Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a delightful side dish that captures the essence of festive gatherings. This easy recipe showcases frozen peas paired with crispy turkey strips and sweet pears, all enhanced by a zesty lemon and Dijon mustard dressing. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any special occasion, this dish brings a fresh and savory touch to your table that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from prep to serving, you can whip this dish up even on the busiest Thanksgiving day.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet pears, savory turkey strips, and tangy Dijon mustard creates a unique flavor profile that elevates traditional peas.
• Versatile Side Dish: Not only great for Thanksgiving, but this dish also complements holiday meals, family dinners, or casual weeknight gatherings.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the turkey and fiber from the peas and pears, it’s a wholesome choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant green peas paired with golden turkey strips make for an appealing addition to your dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for even cooking of turkey strips while providing enough room to add other ingredients without overcrowding.
• Slotted spoon: This tool is perfect for removing cooked turkey strips without excess fat, ensuring a healthier final dish.

Ingredients

For the Turkey Strips

• ½ pound turkey strips (cut into small dice)

For the Vegetables

• 3 medium shallots (halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced))
• 16 ounces frozen peas

For Additional Flavor

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 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)

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

Step 1: Prep the Pear

• Peel the pear, slice it in half, then small dice it.
• Place it in a small bowl and stir with the lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the turkey strips to the skillet and cook until they turn golden brown.
• Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked turkey strips to a paper towel-lined plate.
• Drain off some rendered fat from the skillet but leave about 3 tablespoons behind.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

• In the same skillet, add the sliced shallots.
• Cook for about one minute until they soften, then stir in Dijon mustard.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

• To the skillet, add both frozen peas and diced pears.
• Stir everything together for about five minutes until peas are warmed through.

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

• Turn off the heat.
• Stir in half of your cooked turkey strips along with chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 6: Serve

• Transfer your pea mixture to a large serving bowl.
• Top with remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest before serving.

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering! Enjoy this delicious blend of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) make a delightful addition to your holiday meal. Their combination of sweet and savory flavors pairs well with many dishes, enhancing your Thanksgiving feast.

Pair with Roasted Turkey

• Serve alongside your main turkey dish for a harmonious flavor experience that complements the meal’s overall theme.

Add to a Salad

• Incorporate Thanksgiving Peas into a fresh green salad. The peas and pears add texture and a burst of flavor that brightens up the greens.

Top with Crumbled Cheese

• Sprinkle some feta or goat cheese on top before serving for an extra layer of creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the peas and turkey.

Use as a Filling

• Stuff Thanksgiving Peas into puff pastry shells for an elegant appetizer. This transforms the side dish into a bite-sized treat that’s perfect for guests.

Serve in Individual Portions

• For a festive touch, serve Thanksgiving Peas in small ramekins. This adds visual appeal and makes it easy for guests to take their servings.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Enhance the presentation by garnishing with additional parsley or other fresh herbs to add color and freshness to your serving dish.

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

To elevate your Thanksgiving Peas, consider these helpful tips. They can enhance flavor, texture, and presentation.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh shallots and ripe pears when possible for the best taste and texture.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; feel free to add more black pepper or even a pinch of salt if needed.
• Add crunch: Consider incorporating toasted nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Make ahead: Prepare the turkey strips in advance. Reheat them just before adding them back into the dish for convenience.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding a bit of garlic powder or thyme for additional depth of flavor.
• Serve warm: Ensure that your Thanksgiving Peas are served warm to maintain their vibrant colors and flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

Thanksgiving Peas pair wonderfully with various side dishes, creating a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort food vibes that everyone loves.
2. Cranberry Sauce – A sweet-tart cranberry sauce adds freshness and balances the richness of other dishes on the table.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring out earthy flavors that complement the sweetness of the pears in the peas.
4. Stuffing – A savory stuffing filled with herbs offers hearty satisfaction alongside the lighter textures of Thanksgiving Peas.
5. Sweet Potato Casserole – Sweet potato casserole topped with marshmallows provides a delightful contrast to savory dishes.
6. Green Bean Almondine – Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds create a crunchy side that complements both flavor-wise and texturally.
7. Cornbread – Moist cornbread brings warmth and sweetness, making it an ideal pairing for your holiday spread.
8. Butternut Squash Soup – A smooth butternut squash soup served as an appetizer sets a cozy tone for your Thanksgiving meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make small errors when preparing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips). Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the lemon juice: Not adding lemon juice to the pears can lead to browning. Always toss diced pears with lemon juice right after cutting.
• Overcooking the turkey strips: Cooking turkey strips too long can dry them out. Aim for a golden brown finish and remove them from heat promptly.
• Not seasoning enough: Failing to add enough black pepper can result in bland flavors. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Ignoring the shallots: Overlooking the shallots can make your dish lack depth. Sauté them until softened before adding other ingredients for better flavor integration.
• Using frozen peas straight from the freezer: Adding frozen peas directly without thawing may cool down your dish. Always warm them through in the skillet for even cooking.
• Skipping garnishes: Neglecting to add lemon zest or parsley at the end means missing out on fresh flavors. Always finish with garnishes for a vibrant presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months but may change texture slightly upon thawing.

Reheating Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover lightly, and microwave on medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips).

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas can be used, but they will need a longer cooking time compared to frozen peas.

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

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch or substitute chicken for turkey if preferred.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can omit the turkey strips and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms instead.

How do I ensure my pears stay fresh?

Tossing diced pears with lemon juice immediately after cutting will help prevent browning.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a versatile side dish that combines sweet and savory elements seamlessly. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also allows room for customization based on your preferences. Whether you choose to add nuts or switch up herbs, this dish is sure to impress your guests at any gathering!