As my family and I gathered around the table during the holidays, a delightful aroma wafted through the kitchen, signaling the arrival of my favorite festive dish: Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta. The combination of sweet, juicy pears, tender peas, and crispy pancetta—with just a hint of tangy Dijon mustard—creates a warm embrace of flavors that complements any holiday feast. What I love the most about this vibrant side dish is its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal, making it a go-to for gatherings. Whether you're celebrating Thanksgiving or simply looking to impress guests, this recipe brings elegance without all the fuss. Are you ready to elevate your holiday table with this delicious twist?

Why Choose This Festive Dish?

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Guests will rave about the balance of sweet pears and salty pancetta, making this dish a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this side dish in no time, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Elegant Presentation: Its vibrant colors and textures make for an eye-catching addition to your festive table, elevating your feast instantly.
Versatile Flavor: Whether alongside turkey or roasted meats, this dish pairs beautifully with various holiday mains, enhancing every bite.
Nutritious Choice: Packed with nutrients, this dish combines several vegetables and healthy fats, making it a guilt-free indulgence for your celebration.
Feel free to try variations like adding some toasted nuts for crunch or opting for Sweet Potatoes Cinnamon on the side to add another layer of flavor!

Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Ingredients

For the Dish

Pancetta – Adds a wonderful salty crunch; bacon makes a great substitute if needed.
Shallots – Provide a mild sweetness; you can swap them with regular onions in a pinch.
Dijon Mustard – Offers a tangy depth that enhances the flavor; any mustard works, but Dijon is best.
Frozen Peas – Contribute sweetness, and are quick to use; fresh peas can substitute but may need longer cooking time.
Pear – Infuses sweetness and softness; apples work well as an alternative for a different flavor twist.
Lemon Juice and Zest – Brighten the dish and tie flavors together; feel free to use lime as a substitute.
Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness and a pop of color; other herbs like basil or cilantro can be used instead.
Black Pepper – Enhances overall taste; adjust to your liking or use white pepper for a milder touch.

Optional Garnish

Lemon Zest – A final touch that brings brightness to the dish.
Extra Pancetta – For topping and an extra crunchy finish; save some to sprinkle right before serving.

This Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is not just a side—it’s a conversation starter that brings warmth and joy to any holiday gathering!

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear
Begin by peeling the pear, then slice it in half and remove the core. Dice the pear into small, bite-sized pieces and toss them with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. Set the pear aside as you prepare the other ingredients for your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta.

Step 2: Cook the Pancetta
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the pancetta. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pancetta turns golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove the pancetta with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel to drain excess fat, leaving about 3 tablespoons of the rendered fat in the pan for added flavor.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots
In the same skillet with the pancetta fat, add the chopped shallots and sauté for 1–2 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant. Stir in the Dijon mustard, cooking for an additional minute to release its tangy aroma. This will create a delicious base for your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta.

Step 4: Add Peas and Pears
Next, stir in the frozen peas and the diced pear. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the peas are heated through and the pears become tender but still hold their shape. You’ll see the peas glistening and the pears starting to soften nicely.

Step 5: Finish Dish
Remove the skillet from heat and gently fold in half of the crispy pancetta and the chopped fresh parsley, mixing until everything is well combined. Transfer the vibrant mixture to a serving bowl, topping it with the remaining pancetta for an appealing presentation. Garnish with some lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor, then serve your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta immediately.

Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful dish and make it your own with just a few tasty adjustments!

Crispy Bacon: Swap pancetta for bacon for an easily accessible option that's just as delicious.
Bacon brings its own unique flavor to this dish while still contributing that coveted crunch.
Sweet Apples: Replace pears with apples for a firmer texture and a slight tartness.
The apples can add a delightful crunch and a hint of tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Toasted Nuts: Incorporate walnuts or pecans for a nutty twist that adds texture.
Just toast them lightly before adding to bring out their natural oils and create a lovely crunch within the dish.
Seasonal Veggies: Toss in seasonal vegetables like green beans or asparagus for an extra color splash.
This variation not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds layers of flavor and texture that elevate the overall dish.
Garlic Infusion: Add minced garlic while sautéing shallots for an aromatic kick.
The garlic will bring in a flavorful zing that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the pears and the saltiness of the pancetta.
Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added fragrance.
These herbs can turn your dish into a fragrant masterpiece that infuses every bite with that lovely earthy flavor.
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
Just a sprinkle will add warmth without overpowering the overall sweet-savory balance, creating an intriguing flavor layer.

For more delightful holiday side dishes, try pairing with Sweet Potatoes Cinnamon or consider a festive touch with Zucchini Feta Basil to enhance your holiday spread!

What to Serve With Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta

Imagine a beautiful holiday spread where every dish complements one another—this delightful side is the perfect starting point for a festive meal.

Herb-Roasted Turkey: The savory, juicy turkey adds a classic flavor that balances beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of the peas and pancetta.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and indulgent, these mashed potatoes provide a comforting texture that soaks up all the delicious flavors on your plate.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their sweetness mirrors the pears in your dish, while a hint of caramelization adds depth, creating a harmonious medley of flavors.
Cranberry Sauce: This tart and tangy condiment cuts through the richness of the pancetta and enhances every bite, giving a refreshing zing to your holiday feast.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and slightly bitter, Brussels sprouts contrast well with the sweetness of the peas, inviting a delightful balance on your taste buds.
Sparkling Cider: A bubbly, non-alcoholic drink that complements the festive atmosphere while refreshing the palate, making it a delightful pairing for any holiday meal.
Chocolate Tart: For a sweet finish, this rich dessert rounds off the meal while providing a comforting warmth, adding to the joyous celebration of flavors.

Storage Tips for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the dish from drying out.

Freezer: If you plan to freeze, put the dish in a freezer-safe container, where it will last for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the peas and pears, which can become mushy.

Serving Suggestion: For a refreshing touch when serving leftovers, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon to revive the flavors in your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta.

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy holiday gatherings! You can prepare the pears and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning up to 24 hours ahead of time. Additionally, you can cook the pancetta and sauté the shallots in advance, storing each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pancetta and shallots in a skillet, add the peas and pears, and warm through for just a few minutes. This way, you'll maintain the crispiness of the pancetta and the freshness of the peas, ensuring everyone enjoys a dish that's just as delicious as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta

Crispy Pancetta: Ensure your pancetta is cooked until crispy for that delightful crunch in every bite of your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta.
Stirring Technique: Stir the shallots and peas occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, enhancing the dish's texture.
Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on the heat while sautéing; too high may burn the shallots or pancetta, compromising the flavors.
Fresh vs. Frozen Peas: Frozen peas work best for quick prep; if using fresh peas, be prepared for slightly longer cooking time for tenderness.
Flavor Balance: Adjust Dijon mustard to taste; start with a small amount, as it can be potent. You can always add more for that tanginess!

Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Recipe FAQs

What kind of pears work best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this dish, I recommend using ripe, juicy pears such as Bartlett or Bosc. Look for pears that are slightly fragrant and firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure. Avoid pears with dark spots or bruises for the best flavor and texture.

How should I store leftovers?
Very good question! Store any leftovers of your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing it to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze the dish for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, place your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it's sealed tightly. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave, taking care not to overcook the peas and pears.

What can I do if my pancetta isn’t crispy enough?
If you find your pancetta isn't reaching that perfect crispy texture, try increasing the heat slightly and let it cook a minute longer while stirring occasionally. This can help draw out more fat and achieve that desired crunch. Just remember, keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

Are there any dietary restrictions I should be aware of?
If you're cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider options like using turkey bacon in place of pancetta for a lower-fat alternative. Additionally, anyone with mustard allergies can substitute with mayonnaise or omit the mustard altogether while still keeping the dish delicious.