If you’re looking for a delightful dish to brighten up your Thanksgiving table, you’ve come to the right place! My Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to whip up. This recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the savory crunch of turkey strips, all brought together with a hint of lemony Dijon mustard. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something special yet simple.

What makes this dish truly special is how it adds a festive touch to your holiday spread while still being wholesome and satisfying. The colorful peas and juicy pears create a beautiful contrast that’s sure to impress your guests—plus, it tastes fantastic!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time.
Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory flavors of this dish.
Make-ahead convenience: You can prep the ingredients in advance, making serving on Thanksgiving day a breeze!
Delicious flavor: The combination of crispy turkey strips, sweet pears, and fresh herbs creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry! Let’s gather everything we need for these delightful Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips).

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! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Swap the protein: If you’re looking for something different, try using chicken strips or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.
Experiment with spices: A pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder can add depth to the flavors if you’re feeling adventurous.
Dress it up: Consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or toasted nuts for added richness and texture.

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Start by peeling, slicing, and dicing your pear. This will give it great texture in our dish. Toss it in a bowl with lemon juice to keep it fresh and prevent browning. Setting it aside now will allow those sweet flavors to meld beautifully later!

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat up a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add those turkey strips—you’re looking for them to turn golden brown. This step is crucial because that lovely browning adds so much flavor! Use a slotted spoon to transfer them onto a paper towel-lined plate once cooked. Remember to leave some rendered fat in the pan; it’ll help us sauté our shallots perfectly.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

Now it’s time to add the sliced shallots into that flavorful fat left in the skillet. Cook them for about a minute until they’re softened. Stirring in the Dijon mustard at this point enhances their sweetness while adding depth—a little bit goes a long way!

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Stir in your frozen peas and diced pears next. This is where the magic happens! Cook everything together for about five minutes until heated through. The vibrant green of peas mixed with sweet pears makes this dish so inviting!

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat before stirring half of those crispy turkey strips back into the mix along with freshly chopped parsley and black pepper. This step brings together all those wonderful flavors while keeping everything fresh.

Step 6: Serve

Finally, transfer your beautiful Thanksgiving Peas into a large serving bowl. Top it off with the remaining turkey strips and finish with some lemon zest as a garnish—this adds that final touch of brightness!

And there you have it—a stunning side dish perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy family dinner! Enjoy every bite!

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

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving Peas is all about the little details that enhance flavor and presentation. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish shines at the dinner table!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and ripe pears can elevate the flavor of your dish, making it taste homemade and vibrant. Fresh produce often brings out the best in any recipe!
Adjust the mustard: If you’re not a fan of Dijon mustard’s sharpness, feel free to reduce the amount or switch to a milder mustard. This helps tailor the dish to your taste preferences while still keeping that savory touch.
Add a pinch of sugar: If your peas taste a bit too green or earthy, a small pinch of sugar can enhance their sweetness and balance out flavors. Just a tiny bit makes a big difference!
Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully. This step ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness.
Make ahead: You can prepare the turkey strips and shallots in advance. Just reheat them when ready to serve! This saves you time on the big day, allowing you to focus on other parts of your feast.

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

Presenting your Thanksgiving Peas beautifully will make this delightful dish even more inviting on your holiday table. Here are some ideas for serving it up just right.

Garnishes

Lemon zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest adds brightness and color, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Chopped herbs: Additional parsley or even fresh thyme can offer an aromatic touch that complements the dish’s savory notes.

Side Dishes

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic provide a comforting contrast to the crispness of your peas, making for a classic pairing.
Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized brings sweetness and texture, complementing the sweet-and-savory profile of your peas.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness from honey enhances these tender carrots, harmonizing beautifully with both the turkey strips and pears in your main dish.
Stuffing with Mushrooms: A savory stuffing filled with earthy mushrooms adds depth to your meal while providing hearty satisfaction that rounds out your Thanksgiving table perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) will be an unforgettable highlight of this year’s feast! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) dish is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your Thanksgiving festivities without the last-minute rush. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat this delicious side dish.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the peas to cool completely before storing.
Transfer them to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), you’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help.

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

Absolutely! Fresh peas can be used instead of frozen. Just blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding them to the skillet.

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

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the turkey strips and replace them with plant-based protein options like chickpeas or tofu. The flavors will still shine!

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

These peas pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a hearty grain salad. They add a lovely festive touch to any meal!

Can I prepare Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) a day in advance?

Yes! This dish can be prepared a day ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before serving so it’s warm and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this recipe for Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) as delightful as I do! It’s truly a special addition to any holiday table, combining savory turkey with sweet pears and bright peas. Enjoy preparing this dish, share it with loved ones, and create wonderful memories around your dinner table. Happy cooking!