Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that will impress your family this Thanksgiving, look no further than my Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips). This recipe is not only easy to whip up but also brings a burst of flavor to your holiday table. The combination of sweet pears, savory turkey strips, and vibrant peas creates a perfect harmony that everyone will love. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve on busy weeknights or at festive gatherings!

What makes this dish truly special is the way it balances flavors. The subtle lemony Dijon mustard adds a refreshing twist that elevates the humble pea into a star side dish. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll want to make it a staple for every occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy holiday preparations.
• Flavorful and Festive: The mix of sweet pears and savory turkey strips gives a unique taste that’s sure to impress your guests.
• Family-Friendly: With its colorful ingredients and delicious flavor, even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this side!
• Make-Ahead Potential: You can prep the ingredients in advance, saving you time on the big day.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients, this dish is a great way to add veggies to your Thanksgiving spread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Main 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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Use chicken instead of turkey: Swap in diced chicken breast for a different protein option.
• Add other veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers for added color and crunch.
• Try different fruits: Substitute with diced apples or even fresh cranberries for a seasonal twist.
• Make it vegan: Replace turkey with chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version that still packs a punch.

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing your pear. This step is important because you’ll want the pear pieces to be small enough to blend well with the peas. Toss them in lemon juice right away to prevent browning while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced turkey strips and cook them until golden brown. This adds flavor and texture! Once cooked, remove them from the pan using a slotted spoon—this helps drain excess fat while keeping those crispy bits.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet with some rendered fat left behind, add the sliced shallots. Sauté them for about a minute until they soften—this brings out their natural sweetness! Afterward, stir in the Dijon mustard for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Now it’s time to introduce your peas and previously prepared pears into the pan. Stir everything together for about 5 minutes until heated through. The goal here is to ensure all those flavors meld perfectly!

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. Mixing these ingredients at this stage allows their flavors to shine without losing their texture.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your beautiful mixture into a large serving bowl. Top with remaining turkey strips as garnish and sprinkle some lemon zest on top for that final touch of brightness! Your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) are now ready to delight everyone at your table!

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

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving Peas is all about attention to detail and a few handy tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish shines at the dinner table!

• Choose ripe pears: Opt for pears that are slightly soft to the touch. Ripe pears will add a sweet, juicy contrast to the savory turkey and peas, enhancing the overall flavor.

• Don’t skip the lemon zest: Adding lemon zest brightens up the dish and adds a fresh aroma. It helps to balance out the richness of the turkey and provides a lovely pop of flavor.

• Cook turkey strips until crispy: For the best texture, ensure your turkey strips are cooked until they are golden brown and crispy. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender peas and juicy pears.

• Season to taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust your seasoning! Taste as you go, especially after adding the black pepper. This allows you to customize the flavor profile to suit your preferences perfectly.

• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare this dish a few hours in advance and reheat it gently before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on Thanksgiving day!

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

Presenting your Thanksgiving Peas beautifully can make them an eye-catching addition to your feast. Consider these ideas for serving that will impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy an extra squeeze of citrus over their peas, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Pomegranate seeds: For a festive touch, scatter pomegranate seeds over the top. Their vibrant color and tartness will elevate your dish visually and taste-wise.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of this dish, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are always a hit during Thanksgiving. Their rich texture complements the peas nicely without overpowering them.
• Green Bean Almondine: Bright green beans sautéed with almonds add crunch and color, making them an ideal match for your peas while keeping everything fresh.
• Stuffing or Dressing: A herbed stuffing made with bread cubes, celery, and herbs brings traditional flavors that blend seamlessly with your Thanksgiving spread.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to wow your family and friends with your delicious Thanksgiving Peas! Enjoy every moment of sharing this special meal together!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) dish is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it save time on the big day, but it also ensures you have a delicious side ready to go, making your holiday stress-free.

Storing Leftovers

• Item: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Item: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Item: Label the container with the date for reference.

Freezing

• Item: To freeze, let the mixture cool fully, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Item: Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Item: Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Item: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Item: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
• Item: Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

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

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

Yes, you can use fresh peas! Simply blanch them briefly before adding them to the skillet with the shallots and mustard. Fresh peas will provide a delightful crunch!

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

To make this dish vegetarian, replace the turkey strips with crispy tofu or tempeh. You can add a bit of smoked paprika for that savory flavor without meat.

Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! While pears work wonderfully here, feel free to experiment with diced apples or even peaches for a different twist. Just remember to adjust the lemon juice accordingly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to add these delightful Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) to your holiday table! This recipe is not only simple but brings together flavors that everyone will love. Enjoy making it and sharing with your loved ones—happy cooking!