Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that will steal the show at your Thanksgiving dinner, you’ve come to the right place! My Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is one of my all-time favorites. It combines the sweetness of pears with savory turkey strips and vibrant peas, all brought together with a splash of lemony Dijon mustard. This recipe is not only delicious but also super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

I love how this dish adds a festive touch to your table while being simple enough to prepare without stress. Whether you’re hosting a big feast or just cooking for yourself, these Thanksgiving peas are sure to please everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, so you can enjoy more time with your loved ones.
• Family-Friendly: Kids adore the sweet flavors of pear combined with savory turkey; it’s a hit for both young and old!
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prep ingredients in advance, making it even easier on the big day.
• Flavorful & Festive: The combination of peas, pears, and mustard creates a unique taste that feels special for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make these delightful Thanksgiving peas!

For the Dish

• ½ pound turkey strips (cut into small dice)
• 3 medium shallots (halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced))
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 16 ounces frozen peas
• 1 pear
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest))
• ½ cup roughly chopped parsley
• freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu strips instead of turkey for a different twist.
• Add nuts: Toss in some toasted almonds or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
• Mix in other veggies: Carrots or bell peppers can add color and variety to the dish.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes will give this dish a little kick if you like some heat!

How to Make Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing the pear. This step is crucial as it allows the pear to soak up some lemon juice, which keeps it fresh and prevents browning. Once diced, stir the pear pieces with lemon juice in a small bowl and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

In a large skillet over medium heat, add your diced turkey strips. Cooking until golden brown not only makes them delicious but also adds a lovely texture to your dish. Once they’re browned, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pan onto a paper towel-lined plate. Drain off some fat but leave about three tablespoons in the pan; this will help cook your shallots beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

Next up are the shallots! Add them to your skillet and sauté for about a minute until they soften. Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness, making them a perfect complement to the savory turkey.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Now it’s time for those vibrant peas and juicy pears! Stir them into the pan with shallots. Mixing everything together for about five minutes ensures that everything warms through nicely while allowing those flavors to meld—trust me; your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Once everything is warmed through, turn off the heat! Gently fold in half of your crispy turkey strips along with parsley and freshly ground black pepper. The parsley adds freshness that brightens up all those rich flavors.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your beautiful mixture into a large serving bowl. Top it off with the remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest for that extra pop! Now it’s ready to impress at your Thanksgiving table.

Enjoy every bite of these Thanksgiving peas—they’re bound to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving Peas is all about the little details, so here are some tips to ensure your dish shines!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and ripe pears will enhance the flavor of this dish significantly. Fresh produce adds a natural sweetness and depth that frozen alternatives simply can’t match.

• Don’t overcook the peas: Adding the peas towards the end of cooking helps maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture. You want them warmed through, not mushy!

• Adjust seasoning to taste: After you mix in the black pepper, take a moment to taste your dish. This allows you to adjust the seasoning as needed, ensuring a delightful flavor balance that suits your palate.

• Experiment with herbs: While parsley is a great addition, feel free to try other herbs like thyme or dill for a unique twist. Fresh herbs can elevate your dish and add an unexpected flavor profile!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

Serving this delightful side dish is just as important as preparing it! A beautiful presentation can really make your Thanksgiving table pop.

Garnishes

• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top not only adds color but also brightens up the flavors, enhancing the overall taste experience.

• Extra chopped parsley: A handful of fresh parsley scattered over the top gives a vibrant green touch, making your dish visually appealing and fresh.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes baked until tender bring a comforting sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory peas. Toss them with olive oil and your favorite spices before roasting.

• Green Bean Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with toasted almonds provide a nice crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creamy texture of the peas.

• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the savory elements of this dish. It’s a classic Thanksgiving companion that balances flavors wonderfully!

• Stuffing: A flavorful stuffing made with herbs, vegetables, and bread provides heartiness to your meal. The textures will contrast nicely with the tender peas and juicy turkey strips!

Now you’re ready to impress your guests with this delightful side dish! Enjoy every bite at your Thanksgiving feast!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making your Thanksgiving stress-free.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the dish has cooled down before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips).

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen peas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh peas will work perfectly, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Just ensure they are tender before adding them to the dish.

How can I make Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the turkey strips and substitute them with plant-based protein like chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

What should I serve with Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

These delightful peas pair wonderfully with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or even a light salad. They add a pop of color and flavor to any Thanksgiving spread!

Can I add other vegetables to Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

Yes! Feel free to mix in other vegetables such as carrots or green beans for added variety. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is truly a special addition to any holiday table. With its vibrant colors and delicious flavors, it’s sure to be a hit among family and friends. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients or share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!