Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a delightful and colorful addition to your Thanksgiving feast, look no further than these Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips). This recipe is one of my favorites because it combines the sweetness of pears with the savory crunch of turkey strips, all wrapped up in the freshness of peas. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive family gatherings. Trust me, this dish will be a hit at your table!

The light, lemony Dijon mustard flavor brings everything together beautifully, adding a festive touch that everyone will appreciate. Plus, since it uses frozen peas and simple ingredients, you can have this dish ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for when you’re short on time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the sweet pears and crunchy turkey strips; it’s a side dish everyone can enjoy!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep ingredients ahead of time to save even more time on the big day.
• Deliciously Versatile: The flavors are so good that you might find yourself making this dish year-round!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our wholesome ingredients! This recipe calls for simple staples that create a beautiful medley of flavors. 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 Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is how flexible it is! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu instead of turkey strips for a different twist.
• Add nuts: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch and healthy fats.
• Change up the fruit: Apples or dried cranberries can replace pears for a new flavor profile.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne can add a delightful kick if you’re feeling adventurous.

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. Placing them in a bowl with lemon juice helps prevent browning while adding a lovely citrus flavor. Set this aside as you get ready to cook.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add your diced turkey strips and cook until they turn golden brown. This step is crucial as it gives the turkey great texture and flavor. Once they are done, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet, add your sliced shallots. Cook them for about a minute until they soften up; this releases their natural sweetness. Stir in the Dijon mustard at this stage—this adds depth to our dish!

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Now it’s time to stir in those vibrant green peas along with your diced pears. Mix everything together for about five minutes or until the peas are warmed through. The combination of these ingredients is simply heavenly!

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat and gently fold in half of your crispy turkey strips along with chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper. This adds freshness and color to our dish!

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your beautiful peas mixture into a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest for that extra zing!

And there you have it—your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) ready to impress! Enjoy every bite!

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

Creating the perfect Thanksgiving Peas is all about mastering a few key techniques that will elevate your dish and impress your guests!

• Choose ripe pears: Opt for pears that are slightly soft to the touch. They add a delightful sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the turkey and peas.

• Don’t crowd the pan: When cooking the turkey strips, make sure they are in a single layer. This ensures they brown evenly and become delightfully crispy, enhancing the overall texture of the dish.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary. Adding these can bring out new flavors, making your dish even more festive and aromatic.

• Use fresh parsley: Fresh herbs add brightness to any dish. Just before serving, tossing in freshly chopped parsley not only enhances flavor but also adds a pop of color.

• Make it ahead: You can prepare this dish up to a day in advance and reheat it just before serving. This helps develop the flavors even more and makes your Thanksgiving prep less stressful!

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

Presenting your Thanksgiving Peas in an appealing manner can make it a centerpiece on your dinner table! Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious side dish.

Garnishes

• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top not only looks beautiful but also enhances the citrus notes in the dish.

• Pomegranate seeds: For a splash of color and a burst of flavor, add pomegranate seeds. They provide a delightful crunch and sweetness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of Thanksgiving Peas, creating a balanced plate.

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting contrast to the crispness of peas and turkey strips, making them an essential choice for your holiday spread.

• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds add a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with your peas, while also bringing additional color to your meal.

• Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce can brighten up each bite, adding an extra layer of flavor that ties all traditional Thanksgiving dishes together beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Thanksgiving Peas will be an unforgettable part of your holiday feast! Enjoy every moment spent around the table with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas recipe is not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep! You can make it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on the big day.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer the peas to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about Thanksgiving Peas!

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas can be used! Just blanch them briefly before adding them to the skillet to ensure they cook evenly with the other ingredients.

What pairs well with Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

These peas pair beautifully with roasted turkey, stuffing, or any traditional Thanksgiving sides. They add a lovely pop of color and flavor to your table!

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

Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. It tastes just as delicious when reheated.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Certainly! You can replace turkey strips with sautéed mushrooms or tempeh for a hearty vegetarian version that still offers great texture.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is truly a delightful addition to your holiday spread. Its combination of sweetness from the pears and savory turkey strips creates a memorable flavor profile that everyone will love. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do, and that it brings warmth and joy to your Thanksgiving table. Happy cooking!