Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is a delightful addition to your holiday menu. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that harmonizes sweet pears with savory turkey strips, all wrapped in a light lemony Dijon mustard dressing. Perfect for family gatherings or festive dinners, this dish offers a unique twist that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create a colorful and delicious side dish.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet pears and savory turkey strips creates a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Option: This dish pairs well with various main courses, making it suitable for any occasion beyond Thanksgiving.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with peas and fresh herbs, this recipe adds both nutrition and flavor to your meal.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant colors of peas and pears make this dish visually appealing on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, it’s essential to have the right tools at hand. They help ensure everything from preparation to cooking goes seamlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the turkey strips evenly and sautéing other ingredients without overcrowding.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked turkey strips from the pan while leaving excess fat behind.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures easy chopping of shallots and pears for precise cuts.

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 the Fruit

• 1 pear

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest))

For Garnishing

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

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey strips and cook until golden brown. Using a slotted spoon, remove the turkey strips to a paper towel-lined plate. Drain off some of the rendered fat, leaving about 3 tablespoons in the pan.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

Add the sliced shallots to the skillet. Cook for about one minute until softened. Stir in the Dijon mustard for added flavor.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Introduce the peas and diced pears into the pan. Stir for about five minutes until everything is warmed through.

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

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

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the 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 not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors that will delight everyone at your table! Enjoy this festive side dish during your Thanksgiving celebration or any special occasion!

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

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a delightful side dish that pairs well with various main courses. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your Thanksgiving feast.

Pair with Turkey

• Traditional Roast Turkey: The savory flavor of the turkey strips complements the classic roast turkey beautifully.
• Grilled Turkey Breast: For a lighter option, serve alongside a grilled turkey breast seasoned with herbs.

Add Some Bread

• Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up the peas and adding texture.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky taste of garlic bread contrasts nicely with the sweetness of pears.

Include Salads

• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
• Cranberry Spinach Salad: The tartness of cranberries enhances the sweet notes in the Thanksgiving Peas.

Top it Off

• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan over the peas before serving adds a salty kick.
• Lemon Zest Garnish: Fresh lemon zest brightens the dish and adds visual appeal.

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

Making the perfect Thanksgiving Peas is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh shallots and ripe pears for the best flavor.
• Cook Turkey Strips Until Crispy: Ensure your turkey strips are golden brown for added crunch and taste.
• Don’t Overcook Peas: Heat them just until warmed through to maintain their vibrant color and texture.
• Adjust Lemon Juice to Taste: Add more lemon juice if you prefer a tangier flavor profile.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try different herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth in flavor.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy the dish while it’s hot for optimal taste and texture.

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

To create a well-rounded Thanksgiving meal, consider these delightful side dishes that pair perfectly with Thanksgiving Peas.

1. Rosemary Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with rosemary add comfort to your table.
2. Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed in maple syrup complement the flavors in the peas beautifully.
3. Stuffing with Herbs: Savory stuffing made with fresh herbs provides a classic touch to your meal.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts offer a nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of pears.
5. Sweet Potato Casserole: A creamy casserole topped with pecans brings warmth and heartiness to your feast.
6. Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans sautéed with almonds add crunch and freshness alongside your peas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

• Skipping the prep: Not prepping the pear ahead can lead to browning. Always slice and toss it with lemon juice beforehand.
• Overcooking the peas: Cooking peas too long can make them mushy. Just warm them through for the best texture.
• Ignoring seasoning: Forgetting to season with black pepper can dull the flavor. Taste as you go to ensure deliciousness.
• Using too much fat: Adding excess fat from cooking turkey can make the dish greasy. Drain properly, leaving just enough for flavor.
• Not garnishing: Skipping lemon zest on top misses an opportunity for added brightness and visual appeal. Always finish with zest!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• Freeze for up to 3 months, but note that texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl covered loosely for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What variations can I make with Thanksgiving Peas?

You can customize this dish by adding nuts for crunch or swapping pears with apples for a different sweetness.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas work well! Just adjust cooking time as they will cook faster than frozen ones.

How do I make Thanksgiving Peas ahead of time?

Prepare everything except adding parsley and turkey strips. Store in the fridge and complete just before serving.

What should I serve with Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or any protein like chicken or beef.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a delightful side dish that adds vibrant color and flavor to your holiday table. Its simplicity allows for various customizations, so feel free to adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Try it this Thanksgiving; your guests will love it!