Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a festive side dish that your family will rave about, then look no further than these Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips). This delightful recipe combines sweet pears with crispy turkey strips and vibrant green peas, all brought together with a zesty lemon-Dijon flavor. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. I’ve made this dish for years, and it never fails to brighten up the table during the holidays!

What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it at Thanksgiving dinner or as a quick side for a weeknight meal, these Thanksgiving Peas will surely become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic holiday preparations.
• Family-Friendly: With its balanced flavors and colorful presentation, even the pickiest eaters will love it!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes on the day of your gathering.
• Deliciously Unique: The combination of sweet pears with savory turkey strips elevates your typical peas into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful side dish! You likely have many of these items on hand, making this recipe both accessible and budget-friendly.

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to adapt it based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken strips or even plant-based alternatives like tofu for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a richer texture.
• Change the fruit: Substitute apples or even dried cranberries if pears aren’t available.

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing the pear. Placing it in a small bowl with lemon juice helps prevent browning while adding a bright flavor. This step is crucial because the acidity from the lemon balances out the sweetness of the pear.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the turkey strips. Cook them until golden brown—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Leaving some fat in the pan adds flavor to our next steps!

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In that same skillet, toss in your sliced shallots. Sauté them for about one minute until they soften; this brings out their natural sweetness. Stirring in Dijon mustard adds an exciting kick that complements everything beautifully!

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Next, add both your frozen peas and those prepped pears to the skillet. Stir everything together for about five minutes until everything is warmed through. The heat will bring out all those lovely flavors!

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat now, then gently fold in half of your crispy turkey strips along with chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your beautiful mixture to a large serving bowl. Top it off with the remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest for an inviting presentation. Voila! Your Thanksgiving Peas are ready to impress at any gathering!

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

Creating a delightful dish that impresses your guests is easier than you think! Here are some tips to elevate your Thanksgiving Peas.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh peas can enhance the overall flavor of the dish. If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute frozen peas with fresh ones when they are in season for a brighter taste.
• Adjust the mustard: If you enjoy a tangier flavor, feel free to add more Dijon mustard, but start with small increments. This will ensure the mustard doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
• Experiment with herbs: While parsley adds a lovely freshness, consider trying other herbs like thyme or tarragon for a unique twist. They can complement the sweetness of the pears beautifully.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking turkey strips and shallots, give them enough space to brown properly. This ensures they get that golden crispy texture which adds depth to your dish.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving can help meld the flavors together. It also lets everything cool slightly for a more enjoyable eating experience.

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

Presenting your Thanksgiving Peas beautifully can make all the difference on your festive table! Here are some ideas to make this dish shine.

Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: Adding lemon wedges not only enhances presentation but also allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their servings for an extra zing.
• Chopped nuts: A sprinkle of toasted walnuts or pecans adds crunch and an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with both pears and peas.
• Microgreens: These delicate greens provide a pop of color and sophistication, making your dish look professional and inviting.

Side Dishes

• Roasted root vegetables: The natural sweetness of carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized makes for a perfect pairing with your savory peas.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and feta provides a light contrast to the richness of your main dish while adding protein.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic bring comfort to your Thanksgiving meal, making every bite feel like home.
• Balsamic Brussels sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze add a tangy element that complements the sweetness of pears in your peas.

With these tips and ideas, you’re set to create an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy cooking and happy feasting!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) dish 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 loved ones on the big day.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the peas to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool down completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this recipe, you’re in the right place!

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

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh peas, just blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding them to the dish. This will help maintain their vibrant color and crunch.

How can I customize my Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices! Thyme or rosemary can add a delightful twist. You could also substitute the pears with apples for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the turkey strips and add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also incorporate plant-based protein options if desired.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth to your table. I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe as much as I do. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holidays. Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with joy, laughter, and delicious food!

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