Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that combines vibrant flavors and comforting textures, then you’ll love these Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)! This recipe is a cherished favorite of mine, especially during the holiday season. It’s a beautiful medley of sweet pears, tender turkey strips, and bright green peas, all brought together with a hint of lemony Dijon mustard. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish will add a festive touch to your table.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something that looks and tastes gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve on busy weeknights or save for special occasions like Thanksgiving!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have this delicious side dish ready to go!
• Family-friendly: With its mild flavors and colorful presentation, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead option: You can prep some ingredients in advance to make cooking day-of even easier.
• Fresh and seasonal: The combination of peas and pears brings freshness to your plate while celebrating seasonal produce.
• Deliciously satisfying: The crispy turkey adds protein, while the sweetness of the pear balances perfectly with the savory peas.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients for this tasty side dish! These items are easy to find and come together beautifully in this recipe.

For the Main 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

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

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or tofu instead of turkey strips for a different flavor profile.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture.
• Incorporate other veggies: Try adding some diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the herbs: Fresh thyme or basil can be used instead of parsley for a unique twist.

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing your pear. This step is important because it allows the pear’s sweetness to shine through. Tossing it with lemon juice helps prevent browning while adding a refreshing zing!

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add your diced turkey strips and cook them until they turn golden brown. This not only gives them great texture but also enhances their flavor. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate. Don’t forget to leave about 3 tablespoons of fat in the pan; it will help flavor our next ingredients!

Step 3: Add the Shallots

Now it’s time to bring in those lovely shallots! Add them to the skillet, cooking for about a minute until softened. Stirring in the Dijon mustard at this stage really elevates the taste by adding depth and personality.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

It’s time for our vibrant green peas and sweet pears! Stir them into the pan, letting everything cook together for about five minutes until warmed through. This melding of flavors is where the magic happens!

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Once everything is heated through, turn off the heat. Gently fold in half of your crispy turkey strips along with that fresh parsley and some freshly cracked black pepper. This step ensures every bite bursts with deliciousness!

Step 6: Serve

Finally, transfer your gorgeous Thanksgiving Peas into a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining turkey strips for that final touch and garnish with lemon zest. Trust me; your guests will be impressed!

Enjoy making this festive dish as much as I do—it’s bound to become a favorite at your holiday gatherings!

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

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving side dish is all about attention to detail and a dash of creativity! Here are some pro tips to elevate your Thanksgiving peas.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opting for fresh shallots and ripe pears will enhance the overall flavor and texture of the dish, making it even more delightful.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Don’t be shy with the black pepper! Adjusting the seasoning can help you achieve that perfect balance between savory and sweet, enhancing each bite.

• Cook turkey strips until golden: Ensuring your turkey strips are golden brown adds a delicious crunch and depth of flavor. This contrast will make the dish even more satisfying!

• Mix in some cheese: For an extra layer of flavor, consider stirring in some crumbled feta or goat cheese right before serving. This creamy addition can provide a delightful contrast to the peas and pears.

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare everything but the final stir-in of turkey strips and parsley ahead of time. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving to save you time on Thanksgiving day!

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

Presentation can make all the difference when serving this lovely side dish at your Thanksgiving table! Here are some ideas to help you serve it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of extra lemon zest not only adds color but also enhances the lemony flavor, making each bite pop.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans can provide a nice crunch while complementing the sweetness of the pears.
• Fresh herbs: A few sprigs of fresh parsley or even thyme can add a touch of elegance to your serving dish, making it visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: The caramelized edges of Brussels sprouts add a robust flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of your Thanksgiving peas.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic offer a comforting counterpart, balancing out the textures on your plate.
• Maple-glazed carrots: The sweetness from maple syrup enhances the earthy flavors while providing bright color to your spread.
• Herbed quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs can refresh your palate between bites, bringing a healthy twist to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving feast is sure to be memorable! Enjoy every bite as you create beautiful memories around the dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors without the last-minute rush. You can prepare it ahead of time, store it properly, and even freeze portions for later use!

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.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

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

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes! Fresh peas can be used instead of frozen ones. Just blanch them briefly before adding them to the pan.

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

You can substitute turkey strips with plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. The recipe will still taste delightful!

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

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, stuffing, or even a light salad for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is not just a side dish; it’s a delightful blend of flavors that brings joy to your holiday table. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to impress your guests. Happy cooking, and may your Thanksgiving be filled with warmth and wonderful memories!