch, cook peas just until heated through; avoid mushiness for the perfect Thanksgiving peas.

• Timing Matters: Cook the pancetta first, then use the same pan for shallots to build flavor; this prevents the need for extra oil or fat.

• Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning with black pepper and Dijon mustard to match your personal preference; every taste matters!

• Leftover Love: Transform any leftovers into a breakfast treat by topping the Thanksgiving peas with a fried or poached egg for a savory morning dish.

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear?

Elevate your holiday meal with a harmonious blend of sides that complement the savory sweetness of these delightful Thanksgiving peas.

Roasted Turkey: The classic centerpiece of Thanksgiving, its juicy, savory flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the peas.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery, these potatoes offer a comforting, velvety texture that balances the crunch of the pancetta.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness and vibrant color not only enhance the meal visually but also echo the fresh, sweet notes of the pears.
Savory Stuffing: The earthy flavors of herbs and bread create a satisfying contrast to the bright peas, enriching your festive spread.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tart cranberry sauce adds an exquisite burst of flavor that cuts through the richness, making each bite versatile and exciting.
Apple Cider: Serve chilled or warmed, this drink’s sweet-tart notes echo the flavors of your side dish, refreshing the palate between bites and keeping the holiday spirit alive.
Pumpkin Pie: The classic dessert concludes your meal with warm spices, making the harmonious journey of flavors a memorable experience on your Thanksgiving table!

Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Sweet Pear Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe pears for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for pears that yield slightly to gentle pressure at the stem end for optimal ripeness. A ripe Bartlett pear is ideal due to its sweetness, but if you can’t find it, an apple can also work as a substitute.

What is the best storage method for Thanksgiving peas leftovers?
Very easy! Store your Thanksgiving peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. When reheating, add a drizzle of olive oil or warm them in the microwave for a flavorful boost!

Can I freeze Thanksgiving peas?
Yes! To freeze, place the Thanksgiving peas in freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They’ll retain their flavor for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on low in a skillet, stirring frequently.

What are some common troubleshooting tips for this recipe?
If your peas turn mushy, avoid overcooking them; they should only be heated until tender. For extra flavor, be sure to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning with black pepper and Dijon mustard to suit your preference.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you’re cooking for pets, avoid sharing this dish, as ingredients like onion (in shallots) and excessive seasoning can be harmful. Additionally, those with pork allergies can easily substitute pancetta with diced turkey or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option.

What should I do if I can’t find pancetta?
No worries! Diced bacon is a great substitute and will deliver a similar savory flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly as bacon may render more fat than pancetta.