Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that will impress your guests and bring a touch of warmth to your Thanksgiving table, look no further than my Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips). This recipe is a favorite in my home, combining the sweetness of pears with the savory crunch of turkey strips and the freshness of peas. It’s not just perfect for Thanksgiving; it’s also ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The best part? It’s so easy to whip up!

This dish not only tastes amazing but also adds a vibrant pop of color to your meal. You’ll find that this simple blend of flavors will have everyone asking for seconds—trust me, it’s hard to resist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for those busy holiday preparations.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of peas, turkey, and pears appeals to both kids and adults alike—everyone will love it!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones on the big day.
• Delicious Flavor: The lemony Dijon mustard gives this dish a unique twist that complements the sweetness of the pears perfectly.
• Versatile Side Dish: While it shines at Thanksgiving, this recipe is great for any occasion throughout the year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful dish, you’ll be using some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather what we need to make these delicious Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips):

For the Base

• ½ pound turkey strips (cut into small dice)
• 3 medium shallots (halved and thinly sliced, about 1 cup)
• 16 ounces frozen peas
• 1 pear
• ½ cup roughly chopped parsley
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For Flavor

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced—about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the Protein: If turkey isn’t your thing, try using chicken or even plant-based strips for a vegetarian option.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers for an extra dose of nutrition and color.
• Change Up the Herbs: Instead of parsley, fresh thyme or rosemary can add a lovely aromatic touch.
• Try Different Fruits: Substitute apples for pears if you prefer—they offer a similar sweetness that pairs well with peas.

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing your pear into small pieces. Place them in a small bowl and stir with lemon juice. This step prevents browning and adds a bright flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add in your diced turkey strips and cook until they turn golden brown. This step is crucial because browning enhances their flavor. Once done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet, add your sliced shallots. Cook them for about one minute until they soften. This brings out their natural sweetness. Then stir in the Dijon mustard—it adds such depth to our dish!

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Now it’s time to incorporate those beautiful green peas along with your prepared pears into the pan. Stir everything together for about five minutes until everything is heated through. This melds all those wonderful flavors together!

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat! Gently fold in half of those crispy turkey strips along with your roughly chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper. This final mix adds freshness right before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your vibrant peas mixture into a large serving bowl. Top it off with the remaining turkey strips for presentation, then garnish with lemon zest. Your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) are now ready to shine at your table!

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

Creating a memorable dish is all about the little details, and these tips will help you elevate your Thanksgiving Peas to perfection!

• Choose ripe pears: Selecting ripe pears will enhance the sweetness of your dish. A perfectly ripe pear adds a juicy flavor that balances the savory turkey and peas beautifully.

• Cook turkey strips until crispy: Ensuring your turkey strips are golden brown and crispy not only adds texture but also brings out their flavor. This contrast makes each bite more delightful!

• Don’t rush the shallots: Taking the time to cook your shallots just right will develop their sweetness. Softened shallots add a lovely depth to the overall taste of the dish.

• Adjust mustard to taste: Dijon mustard can vary in intensity; start with less and add more as needed. This way, you can control the tanginess to suit your preference for a balanced flavor profile.

• Fresh herbs make a difference: Using fresh parsley instead of dried provides a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. It brightens up your dish and makes it visually appealing!

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

This festive side dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great addition to your Thanksgiving table. Here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top before serving brightens up the appearance and adds an extra zing.
• Chopped walnuts: Toasted walnuts offer a crunchy texture that complements the soft peas and pears while contributing a nutty flavor.
• Microgreens: Adding microgreens as a garnish provides an elegant touch, enhancing both visual appeal and freshness.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These naturally sweet vegetables complement the savory flavors of the peas while adding warmth to your meal.
• Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans sautéed with almonds create a delightful crunch that pairs well with the tender peas.
• Herb-Infused Quinoa: A light, fluffy quinoa seasoned with herbs offers a healthy grain option that rounds out your plate beautifully.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce contrasts nicely with the sweetness from the pears, adding depth to your Thanksgiving feast.

With these tips on preparation and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends at this year’s Thanksgiving gathering! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) dish is perfect for meal prep. You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the big day!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the peas cool down before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring between each.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious side dish!

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

Yes! Fresh peas can be used instead of frozen. Just blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding them to the skillet to ensure they cook evenly.

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

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the turkey strips and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for protein instead!

Can I prepare Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) a day ahead?

Absolutely! Preparing it a day ahead not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they sit together overnight.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) as much as I do! This dish adds a delightful touch of sweetness and savory goodness to any Thanksgiving table. It’s not just easy to prepare but also wonderful for sharing with family and friends. Happy cooking, and may your holiday be filled with love, laughter, and delicious food!