If you’re looking for a delightful side dish that will impress your guests and make your Thanksgiving dinner feel extra special, you’ve come to the right place! My Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a family favorite that combines the sweetness of pears with savory turkey strips and fresh peas. This dish is not only easy to whip up but also brings a festive flair to your holiday table. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight meal or a big family gathering, this recipe fits perfectly into any occasion.

The best part? It’s so simple to make! You can have these beautiful, vibrant peas ready in just half an hour. Plus, they are packed with flavor thanks to the zesty lemon and Dijon mustard dressing. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will become a staple at your Thanksgiving feast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for those busy holiday schedules.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of sweet and savory flavors.
Make-ahead option: You can prepare some components in advance, making your day feel less hectic.
Colorful presentation: The bright green peas and golden turkey strips create a visually appealing addition to your table.
Deliciously versatile: Enjoy this dish beyond Thanksgiving as a side for any meal!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients! This recipe uses simple and wholesome items that are probably already in your kitchen or easy to find at the store. You’ll love how fresh and flavorful they come together.

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 get creative based on what you have on hand or what flavors you enjoy.

Swap the protein: If turkey isn’t your thing, try using chicken strips or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Add more veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Change the fruit: Substitute pears with apples or even dried cranberries for a different twist!
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like things spicy.

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. This will enhance its sweetness when combined with the lemon juice. Mixing it with lemon juice prevents browning while adding a refreshing zing!

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey strips to cook until they are golden brown. This step is crucial because browning adds depth of flavor. Use a slotted spoon to remove them onto a paper towel-lined plate; this helps absorb excess fat while keeping them crispy.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet, without washing it out, add your sliced shallots. Cooking them for about one minute until softened brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with everything else in this dish. Stir in the Dijon mustard next; this adds that lovely tang!

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Now it’s time for our colorful stars—the frozen peas and diced pears! Stir them into the pan and let everything mingle together for about five minutes until warmed through. This step ensures that all those wonderful flavors blend beautifully.

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Once heated through, turn off the heat! Gently stir in half of your crunchy turkey strips along with chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper. The parsley adds freshness while balancing out all those rich flavors.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer everything into a large serving bowl. Top off with remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest—this adds such an appealing touch! Your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) are now ready to shine on your table!

Enjoy sharing this delightful recipe with friends and family; I can’t wait for you all to experience how delicious it really is!

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

To ensure your Thanksgiving Peas are not only delicious but also memorable, here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish!

Choose ripe pears: Selecting perfectly ripe pears adds a delightful sweetness that balances the savory notes of the turkey and shallots.
Cook the turkey strips until crispy: Browning the turkey strips well enhances their flavor and texture, making every bite more satisfying.
Don’t rush the shallots: Allowing the shallots to soften properly before adding other ingredients ensures they develop a lovely sweetness that enriches the overall taste.
Season gradually: Taste as you go! Adding black pepper incrementally allows you to control the seasoning and achieve just the right amount of flavor.
Serve immediately for freshness: This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking when all ingredients are fresh and vibrant. If you need to prepare ahead, keep components separate until serving.

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

Presenting your Thanksgiving Peas beautifully can impress your guests and make your meal feel extra special. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful side dish.

Garnishes

Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of additional parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
Lemon zest: A little extra lemon zest can brighten up the dish, providing a refreshing aroma that complements the peas and pears.

Side Dishes

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory elements in this dish, creating a balanced plate.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic provide a comforting contrast to the bright flavors of the peas and pears.
Green Bean Almondine: The crisp-tender green beans topped with toasted almonds offer a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the peas while adding visual appeal.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette can add a refreshing element to your meal, making it feel light yet satisfying.

Now you’re all set to create a stunning Thanksgiving spread! Enjoy making this recipe and sharing it with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it a fantastic addition to your holiday planning! You can easily prepare it ahead of time or store leftovers for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover peas to an airtight container.
Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
Place in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion.
Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot.
If the dish appears dry, add a splash of water or broth while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) that might help you out!

Can I substitute turkey strips in Thanksgiving Peas?

Absolutely! You can use chicken strips or even a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a different protein option.

What makes Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) special?

This dish uniquely combines the sweetness of pears with savory turkey strips, creating a delightful balance of flavors that elevate your Thanksgiving table.

How do I ensure my peas stay bright green in Thanksgiving Peas?

To maintain their vibrant color, avoid overcooking the peas. Just warm them through during preparation for that beautiful green hue!

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is not only simple to make but also brings a festive flair to your holiday feast. I hope you find joy in preparing this delightful side dish and share it with loved ones at your dinner table. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!