The scent of sizzling pancetta wafted through the kitchen as I prepared for our Thanksgiving feast, signaling the beginning of a cherished family tradition. This year, I’m excited to share my recipe for Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear—an exquisite side dish that beautifully combines fresh pears’ sweetness with the savory crunch of crispy pancetta. Not only is this dish a vibrant addition to your holiday table, but its quick prep time makes it easy to whip up, leaving you with more moments to savor with your loved ones. Tossed in a light, zesty Dijon mustard dressing, these Thanksgiving Peas bring a delightful balance of flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Curious about how to make this festive favorite that’s sure to dazzle your guests? Let’s dive in!

Why are Thanksgiving Peas a Must-Try?

Joyful Flavor Combo: This recipe perfectly balances savory pancetta and sweet pears, creating a dish that pleases every palate.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can focus on other Thanksgiving dishes, making it ideal for the busy holiday season.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: The vibrant colors and delightful aroma are bound to impress your guests, ensuring this dish earns a spot at your festive table.

Versatile Side: Pair it with turkey, ham, or even serve alongside roasted vegetables for a delightful addition to everyday meals.

Freshness Matters: Using frozen peas means you can enjoy peak flavor with minimal fuss, much like in my popular Thanksgiving Turkey Herb recipe!

Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients

For the Dish

Pancetta – Provides a rich, salty flavor and crispy texture; if unavailable, bacon can be used as a substitute.
Shallots – Add sweetness and depth to the dish; onions can be used if shallots are not available.
Dijon Mustard – Gives a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the pears and peas; no direct substitutions recommended, but a mild mustard could work.
Frozen Peas – Acts as the main ingredient, offering freshness and color; fresh peas can be replaced, though cooking time may need adjusting.
Pear – Adds sweetness and texture; diced apples can be used as a substitute for similar sweetness.
Lemon – Provides acidity and brightness; lime can be an alternative for a zesty twist.
Parsley – Fresh herbs enhance the dish’s flavor and presentation; chives can replace parsley for a milder taste.
Black Pepper – Adds seasoning to taste, giving your Thanksgiving peas that extra zing.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Thanksgiving Peas

Step 1: Prep the Pear
Begin by peeling the pear and slicing it into thin pieces before dicing them into small cubes. To keep the pear’s vibrant color, toss the diced fruit with fresh lemon juice in a bowl. Set this aside while you prepare the other ingredients to allow the lemon to brighten up the flavor of your Thanksgiving Peas.

Step 2: Cook the Pancetta
In a large skillet over medium heat, add diced pancetta and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is crispy and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pancetta from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, reserving a tablespoon of the rendered fat for the next step.

Step 3: Sauté Shallots
With the reserved pancetta fat still in the skillet, add the sliced shallots and sauté for about 1 minute, allowing them to soften and become fragrant. Stir in Dijon mustard, mixing well to combine the flavors, and cook for an additional minute until everything is well incorporated and the shallots are tender.

Step 4: Add Peas and Pears
Next, stir in the frozen peas and the prepared diced pears into the skillet. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are heated through and the pears are tender but not mushy. The vibrant green color of the peas will really shine in your Thanksgiving Peas at this stage.

Step 5: Final Touches
Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and fold in half of the crispy pancetta, freshly chopped parsley, and a dash of black pepper for seasoning. Transfer your colorful Thanksgiving Peas to a serving bowl, topping it off with the remaining pancetta and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an added touch of freshness before serving.

What to Serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear

Creating a memorable Thanksgiving meal goes beyond the centerpiece; it’s about harmonizing flavors and textures for a delightful dining experience.

Roasted Turkey: Juicy turkey provides a savory contrast to the sweetness of the peas and pears, making it a classic pairing for your holiday table.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: The caramelized sweetness of honey-glazed carrots echoes the sweetness of the pears, balancing the richness of the pancetta beautifully. A splash of citrus would bring it all together!
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add a comforting element to your feast, with their buttery texture providing the perfect vehicle for enjoying every bite of Thanksgiving Peas.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce cuts through the savory flavors of the dish, adding a refreshing zing to every mouthful.
Balsamic Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic reduction make for a wonderfully earthy and slightly sweet complement to the vibrant flavors of your peas.
Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp white wine enhances the bright flavors of the Dijon and lemon in your Thanksgiving Peas, making for a refreshing sip alongside the meal.
Pumpkin Pie: A traditional dessert that wraps up your feast with its spiced sweetness. The creamy filling and flaky crust create a delightful contrast to the savory side dishes.
Herbed Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for scooping up peas and pancetta, creating a satisfying bite that pairs well with any holiday feast!

Thanksgiving Peas Variations & Substitutions

Explore these delightful twists to make the recipe truly your own!

Vegetarian Option:
Omit the pancetta and sauté in olive oil for a lighter dish. Adding toasted nuts will bring a satisfying crunch without sacrificing flavor.
Diverse Fruits:
Swap pears with diced apples for a crisp bite, or use seasonal fruits like cranberries to introduce tartness in every mouthful.
Different Mustard:
Replace Dijon with whole-grain mustard for a heartier flavor that enhances the dish’s texture while adding a nutty complexity.
Fresh Herbs:
If parsley is hard to find, consider using chives or thyme for a milder herbal note that pairs beautifully with the peas and pancetta.
Fresh Peas:
For a fresher taste, substitute frozen peas with fresh, but be sure to adjust the cook time to maintain that delightful crispness.
Zesty Twist:
Elevate the flavor by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat that complements the sweetness of the pears beautifully.
Balsamic Glaze Drizzle:
Finish the dish with a light drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet acidity that harmonizes with the rich pancetta.
Upgrade Crunch:
Include crispy fried onions as a topping for an extra layer of texture that makes your Thanksgiving Peas even more irresistible.

These variations will ensure your Thanksgiving Peas not only delight but also spark joy as you create new family favorites. Want more ideas? Don’t forget to check out my Thanksgiving Turkey Herb recipe for a perfectly paired main course!

Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Peas

Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh or high-quality frozen peas for the best flavor. Avoid older peas, which can taste bland and mushy.
Perfect Pancetta: Cook pancetta slowly over medium heat to achieve crispiness without burning. Too high heat can lead to uneven cooking and bitterness.
Don’t Overcook: Pay attention when adding peas and pears, as they only need a short time to heat through. Overcooking can result in mushy ingredients.
Layer Flavors: Feel free to add additional seasonings like garlic or red pepper flakes for a flavor boost in your Thanksgiving Peas.
Serving Tip: Serve your peas immediately after cooking for the best texture. Reheating can make them lose their vibrant color and crunch.
Storing Leftovers: Store any remaining Thanksgiving Peas in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for up to 4-5 days!

Make Ahead Options

These Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free holiday feast! You can prepare the diced pears and toss them with lemon juice up to 24 hours in advance to prevent browning. Additionally, you can cook the pancetta and sauté the shallots ahead of time, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the pancetta and shallots in a skillet, add the peas and pears, and warm through for about 5 minutes. This method ensures that your Thanksgiving Peas remain just as delicious, saving you precious time on the big day!

How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Peas

Fridge: Store leftover Thanksgiving Peas in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to retain the texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Thanksgiving Peas in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to serve, reheat the thawed peas in a skillet with a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor and to restore that delightful crunch.

Freshness Tip: To keep them tasting vibrant, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after reheating to brighten the flavors.

Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pear Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pears for my Thanksgiving Peas?
Absolutely! Look for pears that are slightly firm yet yield to gentle pressure when squeezed. A ripe pear should have a little give but not be too soft or mushy. Aim for varieties like Bartlett or Anjou that lend sweetness and will hold up well in cooking.

How should I store leftover Thanksgiving Peas?
Leftover Thanksgiving Peas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. When reheating, I recommend using the stovetop with a drizzle of olive oil to revive their texture rather than the microwave, which can make them soggy.

Can I freeze Thanksgiving Peas?
Certainly! To freeze your Thanksgiving Peas, allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the peas overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet with a bit of olive oil for the best results.

What if my pancetta doesn’t get crispy during cooking?
Very! If your pancetta isn’t crisping up, try reducing the heat slightly and allowing the fat to render out without burning. Patience is key—cook it for about 5–7 minutes, tossing occasionally until golden brown. If it’s still chewy, give it a bit more time; just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Can I make Thanksgiving Peas vegetarian?
Of course! To create a veggie-friendly version, simply omit the pancetta and use olive oil for sautéing the shallots. For added crunch and flavor, consider tossing in a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans. This will give a delightful crunch while still delivering the vibrant taste you crave!

Are there any allergens to consider when making Thanksgiving Peas?
While this dish is generally safe, always check for specific allergies. The pancetta contains pork, so for those avoiding meat, the vegetarian option works perfectly. Additionally, verify that your Dijon mustard contains no allergens like gluten or sulfites, depending on your dietary needs.