Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears

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why make this recipe

Thanksgiving is a special time for family and friends to gather around the table and share delicious food. While there are many traditional dishes that we often prepare, it’s also nice to have a few unique sides that stand out. Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears is one such dish that combines sweetness, savory flavors, and bright colors to enhance your holiday meal.

This dish is not just tasty, but it also brings a touch of elegance to your table. Peas are a classic vegetable side, but adding pancetta gives them a rich flavor, while ripe pears bring a sweet contrast. The combination of ingredients is sure to impress your guests and create a lovely addition to your Thanksgiving feast. It’s easy to prepare, making it a wonderful choice for those who want to spend more time enjoying the holiday and less time in the kitchen.

how to make Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears

Creating Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears is simple and quick. This recipe is perfect for those who want to whip up a tasty side dish without spending too much time in the kitchen. Let’s walk through the steps to make this delightful dish.

Ingredients:

2 cups frozen peas
4 ounces pancetta, diced
1 ripe pear, diced
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil (optional)

Directions:

Cook the Pancetta: Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta to the skillet and cook it until crispy. This step usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. You can adjust the heat as necessary to avoid burning the pancetta. The goal is to render the fat and achieve a crisp texture.
Add the Peas: Once the pancetta is crispy, add the frozen peas to the skillet. Cook them until heated through, which should take around 3 to 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Incorporate the Pear: Now it’s time to add the diced pear to the skillet. Stir the mixture and cook for a few more minutes until the pears are slightly softened. This should only take a couple of minutes since you want them to maintain some of their texture.
Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, add the Dijon mustard and lemon juice. Mix these two ingredients together until well combined. This dressing will add a fantastic tangy flavor to the peas, pancetta, and pears.
Combine Everything: Pour the mustard mixture over the pea, pancetta, and pear mixture in the skillet. Stir well to ensure everything is coated evenly with the dressing.
Season: Finally, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the pancetta will add some saltiness, so adjust accordingly.
Serve: Transfer the Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears to a serving dish and enjoy warm as a delightful side dish for your Thanksgiving dinner.

how to serve Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears

Serving Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears is simple, but there are a few tips to make it extra special. This dish can be served directly from the skillet if you prefer a more rustic feel, or you can transfer it to a beautiful serving bowl for an elegant presentation.

To enhance the visual appeal, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or mint, just before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish. It pairs beautifully with traditional Thanksgiving entrees like turkey and ham and can also be enjoyed with other festive foods like stuffing or mashed potatoes.

how to store Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears

If you find yourself with leftovers of Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears, you can easily store them for later use. Here are some tips on how to store this dish:

Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to 3 to 4 days.
Reheating: When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in a skillet over low heat. Stir gently until warmed through. You may add a splash of water or olive oil to help regain some of the original moisture.
Freezing: If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze the dish. However, keep in mind that the texture of the peas and pears may change slightly after freezing. Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the skillet.

tips to make Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears

Here are some handy tips to ensure your Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears comes out perfect:

Choose Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, select fresh and high-quality ingredients, especially the pancetta and pears. A ripe pear will add natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Monitor Cooking Times: Be careful not to overcook the peas or pears. You want the peas to retain their bright green color and the pears to be tender yet still holding their shape.
Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your personal taste. If you prefer more tang, add an extra splash of lemon juice. For added flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Make it Ahead: If you are hosting a big Thanksgiving dinner, consider making this dish ahead of time. You can prepare everything up to the mixing of the dressing and warming of the dish, then quickly finish it just before serving.

variation (if any)

While Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears is delicious as is, you can certainly make some variations to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:

Add Nuts: Incorporating some toasted walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and additional flavor to the dish.
Use Bacon: If pancetta isn’t available or if you prefer, you can substitute it with bacon. The cooking method remains the same, although bacon can be a bit saltier than pancetta.
Make it Vegetarian: To make this dish vegetarian, you can omit the pancetta and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas to give it a hearty texture.
Herb Variations: Add some fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage when cooking the pancetta for extra flavor.
Different Mustards: Experiment with different types of mustard. You can use whole grain mustard or spicy brown mustard for a different taste.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish without pancetta?
Absolutely! You can make Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears without pancetta. Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for extra texture and flavor.

2. How do I know when the pears are done cooking?
You want the pears to be slightly softened but still hold their shape. Test them by gently pressing with a fork. If they give a little but are not mushy, they are ready.

3. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas! Just be sure to blanch them in boiling water for a minute before adding them to the skillet so they cook evenly.

4. What can I serve with Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or a vegetarian option like stuffed squash. It’s also a great complement to traditional sides like stuffing and mashed potatoes.

5. How do I reheat the leftover peas with pancetta and pears?
Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can add a little olive oil or water to help regain moisture if needed.

Thanksgiving Peas with Pancetta and Pears is a fantastic way to brighten your holiday table with its colorful ingredients and exquisite flavors. Whether you are hosting a large family gathering or an intimate dinner, this dish will surely impress and delight your guests. Enjoy the cooking process, and don’t forget to savor the warm and inviting atmosphere of the season!