Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive side dish for your Thanksgiving table, you’ve come to the right place! My Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. This delightful mix of frozen peas, crispy turkey strips, and sweet pears comes together with a hint of lemony Dijon mustard that brightens up the flavors beautifully. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings alike!

What makes this dish so special is not only its vibrant colors but also its delicious combination of textures and tastes that everyone loves. It’s a simple way to add a touch of elegance to your meal while keeping things hassle-free. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a stunning side dish ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The sweet flavor of pears combined with savory turkey strips makes this dish appealing to both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, making it easy to whip up when you’re ready.
• Delicious Flavor: The subtle lemony Dijon mustard adds a bright twist that elevates the classic peas and turkey combo.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect not only for Thanksgiving but also for any family dinner or potluck gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find in your pantry or local grocery store. Let’s gather what we need for these scrumptious Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips):

• 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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or plant-based turkey alternatives if you prefer!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Experiment with herbs: Try substituting parsley with fresh thyme or cilantro for different flavor profiles.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end for a creamy 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 adds a lovely sweetness to your dish! To keep the pear from browning, toss it in a small bowl with lemon juice. Set it aside while you work on the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat up a large skillet over medium heat. Add in your diced turkey strips, cooking them until they turn golden brown. It’s important not to rush this step as browning enhances their flavor. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate. Remember to leave about three tablespoons of rendered fat in the pan—this will help flavor our shallots!

Step 3: Add the Shallots

Now it’s time for those aromatic shallots! Add them into the skillet and sauté them for about one minute until they soften up nicely. Stirring in Dijon mustard at this point infuses everything with that tangy flavor we love.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Next up is adding our beautiful green peas and sweet diced pears into the mix! Give everything a good stir and let it cook together for about five minutes until the peas are heated through. This step allows all those flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat, then gently fold half of your cooked turkey strips back into the skillet along with half of your freshly chopped parsley. Don’t forget that sprinkle of black pepper—it really ties everything together!

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your gorgeous mix of Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) into a large serving bowl. Top it off with the remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest for that beautiful finishing touch. Enjoy every bite!

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

Making Thanksgiving Peas is a breeze, especially when you have a few tips up your sleeve!

• Prep Ahead: Dicing the pear and slicing the shallots in advance can save you valuable time on busy cooking days. This way, everything is ready to toss into the skillet.
• Don’t Overcook the Peas: To keep that vibrant green color and fresh flavor, only cook the peas until they’re warmed through. Overcooking will cause them to lose their bright appearance and crispness.
• Adjust Seasoning as Needed: Taste your dish before serving! Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add more pepper or even a pinch of salt if needed.
• Use Fresh Parsley: While dried herbs are handy, fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor and color that really enhances this dish. It also brings a lovely freshness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Make it Your Own: Feel free to experiment with other herbs or add-ins like diced bell peppers or nuts for added texture. This recipe is versatile and can be tailored to suit your family’s preferences!

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

Presenting this dish beautifully can elevate not just its taste but also its visual appeal on your Thanksgiving table. Here are some ideas for serving!

Garnishes

• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the citrusy notes already present in the dish.
• Chopped Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans can provide a nice crunch and rich flavor contrast, making each bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory turkey strips and bright peas, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic make for a comforting side that complements the freshness of the peas.
• Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce adds a lovely contrast to the savory flavors, making every bite interesting!
• Green Bean Casserole: This classic Thanksgiving side offers an additional vegetable option while providing creamy textures and crispy toppings that everyone loves.

With these serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving dinner will not only be delicious but visually stunning too! Enjoy cooking this festive dish—it’s sure to become a favorite at your holiday gatherings!

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, ensuring you have more time to enjoy the festivities with family and friends.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the peas into an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious side dish:

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

Yes, fresh peas can be used! Just cook them briefly until tender before adding them to the dish.

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

You can substitute the turkey strips with your favorite plant-based protein or omit them altogether for a delightful vegetarian side!

Can I add other vegetables to Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other seasonal veggies like carrots or green beans for added flavor and nutrition.

Is there a way to spice up Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

You could add a pinch of chili flakes or your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra kick!

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is not just a side dish; it’s a heartwarming addition that brings together flavors of sweetness and savory goodness. I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe as much as I do! Gather your loved ones around the table and share this festive treat with them. Happy cooking!