Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for an easy yet delicious side dish that can brighten up any meal, look no further than these Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)! This colorful dish combines the sweetness of pears and the savory crunch of crispy turkey strips with tender peas. It’s perfect not just for Thanksgiving but also for busy weeknights or any family gathering. Trust me, this recipe has become a beloved staple in my kitchen, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

The best part? It’s super simple to whip up and can be made in just about 30 minutes. So whether you’re preparing a feast or just want something tasty alongside your dinner, these peas are sure to impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet taste of pears mixed with peas, and they’ll enjoy helping you prepare it!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the ingredients ahead of time, so you’re ready to go on the day of your gathering.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of lemony Dijon mustard and fresh parsley adds a delightful twist that transforms simple ingredients into a standout dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple and wholesome components that are likely already in your pantry. You’ll find everything you need right here:

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 great things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up according to what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences:

• Swap the protein: If turkey isn’t your thing, try using chicken strips or even plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce if you like a little heat.
• Go seasonal: Swap out pears for diced apples or cranberries during different seasons for a fun flavor twist.

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing the pear into small pieces. Toss them in a bowl with lemon juice to keep them from browning. This step not only adds flavor but also brightness to the dish!

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced turkey strips and cook them until they turn golden brown. This is where we build flavor! Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate, allowing excess fat to drain off.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet, add the sliced shallots. Sauté them for about one minute until they soften. Stirring in the Dijon mustard at this point adds depth of flavor that complements both the peas and turkey perfectly.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add in your frozen peas and previously prepared pears. Stir everything together for about five minutes until heated through. The warmth will help meld all those lovely flavors.

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat and fold in half of your crispy turkey strips along with chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper. This finishing touch brightens up our dish while adding freshness.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your beautifully cooked peas into a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining turkey strips and garnish with some lemon zest for that extra pop! Enjoy this delightful side dish as part of your Thanksgiving feast or any special occasion meal!

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

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving peas dish can be a delightful experience! Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines on the holiday table.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and ripe pears can elevate the flavor profile of this dish, providing a more vibrant taste that frozen or canned alternatives might lack.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to seasoning. Taste as you go, especially with black pepper and lemon juice, to find the perfect balance that suits your palate.
• Cook turkey strips in batches: If you have a larger quantity of turkey strips, consider cooking them in batches. This ensures they cook evenly and become wonderfully crispy without overcrowding the pan.
• Experiment with herbs: While parsley adds a lovely freshness, feel free to mix in other herbs like thyme or sage to enhance the seasonal flavors of your dish.
• Make ahead for convenience: You can prepare the turkey strips and sautéed shallots in advance. Just reheat them gently before mixing with peas and pears to save time on Thanksgiving day!

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

Presentation is key when it comes to serving this delicious dish. Here are some ideas on how to make it visually appealing and inviting for your guests.

Garnishes

• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest not only enhances flavor but also adds a beautiful pop of color.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans can give an extra crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweet pears perfectly.
• Microgreens: A handful of microgreens as a final touch can add freshness and an elegant look to your serving bowl.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts: These caramelized greens bring a delightful bitterness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the peas and pears while adding a lovely color contrast.
• Cranberry sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce offers a refreshing contrast to the savory elements of this dish, balancing out flavors wonderfully.
• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that everyone loves, providing a nice texture alongside the peas.
• Stuffing: A herbed stuffing mixed with veggies adds depth to your meal while capturing those classic Thanksgiving flavors everyone anticipates.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish for your Thanksgiving celebration, knowing it’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

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

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and reheat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

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

Can I make Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

What can I substitute for turkey strips in Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

You can replace turkey strips with chicken or plant-based alternatives like tofu or tempeh if you’re looking for a different flavor or dietary option.

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

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the turkey strips and add extra protein like chickpeas or another plant-based protein source.

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

Yes, fresh peas will work well too! Just be sure to cook them slightly longer than frozen peas until they’re tender.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is truly a special side dish that brings a lovely combination of flavors to your holiday table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! It’s simple enough for any day but festive enough for special occasions. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; your family will thank you!