Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a delightful and festive side dish to brighten your Thanksgiving table, look no further than these Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips). This dish has become a family favorite of mine, combining the sweet crunch of pears with tender turkey strips and vibrant peas. The subtle hint of lemony Dijon mustard adds a refreshing twist that makes every bite memorable. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is perfect for any occasion!

I love how easy it is to whip up this dish, making it ideal for busy weeknights as well as special holidays. It’s not just about the flavors; it’s also about bringing everyone together to share delicious food and create lasting memories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids will love the sweet pears and colorful peas, making it a hit with everyone at the table.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep some ingredients in advance, saving time on the big day.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of turkey strips, pears, and peas creates a unique taste that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand! Let’s gather everything we need for these scrumptious Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips).

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 at home or your personal tastes.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breast or roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the fruit: If pears aren’t your thing, diced apples or even dried cranberries would work beautifully.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite herbs for an extra kick of flavor!

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by peeling the pear. Slice it in half, remove the core, and then chop it into small dice. Toss those lovely pear pieces in a bowl with lemon juice to keep them fresh. This step not only adds flavor but also prevents browning!

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced turkey strips to the skillet and cook until they turn golden brown. This enhances their flavor while giving them a nice crispy texture. Once they’re cooked, be sure to transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate—this helps drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced shallots. Sauté them for about a minute until they soften up. Then stir in your Dijon mustard. Cooking shallots until they’re translucent brings out their natural sweetness, which complements our savory ingredients perfectly.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add those vibrant frozen peas and your prepped pear into the pan with shallots. Stir everything together for about five minutes until those peas are warmed through. This step ensures all those flavors meld beautifully!

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat, then fold in half of your crispy turkey strips along with freshly chopped parsley and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients off heat allows their flavors to shine without getting overcooked.

Step 6: Serve

Finally, transfer all those beautiful Thanksgiving Peas into a large serving bowl! Top with the remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest—a pop of freshness that makes this dish truly festive!

Enjoy this lovely side dish among family and friends! It’s sure to become a cherished part of your holiday celebrations too!

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

You’re just a few steps away from a delightful side dish that will steal the show at your Thanksgiving table!

• Use fresh ingredients: Opting for fresh shallots and ripe pears can elevate the flavors of this dish, making it brighter and more vibrant.
• Adjust the mustard: If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the amount of Dijon mustard. Balancing the tanginess with sweetness is key to achieving that perfect taste.
• Cook turkey strips until crispy: Ensuring the turkey strips are golden brown adds a lovely texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft peas and juicy pears.
• Don’t skip the lemon zest: Adding lemon zest not only enhances the aroma but also brings a refreshing zing that complements the sweetness of the pears wonderfully.
• Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance and gently reheated before serving. This will save you time on Thanksgiving Day!

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

Presenting your Thanksgiving Peas can be as fun as making them! A beautiful serving bowl and thoughtful garnishes can turn this delicious side into a stunning centerpiece.

Garnishes

• Chopped walnuts: Sprinkling chopped walnuts on top adds a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pears.
• Extra parsley: A handful of freshly chopped parsley not only enhances visual appeal but also adds freshness to each bite.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to squeeze extra juice over their servings, adding an extra touch of brightness.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts wonderfully with savory dishes, while their vibrant color adds to your plate’s visual appeal.
• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide a delicious crunch and additional nutrients, making them a classic complement.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The richness of creamy mashed potatoes pairs beautifully with your Thanksgiving Peas, creating a comforting combination that guests love.
• Herbed Quinoa Salad: Adding a light salad with fresh herbs and veggies offers a refreshing contrast to richer dishes, ensuring your table is balanced in flavors and textures.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) will surely impress everyone at your gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is how well it lends itself to meal prep! You can easily make this dish ahead of time, so when it comes to holiday cooking, you can focus on the main event.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the peas 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 completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

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

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh peas can be used in this recipe. Just make sure they are blanched beforehand for the best texture.

How can I add more flavor to my Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

You can enhance the flavors by adding fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for a warm spice note that complements the pears beautifully!

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

This side dish pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, stuffing, or any savory main course you plan for your Thanksgiving feast.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe! Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) brings a wonderful balance of flavors and colors to your table, making it a memorable addition to your holiday spread. As you gather around with loved ones this season, may this dish bring joy and deliciousness to your celebration. Enjoy every bite!