Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. There’s something about the cozy atmosphere, the comforting flavors, and the sense of togetherness that makes it truly special. One dish that’s become a staple on our Thanksgiving table is the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta. It’s a wonderful blend of sweet, savory, and a touch of crispy texture that just hits the spot.
I remember the first time I made this recipe a few years ago. I was searching for a unique side dish that would complement the traditional Thanksgiving spread, and this one caught my eye. As soon as the aromas started wafting through the kitchen, my family came running, eager to try it. And let me tell you, it was an instant hit! The combination of tender peas, juicy pear, and the salty crunch of pancetta was simply irresistible.
Table of Contents
Why This Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
What makes this Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta recipe so special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is to sauté the pancetta until it’s crispy, then toss in the fresh pear and peas, allowing them to mingle and create a harmonious dish. This recipe yields 6 servings, so it’s perfect for a crowd or if you’re looking to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delectable Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta, you’ll need:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
- 2 ripe pears, diced
- 4 oz diced pancetta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Instructions
Preparing Your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
This recipe takes 25 minutes total – 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a large skillet or sauté pan to bring this dish together. Let’s get started!
1- Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the 6 ounces of diced pancetta and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
2- Once the pancetta is crispy, add the 1 diced ripe pear and the 1 pound of fresh or frozen peas to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and the pear is slightly softened.
3- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon of honey. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the butter is melted and the flavors have combined.
4- Season the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta with 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper and 1/8 teaspoon of salt, or to taste. The peas should be tender and the pear should be slightly caramelized.
5- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, ensuring the flavors are well-balanced.
6- Serve the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta hot, garnished with any extra crispy pancetta pieces, if desired. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta turn out perfectly, here are a few pro tips:
- Use a ripe, juicy pear for maximum flavor. Bartlett or Bosc varieties work well.
- If using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them first – they’ll cook up nicely in the skillet.
- Be careful not to overcook the peas, as you want them to retain a slightly crunchy texture.
- Adjust the honey to your taste preference, adding more for a sweeter dish or less for a more savory balance.
Serving and Storing Your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
Perfect Pairings for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
This Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta dish is the perfect accompaniment to your holiday feast. Serve it alongside your roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce for a truly delicious and well-rounded meal. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of crisp white wine or a cozy autumn-inspired cocktail. This recipe makes 6 servings, with each portion being 1 cup.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the peas in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the entire dish up to 2 days in advance. Simply store the cooked peas in the refrigerator, then reheat and serve on the day of your Thanksgiving gathering.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
Creative Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up, try substituting the pear with apple for a more autumnal flavor profile. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
For a more festive touch, consider stirring in a tablespoon of cranberry sauce or a splash of apple cider during the final cooking step.
Making Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Diet-Friendly
To make this dish gluten-free, simply omit the pancetta and use a plant-based or turkey-based bacon instead. For a vegan or vegetarian version, replace the pancetta with crispy tofu or tempeh, and use olive oil instead of butter.
If you’re following a low-carb diet, you can reduce the amount of honey or eliminate it altogether, and serve the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta over a bed of roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute the pear for a different fruit?
A: Absolutely! You can try using apple, mango, or even persimmon in place of the pear. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different fruits may have varying textures and release more or less liquid.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 6 servings, with each serving being 1 cup.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can! This Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta dish can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Simply store the cooked peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then reheat and serve on the day of your Thanksgiving gathering.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Leftover Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the peas in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is a delightful and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for your holiday table. The combination of fresh peas, juicy pears, and crispy pancetta creates a wonderfully sweet and savory flavor profile that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
– 2 cups fresh or frozen peas
– 2 ripe pears, diced
– 4 oz diced pancetta
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. 1. In a large skillet, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove pancetta from the skillet and set aside.
2. 2. In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. 3. Add the fresh or frozen peas to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, until tender.
4. 4. Stir in the diced pears and balsamic vinegar. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the pears are slightly softened.
5. 5. Remove from heat and stir in the reserved crispy pancetta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6. Serve the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta warm, as a delightful side dish for your holiday feast.
Notes
This dish can be made in advance and reheated before serving. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the pancetta.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Vegetarian & Vegan Mains
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta recipe is a true delight that’s sure to become a new holiday tradition in your household. With its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crispy flavors, it’s a dish that will impress your guests and have them coming back for seconds. So don’t hesitate to give it a try this Thanksgiving – your taste buds will thank you!
