Elevate Your Feast with Delicious Thanksgiving Peas Recipe

As the leaves start to change and the air grows crisp, the arrival of Thanksgiving signals the transition to the cozy comforts of fall. One dish that has become a beloved part of this festive holiday is Thanksgiving Peas – a vibrant and flavorful side that perfectly complements the roasted turkey, fluffy mashed potatoes, and homemade stuffing. With its blend of savory pancetta, sweet shallots, and bright citrus, this recipe is a true celebration of the season’s bounty.

Table of Contents

Gather the Essential Equipment

To ensure your Thanksgiving Peas turn out perfectly, you’ll want to have a high-quality sauté pan on hand. The All-Clad Sauté Pan is an excellent choice, known for its even heat distribution and durable construction. This versatile piece of cookware will allow you to sauté the pancetta and shallots with ease, and the large surface area will make it simple to toss the peas and other ingredients together.

Gather the Ingredients

• ½ pound pancetta, cut into small dice – Pancetta adds a savory, salty, and slightly smoky flavor to the dish, providing a delicious backdrop for the other ingredients.
• 3 medium shallots, halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced) – Shallots add a subtle sweetness that helps balance the other flavors in the recipe.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – The mustard provides a tangy depth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 16 ounces frozen peas – Using frozen peas ensures convenience and consistent quality, allowing you to enjoy this dish year-round.
• 1 pear – The natural sweetness of the pear complements the savory elements and adds a lovely texture.
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest) – The brightness of the lemon helps to balance the dish and provide a refreshing contrast.
• ½ cup roughly chopped parsley – Fresh herbs like parsley add a pop of color and a burst of flavor to the final dish.
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Seasoning with black pepper helps to tie all the flavors together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all the necessary equipment and ingredients, let’s dive into the preparation of these delightful Thanksgiving Peas:

1. Cook Pancetta: In a large sauté pan over medium heat, cook the pancetta until crisp, about 5–7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
2. Sauté Shallots: Add the shallots to the pan and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add Mustard: Stir in the Dijon mustard and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Cook Peas: Add the frozen peas and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 3–5 minutes.
5. Add Pear & Lemon: Dice the pear and add it to the pan. Stir in the lemon juice and zest.
6. Combine & Finish: Return the cooked pancetta to the pan, stir in the chopped parsley, and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Serve the Thanksgiving Peas warm as a festive side dish.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
• Maple Glazed Carrots
• Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Seasonal Salad with Pears and Pecans

FAQs

What is the best way to cook peas for Thanksgiving?

The best way to cook peas for Thanksgiving is to use frozen peas and sauté them quickly in a pan with other flavorful ingredients like pancetta, shallots, and lemon. This method helps the peas retain their vibrant color and texture while infusing them with a delicious blend of seasonal flavors.

Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh peas in Thanksgiving recipes?

Absolutely! Frozen peas are an excellent option for Thanksgiving recipes. They are convenient, retain their freshness, and provide consistent quality year-round. The flavor and texture of frozen peas work perfectly in this Thanksgiving Peas recipe.

What seasonings complement Thanksgiving peas?

The key seasonings that complement Thanksgiving Peas include Dijon mustard, lemon zest and juice, and freshly ground black pepper. These ingredients help to balance the sweetness of the peas and shallots, while also adding depth and brightness to the dish.

How far in advance can I prepare peas for Thanksgiving dinner?

You can prepare the Thanksgiving Peas up to 2-3 days in advance. Simply cook the recipe as directed, allow it to cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the peas gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to refresh the texture.

Celebrate the Flavors of the Season

With its vibrant colors, delightful textures, and harmonious blend of seasonal flavors, Thanksgiving Peas is a must-have side dish for your holiday feast. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit and a true reflection of the bounty and warmth of the autumn season. Embrace the flavors of fall and make Thanksgiving Peas a part of your holiday traditions.

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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