Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish to elevate your Thanksgiving table, you’ve come to the right place! This recipe for Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is one of my most cherished creations. It combines the sweetness of pears with the savory crunch of turkey strips, all brought together by a zesty lemon-Dijon dressing. This dish not only looks festive but also tastes amazing, making it perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up! You can have this flavorful side ready in just 30 minutes. Your loved ones will be coming back for seconds—trust me!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious dish without stress.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of sweet pears and savory turkey makes it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving dinner or any other occasion where you want to impress your guests.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the turkey strips and shallots in advance, saving time on the big day.
• Nutritious Goodness: Packed with peas, this dish is not just tasty but also nutritious, making it a wholesome addition to your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home. This recipe is all about freshness and flavor!

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 parts of cooking is playing around with flavors! Here are a few fun variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or even diced tofu instead of turkey for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
• Change up the fruit: Swap pears for diced apples or even dried cranberries for a hint of tartness.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chili powder if you like a little kick.

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing your pear into small pieces. Toss it gently with lemon juice in a small bowl. This step not only prevents browning but also adds a fresh zing to every bite.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add your turkey strips to the pan and let them cook until they’re beautifully golden brown. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Remember to drain off some rendered fat, leaving about three tablespoons in the pan—it adds flavor!

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In that same skillet, toss in your sliced shallots. Sauté them for about one minute until they soften up beautifully. Then stir in the Dijon mustard; this step infuses richness into your dish.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add those vibrant frozen peas and your prepared pears into the skillet. Stir it all together for about five minutes until everything is warmed through—this helps develop those wonderful flavors.

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat now; it’s almost ready! Gently fold in half of your crispy turkey strips, along with parsley and freshly ground black pepper. This step adds freshness while keeping everything balanced.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your beautiful mixture into a large serving bowl. Top it off with the remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest for that pop of color. Now you’re ready to impress everyone at dinner!

Enjoy making these Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)! I can’t wait for you to share this delicious recipe with your friends and family!

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

Making Thanksgiving Peas can be a breeze with a few helpful tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh pears and high-quality turkey strips enhance the flavor of your dish, making it more vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t overcook the peas: Keep the peas bright and slightly crisp for the best texture. Overcooking can lead to a mushy result, losing that delightful bite.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more black pepper or even a pinch of salt if needed. This helps balance the sweetness of the pears with savory notes from the turkey and shallots.

• Experiment with herbs: While parsley adds freshness, consider adding thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

• Make ahead of time: You can prepare the turkey strips and shallots in advance. Just reheat them before mixing in the peas and pears for a quick assembly on Thanksgiving day.

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

Presenting your Thanksgiving Peas beautifully will surely impress your guests! Here are some ideas for serving this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest on top not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s citrusy flavor.
• Chopped nuts: Consider adding toasted walnuts or pecans for an added crunch that complements both texture and taste.
• Cranberry sauce: A small dollop on the side can offer a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the pears, creating a lovely balance.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These crispy little gems bring earthy flavors and complement your Thanksgiving Peas perfectly.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside your dish while balancing out lighter elements like peas and pears.
• Stuffing with herbs: A savory stuffing adds heartiness to your meal, making it feel festive and complete.
• Green bean almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add color, crunch, and a fresh taste that pairs wonderfully with your peas.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to create a memorable holiday experience! Enjoy sharing this delicious side dish with family and friends at your Thanksgiving table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week, making your holiday preparations a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the peas to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Place cooled peas in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Remove as much air as possible from the bag before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen peas in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring often until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

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

Absolutely! Fresh peas can be used, but you’ll need to blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding them to the dish. This will help retain their vibrant color and sweetness.

What can I serve alongside my Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

These peas pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, stuffing, or any main protein you choose to serve for Thanksgiving. Their sweet and savory flavor complements a variety of dishes!

How long do Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat them gently before serving!

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

Yes! You can replace turkey strips with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty vegan version that retains all those wonderful flavors.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is more than just a side dish; it’s a delightful combination of flavors that brings warmth and festivity to your table. I hope you enjoy preparing this easy yet impressive recipe as much as I do! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holidays. Give it a try, and let your kitchen fill with joy this Thanksgiving!