Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a festive side dish that adds a delightful pop of color and flavor to your Thanksgiving table, look no further than Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips). This recipe has quickly become one of my favorites, not just for the holidays but also for busy weeknights. The combination of sweet pears, savory turkey strips, and fresh peas creates an irresistible medley that’s both comforting and refreshing. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!

This dish is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting family gatherings or simply cooking dinner at home. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while keeping the flavors vibrant and exciting. Trust me; once you try these Thanksgiving Peas, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for last-minute preparations.
• Family-friendly: The sweet taste of pears paired with savory turkey is sure to please everyone at the table.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the ingredients ahead of time so you can relax and enjoy your holiday festivities.
• Colorful presentation: The bright green peas and golden turkey strips create a beautiful dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s everything you need to bring this tasty dish to life:

For the 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

One of the best things about Thanksgiving Peas is how adaptable it is! Here are a few ideas to customize this recipe to suit your taste:

• Swap the protein: If you prefer chicken or even plant-based alternatives, feel free to make substitutions that work for you!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Change up the fruit: Try using diced apples instead of pears for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you enjoy some spice!

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by prepping the pear. Peel it, slice it into small pieces, and then dice it. Place the diced pear in a small bowl and stir it with lemon juice. This not only keeps the pear from browning but also adds a lovely zesty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey strips and cook them until they turn golden brown. This step is crucial as it adds texture and depth to our dish. Once they’re cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pan onto a paper towel-lined plate. Drain off some fat from the skillet while leaving about three tablespoons behind—it will help flavor our vegetables.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In that same skillet, add the sliced shallots. Sauté them for about a minute until they soften. Stir in Dijon mustard at this point; it imparts a tangy flavor that elevates our peas wonderfully.

Step 4: Add Peas and Pears

Now it’s time to add those vibrant green peas along with your prepared pears into the pan. Stir everything together for about five minutes until the peas are warmed through. This step allows all those flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat next, then stir in half of your crispy turkey strips along with freshly chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper. This infusion adds freshness and color right before serving.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer those gorgeous Thanksgiving Peas into a large serving bowl. Top them with the remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest for an extra touch of brightness. Your holiday table is now ready for this scrumptious side!

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

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving Peas will be a breeze with these helpful tips!

• Choose fresh pears: Opt for ripe, but firm pears to ensure they hold their shape during cooking while adding a delightful sweetness to the dish.
• Cook turkey strips until crispy: Browning the turkey strips not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft peas and pears.
• Don’t skip the lemon zest: Zesting the lemon before juicing will release essential oils that provide an aromatic burst of flavor, elevating your dish’s overall taste.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of black pepper or Dijon mustard according to your preferences—this dish should be tailored to your family’s taste buds!
• Make ahead of time: You can prepare this dish a few hours in advance and gently reheat it just before serving. This allows flavors to meld and makes your Thanksgiving prep a little easier!

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

Presenting your Thanksgiving Peas in an inviting way can make all the difference at your holiday table. Use colorful serving dishes and consider layering this dish for visual appeal.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle on top adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Lemon wedges: Offering lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add an extra squeeze of brightness just before digging in.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the savory elements of the Thanksgiving Peas perfectly, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
• Green Bean Almondine: A classic side with sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds adds crunch and elegance, making for a delightful contrast in textures alongside your peas.
• Quinoa Salad with Cranberries: This nutritious salad brings a refreshing touch to your meal, with tart cranberries that echo the sweet notes of pears in your main dish.
• Cranberry Sauce: A simple yet festive cranberry sauce serves as a tangy counterpart that brightens up every bite, tying together all those delicious flavors on your table.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving dinner is sure to impress! Enjoy sharing this wonderful dish with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it, allowing you to save precious moments on the big day.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely.
• Portion the peas into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in a skillet or microwave until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

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

Yes, fresh peas can be used! Just blanch them briefly before adding them to the pan to ensure they cook evenly with the other ingredients.

How can I adjust the flavors in Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or swap out the Dijon mustard for a sweeter variety if you prefer.

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

Absolutely! Substitute the turkey strips with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein for a delightful vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a wonderfully vibrant addition to your holiday feast. With its delicious combination of flavors and textures, this dish not only enhances your meal but also brings joy to your guests. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try. Happy cooking!