Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

If you’re looking for a delightful and easy side dish to impress your family this Thanksgiving, you’ve come to the right place! These Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) have become a cherished staple in my kitchen. The combination of sweet pears, tender turkey, and vibrant peas creates a festive dish that’s sure to brighten up any holiday table. Plus, it’s quick enough for busy weeknights or perfect for family gatherings!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up something truly special that everyone will enjoy. Trust me; once you taste these peas, they’ll become one of your go-to side dishes for all occasions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute preparations.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of sweet and savory makes this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike!
• Versatile Side Dish: While delicious for Thanksgiving, these peas are great for any meal throughout the year.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients, this dish is a great way to enjoy veggies without sacrificing flavor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare some elements in advance, making your holiday cooking less stressful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips):

For the Dish

• ½ pound turkey strips (cut into small dice)
• 3 medium shallots (halved and thinly sliced – about 1 cup)
• 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
• Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or even chickpeas if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
• Change the fruit: Substitute the pear with diced apples or even dried cranberries for a different twist.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for some heat!

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 cubes. Then place them in a small bowl and drizzle with lemon juice. This not only prevents browning but also adds a lovely zing to the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey strips and cook them until they turn golden brown. This step gives your turkey those delicious crispy edges we all love! Once done, remove them from the pan with a slotted spoon onto a paper towel-lined plate. Keep some of that rendered fat in the pan; it adds flavor!

Step 3: Add the Shallots

Next, toss those sliced shallots into the skillet. Cook them until they soften up—about a minute should do! Stir in the Dijon mustard at this point; it will infuse everything with its tangy goodness.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Now it’s time to bring in those beautiful peas and freshly diced pears! Stir everything together in the pan for about five minutes until the peas are warmed through. This step ensures all those lovely flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Once everything is heated through, turn off the heat. Gently fold in half of your crispy turkey strips along with that fresh parsley and freshly ground black pepper. This adds freshness and balances out all those rich flavors!

Step 6: Serve

Finally, transfer your colorful mixture into a large serving bowl. Top it off with the remaining turkey strips and sprinkle lemon zest on top as garnish. And voilà—you’re ready to serve this delightful dish at your Thanksgiving table!

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

Making Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and turkey strips is a breeze, but these tips will ensure your dish is nothing short of spectacular!

• Choose ripe pears: Selecting a ripe pear adds natural sweetness and enhances the flavor profile of the dish. A perfectly ripe pear will be juicy and tender, making every bite delightful.

• Don’t rush the turkey: Cooking the turkey strips until golden brown not only improves their texture but also brings out a rich flavor. This extra step ensures that they are crispy and delicious, adding depth to your side dish.

• Fresh herbs matter: Using fresh parsley instead of dried elevates the dish with vibrant color and a fresh taste. Fresh herbs have a more intense flavor that complements the peas and pears beautifully.

• Zest before juicing: Always zest the lemon before juicing it; this allows you to capture all that aromatic oil from the peel, enhancing your dish with a bright citrus note.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: The amount of black pepper can vary based on personal preference. Taste your dish as you go, and feel free to adjust it for your ideal level of seasoning.

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

Presenting this side dish beautifully can enhance your Thanksgiving table setting. Here are some ideas for serving this delightful blend of flavors!

Garnishes

• Chopped chives: Adding a sprinkle of chopped chives on top brings an oniony freshness that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the pears.
• Toasted walnuts: A handful of toasted walnuts adds crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the peas’ tenderness.
• Lemon wedges: Offering lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add an extra burst of citrus if they desire.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the savory notes in the peas dish, creating a well-rounded meal.
• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almonds provide a crunchy texture while keeping things light and fresh.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives adds nutrition and balances out the flavors on your plate.
• Herb Stuffing: Classic herb stuffing brings warmth and comfort to your Thanksgiving spread, making it a perfect partner for these peas.

Enjoy crafting this beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving feast!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious side dish without the last-minute rush. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later use, ensuring you have more time to spend with family during the holiday festivities.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When ready to eat, check for freshness before reheating.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer the peas and turkey mixture into a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerator leftovers, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
• For frozen leftovers, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or use the microwave on low power until warmed throughout.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just follow the recipe instructions, allow it to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat before serving!

What can I substitute for turkey strips in Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using chicken strips or even plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh. They work wonderfully with the other flavors in this dish.

How do I ensure my peas stay bright green when making Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

To keep your peas vibrant, avoid overcooking them. Add them towards the end of cooking, just heating them through without losing their bright color.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is truly a standout side that brings together festive flavors in a simple yet elegant way. I hope you give this recipe a try and find joy in preparing it as much as I do. It’s not just about enjoying good food; it’s about creating memories around your dinner table. Wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with laughter and love!