Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that will impress your family and friends this Thanksgiving, look no further than my Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)! This dish has become a favorite in my home, combining sweet pears, crispy turkey strips, and vibrant green peas. The subtle lemony Dijon mustard flavor brings everything together beautifully. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also adds a festive touch to your holiday table. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this scrumptious side dish!
• Kid-friendly: The combination of sweet pears and savory turkey strips makes it appealing for all ages.
• Versatile: Perfect for Thanksgiving, but also great for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
• Healthy choice: Packed with peas and fresh ingredients, this dish is a nutritious addition to any meal.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare some components in advance, making your holiday cooking stress-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) are made with simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Let’s gather what we need to get started!

• 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 this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of turkey strips, you can use chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the fruit: Try using diced apples or even dried cranberries for a different flavor profile.
• Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor even more.

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by prepping your pear. Peel it, slice it into small pieces, and then dice it. This step not only gives the dish sweetness but also adds a lovely texture. To keep the pear from browning, toss it in a small bowl with lemon juice while you continue with the rest of the recipe.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add your diced turkey strips to the pan. Cook them until they are golden brown and deliciously crispy. Using a slotted spoon, remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat—this keeps our dish light and flavorful!

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet where you cooked the turkey, add sliced shallots. Sauté them for about a minute until they soften; this brings out their natural sweetness. Then stir in the Dijon mustard! This ingredient is key as it ties all of our flavors together.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Now it’s time to mix in those vibrant green peas along with your diced pears. Stir everything together for about five minutes until the peas are warmed through. The sweetness from the pears will blend beautifully with the other ingredients.

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Once your peas are warmed through, turn off the heat! Gently fold in half of your crispy turkey strips along with chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper. This step adds freshness to our dish while keeping that turkey flavor front and center.

Step 6: Serve

Finally, transfer everything into a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining turkey strips for that extra crunch! Garnish with lemon zest for an inviting finish that looks as good as it tastes.

And there you have it—your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) are ready to shine on your holiday table! Enjoy every bite!

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

Creating a perfect Thanksgiving dish is all about the little details, and these tips will help you elevate your Thanksgiving Peas to a whole new level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shallots and ripe pears. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also bring vibrant colors to your dish.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Don’t be afraid to taste as you go! Every ingredient has its own unique flavor profile, so feel free to add more black pepper or Dijon mustard to suit your palate.

• Keep the peas bright green: To maintain the vibrant color of the peas, avoid overcooking them. Stir them in just until they’re warmed through—this keeps them tender yet crisp.

• Experiment with herbs: While parsley adds a nice touch, consider mixing in other herbs like thyme or mint for an additional flavor dimension that complements the sweetness of pears.

• Make it ahead of time: If you’re short on time on Thanksgiving day, you can prepare the turkey strips and shallots in advance. Just reheat them briefly before adding the peas and serving!

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

Presentation is key when it comes to festive meals! Here are some delightful ideas for serving this delicious side dish that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top just before serving adds a burst of color and enhances that lovely citrus flavor in the dish.

• Chopped nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts can provide a crunchy texture contrast that elevates the overall dining experience.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These sweet potatoes caramelize beautifully in the oven and offer a delicious sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory elements of your peas.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic create a comforting classic that balances well with the lighter side of this dish.

• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds bring both crunch and freshness to your table, complementing the flavors in the peas wonderfully.

• Stuffing with Herbs: A herbed stuffing can round out your meal beautifully, providing hearty texture and earthy flavors that harmonize perfectly with your Thanksgiving Peas.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re set for a memorable Thanksgiving feast! Enjoy every bite, knowing you’ve created something truly special for your loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious side dish without the last-minute rush in the kitchen. Plus, it stores well, making it a great option to prepare ahead of your festive gathering.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftover peas to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, consume within 1 month.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful dish!

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

Yes, you can use fresh peas! Just make sure to blanch them in boiling water for a couple of minutes before adding them to the pan. This will help retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

How can I modify Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) for my dietary needs?

You can easily adjust this recipe by substituting turkey strips with plant-based options or cooked chicken, depending on your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables too!

Can I add other ingredients to Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

Absolutely! You could enhance this dish by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch or even incorporating other seasonal vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.

What should I serve with Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

This side dish pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, stuffing, or any hearty main course. It adds a sweet and savory balance that complements many traditional Thanksgiving flavors.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope that you give this Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe a try! It’s not only simple but also brings a lovely burst of flavor and color to your holiday table. Enjoy making it as much as I do, and may it become a cherished part of your Thanksgiving traditions. Happy cooking!