Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that will impress everyone at your Thanksgiving table, you’ve found it! This recipe for Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is not only easy to make, but it also brings a burst of flavor that complements any holiday feast. The sweetness of the pears and the savory turkey strips create a wonderful harmony, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for family gatherings and even busy weeknights when you want something special without too much fuss.

I love serving this dish because it adds a festive touch to any meal. Plus, the vibrant green peas paired with juicy pears make for a beautiful presentation. You can whip this up in just 30 minutes—just enough time to enjoy a good chat with family while you cook!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep: This recipe takes only 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy cooks.
• Flavorful: The combination of sweet pears and savory turkey strips gives this dish a deliciously unique taste.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves peas, and adding turkey and fruit makes it fun and appealing to all ages!
• Versatile: Great for Thanksgiving or any dinner party, this side dish fits right in with all kinds of main courses.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare some elements in advance, so you’re ready when it’s time to serve!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! These are pantry staples that come together beautifully to create a delicious side dish.

For the Dish

• ½ pound turkey strips (cut into small dice)
• 3 medium shallots (halved and thinly sliced, about 1 cup)
• 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 mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or tofu instead of turkey strips for a different flavor profile.
• Add crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for an added crunch and richness.
• Change the fruit: Try using diced apples or even dried cranberries for a twist on sweetness.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some garlic powder for an extra kick!

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing the pear. Placing it in a bowl with lemon juice prevents browning and adds brightness. Trust me; this step enhances the flavor!

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced turkey strips and cook until they turn golden brown. This step is crucial as browning adds depth of flavor. Once cooked, set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess fat.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet, add your sliced shallots. Cooking them until softened—about one minute—releases their natural sweetness. Then stir in the Dijon mustard; this will add a lovely tangy note that ties everything together.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Next, toss in your frozen peas and diced pears into the skillet. Stirring them together for about five minutes allows everything to heat through. The warmth will soften the pears just enough to release their juices—delicious!

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat and gently fold in half of those crispy turkey strips along with chopped parsley and black pepper. This step is where all those beautiful flavors meld together.

Step 6: Serve

Finally, transfer your vibrant peas mixture to a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining turkey strips and sprinkle lemon zest on top for that fresh finish! Your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) are ready to be enjoyed by family and friends alike!

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

Making Thanksgiving Peas is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shallots and ripe pears. Fresh produce enhances the flavor and texture of your dish, making it even more enjoyable.

• Don’t overcook the peas: Add the frozen peas directly to the skillet without thawing them first. This helps maintain their vibrant color and crispness, ensuring they don’t turn mushy during cooking.

• Adjust mustard to taste: If you’re unsure about the Dijon mustard’s tanginess, start with less than the recipe calls for and adjust according to your preference. This way, you can find that perfect balance of flavor.

• Mix in some crunch: For added texture, consider tossing in some toasted nuts or seeds at the end. They provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft peas and pears.

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare this dish a few hours before serving. Just reheat gently on low heat before placing it on the table. This will save you time during your busy Thanksgiving prep!

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

Presenting your Thanksgiving Peas beautifully can make this dish stand out on your holiday table. Consider transferring them to a lovely serving bowl to showcase their vibrant colors!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley not only brightens up the dish visually but also adds a burst of freshness.
• Lemon zest: Adding additional lemon zest as a garnish elevates the citrus aroma and complements the flavors perfectly.
• Chopped nuts: A handful of chopped walnuts or pecans can be sprinkled on top for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the savory peas and turkey strips, creating a balanced plate.
• Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes adds brightness and complements the richness of the main dish.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a classic side that pairs well with almost anything, providing comfort alongside your festive meal.
• Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze add depth and a touch of acidity that perfectly balances the sweetness of pears in your dish.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Thanksgiving side! Your guests will surely appreciate this flavorful addition to their plates.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you valuable cooking time on the big day.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool entirely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, label the container with the date.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each interval until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips):

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

Yes! If you prefer fresh peas, simply blanch them in boiling water for a couple of minutes before adding them to the skillet. This will help maintain their vibrant color and crispness.

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

These peas pair wonderfully with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or any hearty main dish. They add a delightful pop of color and flavor to your holiday table!

Is there a substitute I can use instead of turkey strips?

Absolutely! You could use grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Both alternatives will complement the sweetness of the pears beautifully!

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is truly a special addition to your holiday feast. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. I hope you enjoy preparing this dish as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your own twists or experiences in making this recipe—happy cooking!