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, then you’ve found it! My Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a crowd-pleaser that combines the sweetness of pears with savory turkey strips and vibrant green peas. This recipe has become a staple on my holiday table, not just for its flavor but also for its ease of preparation. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish brings a festive touch to any occasion.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something special without spending all day in the kitchen. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve your loved ones something delicious without the fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have this vibrant side dish ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of peas, pears, and turkey.
• Make-Ahead Potential: Prepare the turkey strips ahead of time and store them in the fridge for an even quicker assembly on Thanksgiving Day!
• Versatile Ingredients: The combination of peas and pears makes this dish both nutritious and delicious; it pairs beautifully with many main dishes.
• Festive Presentation: The bright colors will add a cheerful pop to your table, making it look as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Gather these items before you start cooking, and you’ll be on your way to creating a Thanksgiving masterpiece!

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 things about Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is how flexible it can be. Feel free to get creative with substitutions or additions based on what you have on hand!

• Swap the protein: Use chicken strips instead of turkey for another delicious option.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the fruit: Substitute apples or dried cranberries if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Make it cheesy: Sprinkle some grated cheese on top just before serving for an extra layer of richness.

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. This step is important because tossing the pear pieces with lemon juice prevents them from browning while adding a hint of citrusy brightness.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced turkey strips. Cook until they turn golden brown, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This browning adds flavor! After cooking, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pan onto a paper towel-lined plate. Drain off some fat but leave about three tablespoons in the skillet; we want that flavor!

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet with leftover fat, add your sliced shallots. Cook them for about one minute until they soften up. This step is crucial because shallots bring out their natural sweetness when sautéed.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Now it’s time for those beautiful peas! Toss them along with the prepared pears into the skillet with shallots. Stir everything together and let it cook for about five minutes until everything is warmed through.

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat! Gently fold in half of your crispy turkey strips along with chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Combining these ingredients adds texture and freshness to your dish.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your beautiful mixture into a large serving bowl. Top it off with remaining turkey strips and garnish with fresh lemon zest for an extra pop of flavor. Now it’s ready to grace your Thanksgiving table! Enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking a delicious side dish can be a breeze with the right tips! Here are some insights to ensure your Thanksgiving Peas turn out perfectly.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and ripe pears will enhance the flavors of the dish, making it more vibrant and appealing to your guests.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the turkey strips, give them enough space in the skillet. This allows them to brown nicely, leading to a crispier texture.
• Taste as you go: Adjusting the seasoning throughout the cooking process helps achieve that perfect balance of flavors. A little extra lemon juice or black pepper can make all the difference!
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing each bite.
• Customize with herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of flavor. They can complement the sweetness of the pears and richness of the turkey strips.

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

Presenting your Thanksgiving Peas in an inviting way can make this side dish even more delightful. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top adds a lovely pop of color while intensifying the citrusy flavor.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans can bring a nice crunch and additional depth to the dish.
• Microgreens: For a touch of elegance, garnish with microgreens. They not only look beautiful but also add a fresh taste.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of this dish. Plus, their vibrant orange color is visually appealing on any plate!
• Green Bean Almondine: Tender green beans sautéed with almonds provide a crunchy contrast that complements the soft peas and pears perfectly.
• Herb-Infused Quinoa: This nutty grain brings in protein and fiber while absorbing flavors from herbs you might use in your Thanksgiving Peas, creating a cohesive meal experience.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce adds brightness and acidity that cuts through richer foods, making it an ideal companion for both turkey and this pea dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) will shine on your dinner table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) dish is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time, making your holiday cooking a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• This dish can last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• For best results, keep the turkey strips separate until ready to reheat.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze, let the dish cool completely first.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.
• Add a splash of water if it seems dry when reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips):

Can I make Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) without shallots?

Yes! While shallots add a lovely flavor, you can substitute them with onions or omit them entirely if you prefer a simpler taste.

How do I enhance the flavor of Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch. A pinch of red pepper flakes could also add some warmth!

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

These peas pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or any main dish like turkey or chicken!

Are Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well and can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for busy holiday preparations.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is truly a delightful addition to your holiday table. Its combination of flavors brings warmth and comfort while being easy to prepare ahead of time. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—it’s bound to be a hit! Happy cooking, and may your Thanksgiving be filled with joy and delicious food!