As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of crispy pancetta wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to holiday gatherings filled with laughter and joy. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta—a festive side dish that effortlessly combines sweet, ripe pears with tender peas and the irresistible crunch of pancetta. The best part? This dish is not only easy to make but also destined to become a crowd-pleaser at your holiday table. With the bright notes of lemony Dijon mustard to elevate the flavors, you’ll find this delightful medley brings a touch of elegance and warmth to any meal. Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a side that pairs perfectly with your favorite roasted meats? Let's get cooking!

Why is this dish a holiday favorite?

Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze to make, requiring minimal ingredients and time.

Flavor Explosion: The contrast of sweet pears, crisp pancetta, and fresh peas creates a delightful taste profile that's hard to resist.

Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a showstopper that complements any festive gathering, making it perfect for Thanksgiving.

Versatile Pairing: This side dish is ideal alongside roasted meats or even a vibrant grain salad, like a classic Bake Pumpkin Tomato, enhancing your holiday spread.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in advance; it reheats beautifully, saving you time on the big day.

Elevate your holiday table with this easy-to-make, flavorful delight that everyone will adore!

Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Ingredients

For the Dish

Pancetta – Adds a salty, savory flavor; substitute with bacon if necessary.
Shallots – Provide a mild onion flavor to enhance the dish; use red onion for a sharper taste if desired.
Dijon Mustard – Offers a tangy element that brightens the dish; it's the best option for a flavor-packed experience.
Frozen Peas – Contributes sweetness and vibrant color; fresh peas can be used for a more refreshing taste and texture.
Pear – Adds a delightful sweetness; look for ripe pears, or substitute with apples if needed.
Lemon Juice and Zest – Brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity; lime juice can be used as an alternative.
Fresh Parsley – Provides freshness and color; can be replaced with fresh chives or basil for a twist.
Black Pepper – Enhances flavor; freshly ground pepper is recommended for the best aroma.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta

Step 1: Prep the Pear
Begin by peeling, slicing, and dicing your ripe pear into bite-sized pieces. To prevent browning, gently toss the diced pear with a splash of lemon juice. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients, ensuring the fresh pear remains vibrant and ready to complement the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta.

Step 2: Cook Pancetta
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add the diced pancetta. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pancetta turns golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving a few tablespoons of fat in the skillet for flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots
With the pancetta fat still in the skillet, add the diced shallots and sauté for about 1 minute, until they become fragrant and slightly softened. Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, allowing the mustard to meld with the shallots and create a flavorful base for your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta, which will elevate the dish’s taste.

Step 4: Add Peas and Pears
Next, toss in the frozen peas and diced pear to the skillet, mixing well with the shallot mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring gently, until the peas are warmed through and the pears soften slightly. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and harmony in your holiday side dish.

Step 5: Combine
Stir in half of the crispy pancetta and a handful of freshly chopped parsley into the skillet, seasoning with freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Gently fold everything together for another minute, ensuring the vibrant Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta are well combined, then transfer the mixture to a serving bowl.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, top your dish with the remaining pancetta and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of brightness. Serve immediately while warm, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta side dish will surely impress your guests and elevate your holiday feast!

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on the big day! You can slice and dice the pears up to 24 hours in advance, tossing them with lemon juice to prevent browning. The pancetta can be cooked and crisped ahead, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it's time to serve, simply reheat the pancetta in a skillet, add the shallots, followed by the peas and pears, cooking until warmed through. This way, you'll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making your holiday gatherings all the more joyful!

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta

• Perfect Pancetta: Ensure crispy pancetta: Cook until golden brown for the ideal texture and flavor in your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta.

• Freshness Matters: Use fresh ingredients: Opt for ripe pears and fresh peas for a vibrant dish that shines on your holiday table.

• Mustard Magic: Adjust mustard to taste: Experiment with the amount of Dijon mustard to achieve your preferred tanginess.

• Gentle Cooking: Avoid overcooking peas: They should be tender yet vibrant; keep an eye on them to retain their lovely green hue.

• Garnish Wisely: Elevate presentation: A sprinkle of lemon zest not only enhances flavor but also adds a touch of elegance to your dish.

Variations & Substitutions for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta

Feel free to experiment with these suggestions and make this delightful dish your own!

Bacon: Swap pancetta for crispy bacon for a familiar flavor that everyone loves. The smoky notes from the bacon give a hearty charm to this festive side.
Red Onion: Replace shallots with red onion for a sharper, bolder taste. The vibrant color will not only enhance flavor but also add visual appeal to your dish.
Honey Mustard: Use honey mustard instead of Dijon for a touch of sweetness. This can create a delightful contrast with the savory pancetta, making the dish even more irresistible.
Fresh Peas: Opt for fresh peas instead of frozen ones if available. They provide a sweeter and crunchier texture, perfect for elevating your Thanksgiving table.
Apple: Substitute pears with apples for an alternative sweetness. It offers a lovely crunch and pairs beautifully with pancetta for a different seasonal essence.
Chopped Nuts: Add some toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch. The nutty flavor complements the sweetness of the pears beautifully, adding textural variety to each bite.
Lime Juice: Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a zesty twist. The different citrus note can brighten the dish in a unique way, making it refreshing.
Herb Variations: Substitute parsley with fresh chives or basil for a new herbal flavor. Each brings its own character, allowing you to customize based on your preferences.

As you play with these variations, consider pairing your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta alongside other favorites like Sweet Potatoes Cinnamon or Garlic Butter Steak to create a stunning and satisfying holiday feast!

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta

The perfect accompaniment to your festive feast, these delightful flavors will elevate any spread.

Roasted Turkey: Juicy, herb-seasoned turkey pairs beautifully with the sweetness of pears, creating a harmonious holiday plate.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness complements the dish, while the vibrant color adds to your festive table.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture balances the crispy pancetta, making each bite a decadent delight.
Savory Stuffing: A fragrant stuffing enhances the meal's flavors, harmonizing with the pan-fried goodness of the peas.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberries cuts through the richness of the pancetta, brightening your holiday dish.
Sparkling Cider: A bubbly drink brings a festive touch, elevating the dining experience with its effervescent charm.

These pairings turn your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta into a memorable holiday feast!

Storage Tips for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta

Fridge: Store any leftover Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: If you need to freeze the dish, it can be stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking to preserve the vibrant color and texture of the peas and pears.

Serving Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to serve this dish fresh. If making ahead, consider final assembly just before serving.

Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe pears for this dish?
Absolutely! When selecting pears, look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure when you squeeze them. This indicates ripeness. Avoid pears with dark spots or bruises; instead, opt for those with smooth skins. A ripe pear will bring a lovely sweetness to the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
For any leftover Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge when you're ready to enjoy!

Can I freeze this dish? How?
Yes, you can freeze Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta! To do this, let the dish cool completely after cooking. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, sealing it tightly to avoid freezer burn. Label your container with the date and expect it to last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What if my peas become mushy during cooking?
Very! If your peas turn mushy, it's often because they've been overcooked. Lightly cook them with the pears, keeping the heat at medium and stirring gently. Aim for just about 5 minutes until they've warmed through but still retain a vibrant green color. If peas do become mushy, consider adding some crunchy toppings like toasted nuts to add texture!

Are there any dietary concerns with this recipe, such as allergies?
Of course! This dish contains pancetta, which is pork-based, so it may not be suitable for those with pork allergies or dietary restrictions. Additionally, keep in mind that some individuals may be sensitive to certain seasonings like mustard. A good alternative is to substitute pancetta with turkey bacon or use a mustard alternative such as a vinaigrette dressing for a different flavor. Always check for labels if you're accommodating allergies!