If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly captures the cozy warmth and vibrant flavors of fall, look no further than Thanksgiving Peas. This delightful side balances the salty crispness of pancetta with sweet, juicy pears and bright lemon notes, making it a star on any holiday table. It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of textures and tastes that complement your Thanksgiving feast like no other.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses a handful of simple but essential ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each element plays a key role, from the savory pancetta adding depth to the fresh peas bringing that lovely pop of green, while pears introduce subtle sweetness.

½ pound pancetta, cut into small dice: Adds a rich, salty crunch that elevates the dish.
3 medium shallots, halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced): Provide a mild onion sweetness that softens beautifully when cooked.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Offers a gentle tang that brightens the overall flavor.
16 ounces frozen peas: The star of Thanksgiving Peas, bringing vibrant color and a sweet, fresh flavor.
1 pear: Adds natural sweetness and a juicy bite to balance savory elements.
1 lemon, zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest): Gives the dish a fresh, zesty lift.
½ cup roughly chopped parsley: Offers herbal brightness and a lovely green finish.
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and complexity.

How to Make Thanksgiving Peas

Step 1: Prepare the Pear

Begin by peeling and slicing your pear, then dice it into small pieces. Toss these in a small bowl with the fresh lemon juice. This step adds brightness and prevents the pear from browning, ensuring your peas end up with both sweetness and a subtle tang that harmonizes the entire dish.

Step 2: Cook the Pancetta

Place a large skillet over medium heat and add your diced pancetta. Cook it until it turns a beautiful golden brown and releases its flavorful fat. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pancetta onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave around 3 tablespoons of the rendered fat in the pan—this will add a luscious depth of flavor to the peas.

Step 3: Sauté the Shallots and Add Mustard

Into the warm fat, add the thinly sliced shallots and cook them for about one minute until they soften and become fragrant. Stir in the teaspoon of Dijon mustard, which will infuse the dish with a gentle tang that lifts the sweetness of the peas and pears beautifully.

Step 4: Heat the Peas and Pears

Now add your frozen peas along with the lemon-soaked pear pieces to the skillet. Stir continuously for about five minutes, allowing the peas to warm through and the pears to meld with the gentle tang from the lemon, creating a stunning balance of sweet and savory.

Step 5: Finish with Pancetta, Parsley, and Pepper

Turn off the heat and fold in half of the cooked pancetta along with the fresh parsley and freshly ground black pepper. This adds fresh herbal notes and seasoning that ties everything perfectly together.

How to Serve Thanksgiving Peas

Garnishes

To really make your Thanksgiving Peas shine, sprinkle the remaining crispy pancetta on top and finish with a dusting of fresh lemon zest. This adds a pop of color and a bright, citrusy aroma that invites everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with traditional Thanksgiving staples like roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. Its fresh, slightly sweet profile adds a refreshing contrast that complements richer, heavier flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a creative twist, serve Thanksgiving Peas in small individual ramekins or vibrant bowls for a charming, personalized touch at your holiday table. You can also layer them over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside roasted root vegetables for a colorful, gourmet presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Thanksgiving Peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually meld together overnight, making it even tastier the next day!

Freezing

While fresh peas are best enjoyed quickly, you can freeze this dish if needed. Place cooled Thanksgiving Peas in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to keep the peas tender and the pancetta crisp. Adding a splash of lemon juice or a small knob of butter while reheating can help refresh the flavors and maintain that delightful texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen for Thanksgiving Peas?

Absolutely! Fresh peas will add a lovely sweetness and a bit more bite. Just blanch them briefly before adding to the skillet to keep their bright green color and tender texture.

What can I substitute for pancetta if I don’t eat pork?

Try smoked turkey bacon or even crispy mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly alternative. These will add a similar depth of flavor and texture without the pork.

Is Dijon mustard necessary in the recipe?

Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the pears and peas, but if you don’t have it on hand, a small squeeze of yellow mustard or a pinch of ground mustard seed can work in a pinch.

Can I prepare Thanksgiving Peas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare most of the dish up to the final garnishing step. Just warm it gently before serving and add the last of the pancetta and lemon zest for freshness.

What makes Thanksgiving Peas different from regular peas side dishes?

This recipe combines savory pancetta, sweet pears, and zesty lemon with fresh herbs, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures you won’t find in a basic peas side. It’s a festive upgrade that truly elevates your holiday meal.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas bring a unique and irresistible touch to your holiday table that your family and friends will adore. They are bursting with savory, sweet, and bright flavors that celebrate the season’s best. Give this recipe a try, and watch it quickly become one of your favorite Thanksgiving traditions!