Name: Savory Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish with Crispy Pancetta Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Frozen Peas (Fresh peas can also be used for added crunch.); 2 tablespoons Shallots (Slice thinly for quicker sautéing.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Any mustard works as a substitute.); to taste Black Pepper (Enhances seasoning.); 4 ounces Pancetta (Bacon or prosciutto can stand in if preferred.); 1 medium Pear (Apples can be a suitable alternative.); 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best taste.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Can be substituted with herbs like basil or cilantro.)

Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish - Downshiftology

The holiday season brings about a flurry of delicious traditions, and this Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Pear dish is one you’ll want to add to your repertoire. Just picture it: the vibrant green peas glistening alongside golden-brown crispy pancetta, all beautifully balanced by the sweetness of juicy pears. This savory side dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful medley of flavors that will enchant your guests.

When I first tried this recipe, I was admittedly skeptical about mixing fruit with peas—until I took that first bite! The unexpected harmony between the tangy Dijon mustard and fresh lemon zest adds a spark of brightness that elevates this dish beyond the usual holiday fare. Quick to prepare and easily customizable, it makes for a perfect addition to any Thanksgiving table, whether you’re serving a crowd or just your closest family members. Ready to discover how this flavorful combination can redefine your next festive gathering? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish so special?

Unique Flavor Experience: This dish combines sweet pears with savory pancetta, delivering a delightful balance that excites the palate.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, you won’t be stuck in the kitchen while the turkey roasts!
Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap in ingredients like bacon or different fruits for a personalized touch.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This visually stunning dish will impress your guests and quickly become a holiday favorite.
Low-Carb Option: Make it lighter by skipping the pancetta for a delicious vegetarian version without compromising taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: While ideal for Thanksgiving, these peas shine at potlucks or cozy family dinners too.

Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish Ingredients

For the Peas
• Frozen Peas – The main component, providing sweetness and a vibrant color; fresh peas can also be used for added crunch.
• Shallots – Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor; slice thinly for quicker sautéing.
• Dijon Mustard – Imparts a tangy depth; any mustard works as a substitute.
• Black Pepper – Enhances seasoning; adjust according to your taste.

For the Crispy Pancetta
• Pancetta – Brings savory richness and a satisfying crunch; bacon or prosciutto can stand in if preferred.

For the Sweetness
• Pear – Sweetens the dish and contrasts beautifully with pancetta; apples can be a suitable alternative.
• Lemon (zest and juice) – Brightens flavors; fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best taste.

For Garnishing
• Fresh Parsley – Offers a pop of color and freshness; can be substituted with herbs like basil or cilantro if preferred.

This Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish is quick, savory, and perfect for your festive gathering!

How to Make Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish

Prep the Pear: Peel, slice, and dice the pear; toss it with lemon juice to prevent browning. This step adds sweetness and keeps the pear vibrant.
Cook Pancetta: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add pancetta, and cook until crispy—about 5-7 minutes. Remove and drain excess fat, leaving about 3 tablespoons in the pan for flavor.
Sauté Shallots: Add the sliced shallots to the pan and cook until softened, about 1 minute. Stir in the Dijon mustard, allowing the tangy flavor to meld with the shallots.
Combine Ingredients: Add frozen peas and diced pears to the skillet; stir for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through and the peas are bright green.
Finish Dish: Turn off heat and mix in half of the crispy pancetta, along with parsley and black pepper. Transfer to a serving bowl, topping with remaining pancetta and a garnish of lemon zest for extra brightness.

Optional: Drizzle with a touch of olive oil for added richness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Pear are perfect for meal prep aficionados! You can chop the pear and toss it with lemon juice to prevent browning up to 24 hours ahead, keeping it fresh and ready to go. Additionally, you can prepare the crispy pancetta and sauté the shallots in advance; store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the pancetta and shallots in a skillet, add in the peas and diced pears, and stir until heated through. This way, you’ll delight in a delicious and festive side dish with minimal effort, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday spirit!

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish

Quality Ingredients: Choose the freshest peas and ripe pears for the best flavor; frozen peas can be convenient, but fresh peas make a noticeable difference.
Avoid Soggy Pancetta: Ensure your pancetta is crispy before mixing it in; excess fat can make the dish greasy. Cook it until golden brown!
Customize Flavor: Adjust the amount of Dijon mustard to suit your taste; if you’re not a mustard fan, try using a milder sauce for a different flavor profile.
Slice Evenly: When prepping shallots and pears, aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking. Thick pieces may not soften properly in the mix.
Versatile Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients; turkey bacon and apples can be delightful alternative choices in this Thanksgiving peas side dish.
Serve Warm or Room Temp: This dish is delightful at any temperature, making it perfect for potlucks where food may sit out a bit. Enjoy!

Thanksgiving Peas Variations

Get ready to customize this delightful side dish into something uniquely yours with these fun twists!

Bacon Swap: Replace pancetta with crispy bacon for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet pears.
Vegetarian Delight: Omit the pancetta entirely and add nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch and flavor depth.
Apple Alternative: Use diced apples instead of pears for a firmer texture and a different sweet note. The crisp bite of apples complements the peas nicely.
Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or tarragon instead of parsley for a fragrant herby touch that brightens the dish.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to introduce a touch of heat that balances the sweetness of the pears.
Lemon Zing: Amp up the citrus flavor by adding orange zest or juice instead of lemon for a refreshing twist.
Creamy Finish: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of crème fraîche right before serving for an indulgent, velvety texture.
Nutty Crunch: Top the dish with toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch and added nutrition.

Let your creativity shine and make this holiday dish truly your own!

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. This Thanksgiving Peas side dish tastes great reheated with a drizzle of olive oil.

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.

Room Temperature: If serving at a potluck, keep it at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate any leftovers to maintain freshness.

Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of lemon juice to revitalize the flavors before serving again!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Pear?

These delightful peas offer a unique taste that will elevate your holiday feast to delicious new heights.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, these mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the crispy pancetta and sweet pears.
Roasted Turkey: The classic centerpiece of Thanksgiving, its juicy, savory flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet and salty notes in the peas.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness and slight crunch offer a delightful textural contrast, while the honey glaze complements both the peas and pancetta.
Fresh Green Salad: A light, zesty salad with citrus vinaigrette brightens the meal and adds freshness, balancing the richness of the pancetta.
Stuffing: Hearty and savory, stuffing brings warmth to the table, and when paired with these festive peas, creates a harmonious Thanksgiving plate.
Cranberry Sauce: The tart sweetness of cranberry sauce cuts through the savory richness, making for a classic combination that’s a must-have on any Thanksgiving spread.
Sparkling Cider: Perfectly refreshing, this bubbly drink brings a festive touch, enhancing the celebration and complementing the flavors of the entire meal.
Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic dessert, its warm spices providing a delightful contrast to the savory elements of your feast.

Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Pear Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pears for the Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Pear dish?
Absolutely! Choose pears that are slightly firm but yield to gentle pressure. Look for pears without blemishes or dark spots, which can indicate overripeness. If you find ripe pears, be ready to use them quickly—they’re best for this dish when they’re juicy and fresh!

What’s the best way to store leftovers from the Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Pear dish?
For leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 4-5 days. I like to reheat them gently in a skillet, adding a drizzle of olive oil to keep the flavors vibrant and delicious!

Can I freeze the Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Pear dish?
Yes! To freeze, portion the dish into airtight containers or freezer bags, and store it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

What if my pancetta isn’t getting crispy? What should I do?
Very good question! If the pancetta isn’t crisping up, ensure your heat is sufficiently high, as medium heat can sometimes leave it soggy. For best results, cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it turns a lovely golden brown. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan, as that can prevent it from crisping nicely.

Are there any dietary considerations for the Thanksgiving Peas dish?
Indeed! This dish can easily be made vegetarian by omitting the pancetta and adding extra veggies or nuts for texture. Additionally, if you or your guests have allergies, check the ingredients—especially the mustard, as it can contain allergens. Always feel free to swap in a different condiment if necessary!

Can I prepare the Thanksgiving Peas with Crispy Pancetta and Pear dish in advance?
Absolutely! This dish can be prepped a day ahead. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of combining the ingredients, then refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, warm it up gently, and you’ll have a delicious side ready to impress your guests!