Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that brings warmth and comfort to your Thanksgiving table, look no further than my Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips). This recipe is not only simple to make, but it’s also packed with flavors that will impress your family and friends. I love how the sweetness of the pears pairs beautifully with the savory turkey strips, all brought together with a touch of lemony Dijon mustard.

What makes this dish so special is its versatility. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a festive family gathering, these Thanksgiving Peas are always a hit. Plus, they take just 30 minutes from start to finish, leaving you more time to enjoy the company of your loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for any occasion, even on those busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: With its delicious combination of flavors and textures, kids and adults alike will adore this dish!
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prep the ingredients in advance, allowing for an easy assembly when it’s time to eat.
• Festive Flavor: The mix of sweet pears and savory turkey strips gives a unique twist that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like peas and parsley, this dish is as nutritious as it is tasty.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and prepare. Let’s gather everything we need for these tasty Thanksgiving Peas!

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

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! It’s flexible enough to adapt based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of turkey strips for a different flavor.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and richness.
• Change up the fruit: Substitute apples or even dried cranberries if you want a different fruity twist.
• Try different herbs: Swap out parsley for fresh thyme or rosemary to give an aromatic touch that complements the peas beautifully.

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. Placing them in a bowl with lemon juice will keep them fresh and prevent browning. This step adds a refreshing sweetness that balances out the savory elements of the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat up a large skillet over medium heat. Add your turkey strips and cook them until they’re golden brown. This step is crucial because browning enhances their flavor. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Remember to leave some fat in the pan—it will help sauté your shallots later!

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet, add your sliced shallots. Sauté them for about a minute until they soften. This will develop their natural sweetness before stirring in the Dijon mustard. The mustard adds an exciting tang that elevates all other flavors in this dish.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Next up, toss in those lovely green peas along with your diced pears. Stir everything together for about five minutes until warmed through. The gentle heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping everything vibrant.

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat now! Stir in half of your cooked turkey strips along with chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper. This final touch adds freshness while ensuring every bite has that hearty turkey flavor.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your Thanksgiving Peas to a large serving bowl. Top it off with remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest for an extra pop of brightness! Your guests will be drawn in by both its beautiful appearance and mouthwatering aroma.

Now you’re ready to enjoy one of my favorite Thanksgiving side dishes! I hope this becomes as beloved in your home as it has in mine!

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

Making Thanksgiving Peas is a breeze, but a few tips can take your dish from good to unforgettable!

• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, choose fresh shallots and ripe pears. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavors and give your dish a vibrant taste that frozen or canned options can’t match.

• Don’t skip the lemon zest: Adding lemon zest at the end brightens up the dish with a fresh citrus note. It balances the sweetness of the peas and pears, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone has different preferences, so feel free to add more black pepper or even a pinch of salt if desired. Tasting as you go allows you to personalize this dish for your family’s palate.

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the turkey strips and sauté the shallots in advance. When you’re ready to serve, just combine everything, which saves you time on Thanksgiving Day.

• Experiment with herbs: While parsley is delightful, consider mixing in other herbs like thyme or rosemary for an additional layer of flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish and make it feel extra special.

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

Presenting your Thanksgiving Peas beautifully can make them even more inviting! Here are some ideas to make it shine on your dinner table.

Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: A couple of lemon wedges on the side not only look pretty but also allow guests to add more lemon juice if they like.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the pears.
• Fresh parsley sprigs: A sprinkle of whole parsley leaves on top adds freshness and color, making your dish pop visually.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The caramelized sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory elements in this dish. Simply toss cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil and your favorite spices, then roast until tender.

• Green Bean Almondine: This classic side features sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds. The crunchiness of nuts against tender beans provides a great texture contrast alongside your peas.

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with chopped vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of turkey strips while adding a healthy grain option to your meal.

• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce is an excellent counterpoint to the sweet peas and pears. It adds a festive touch that everyone loves during Thanksgiving!

I hope these tips and serving ideas inspire you as you prepare this delightful side dish for your holiday table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, allowing you to enjoy more time with your family during the holiday festivities.

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 peas cool down before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible from the bag.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even heating.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delightful dish, here are some common questions that might help!

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

Absolutely! If you have access to fresh peas, feel free to swap them in. Just be sure to blanch them briefly before adding them to the skillet.

How can I customize Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) for different tastes?

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or green beans for extra color and nutrition. Feel free to experiment with herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added flavor!

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, stuffing, or any of your favorite holiday sides. It’s a versatile addition that complements many main dishes!

How long does it take to prepare Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

The prep time is just around 10 minutes, followed by a quick cooking time of about 20 minutes. In just half an hour, you’ll have a delicious side ready for your Thanksgiving table!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and flavor to your Thanksgiving gathering! The combination of sweet pears, savory turkey strips, and vibrant peas creates a unique side dish that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Enjoy making this delightful addition to your feast, and may your holiday be filled with warmth, love, and great food. Happy cooking!