Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday, and one dish that holds a special place in my heart is Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down in my family for generations, and it’s become a tradition that we look forward to every year.
Growing up, I can remember the aroma of the sizzling pancetta and the sweet scent of the pear wafting through the house as my grandma prepared this dish. I’d sneak into the kitchen, hoping to snag a few bites before dinner, but she’d always shoo me away, insisting that I wait for the big reveal. And when it finally hit the table, it was always worth the wait – the peas were perfectly tender, the pear added a lovely sweetness, and the pancetta provided a salty, savory crunch that just made the whole dish sing.
Now that I’m older and have taken on the responsibility of hosting Thanksgiving, I make sure to include Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta on the menu every year. It’s become a staple that my family and friends look forward to, and it never fails to bring back those cherished memories of my childhood.
Why This Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
What makes this Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta recipe so special is the unique combination of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the pear perfectly complements the salty, savory pancetta, while the peas add a lovely, tender crunch. But the real secret is in the technique – by gently cooking the peas and pear together, you end up with a dish that’s both vibrant and well-balanced, with no single flavor overpowering the others.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Fresh peas: Look for plump, bright green peas that are bursting with flavor.
- Ripe pear: Choose a sweet, juicy pear that will caramelize beautifully when cooked.
- Pancetta: This cured Italian bacon adds a delicious, salty-smoky element to the dish.
- Shallot: Finely minced shallot provides a subtle onion flavor that ties everything together.
- Butter: A bit of butter helps to create a rich, velvety texture.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme and parsley add a lovely aromatic touch.
- Salt and pepper: To season the dish and bring out all the flavors.
Step-by-Step Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Instructions
Preparing Your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
This Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta recipe is quick and easy to prepare, with a total cooking time of just 30 minutes. You’ll need a large skillet or sauté pan, a sharp knife, and a cutting board.
1- Start by dicing the pancetta into small cubes and mincing the shallot. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until it’s crispy and the fat has rendered.
2- Add the minced shallot to the pan and sauté until it’s fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3- Next, add the fresh peas and diced pear to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and the pear is softened.
4- Stir in the butter, fresh thyme, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste, making sure the flavors are well-balanced.
5- Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the butter has melted and the dish is heated through.
6- Transfer the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta to a serving dish and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta turn out perfectly, here are a few pro tips:
- Use ripe, juicy pears for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the peas – you want them to be tender but still have a nice bite.
- Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your personal preferences.
- If the dish seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to loosen it up.
Serving and Storing Your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
Perfect Pairings for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
This Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta dish is the perfect accompaniment to your holiday feast. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, and a glass of crisp white wine. It’s also a great option for vegetarians or those looking for a lighter side dish.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.
You can also make this dish in advance. Simply prepare the recipe up to the point of adding the butter and herbs, then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in a skillet and stir in the butter and herbs.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
Creative Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of ways to customize this Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta recipe. Try adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for extra crunch. You could also swap the pear for another seasonal fruit, like apples or figs. And for a bit of heat, you could stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Making Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Diet-Friendly
To make this dish more diet-friendly, you can easily swap the pancetta for turkey bacon or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version. You can also use a smaller amount of butter or even replace it with olive oil. And for those following a low-carb diet, you can serve the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta over roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles instead of traditional starch-based sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can absolutely use frozen peas in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them first and adjust the cooking time accordingly, as frozen peas may cook a bit faster than fresh.
Q: How do I know when the peas and pear are cooked through?
A: The peas should be tender but still have a slight bite, and the pear should be softened and caramelized around the edges. You can test this by gently piercing a pea and pear with a fork – they should be easy to pierce but not mushy.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: Yes, you can make Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of adding the butter and herbs, then let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in a skillet and stir in the butter and herbs.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: To reheat leftover Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it frequently and check for hot spots.
Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
- Total Time: 15
- Yield: 6
Description
Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is a delightful and easy-to-make holiday side dish that combines the sweetness of pears, the savory crunch of pancetta, and the tenderness of fresh peas. This classic recipe is ready in just 5 minutes and is sure to be a hit on your Thanksgiving table.
Ingredients
– 1 lb fresh or frozen peas
– 2 ripe pears, diced
– 4 oz diced pancetta
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. 1. In a large skillet, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes.
2. 2. Add the diced pears and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the pears start to soften.
3. 3. Add the fresh or frozen peas, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the peas are tender and heated through.
4. 4. Serve the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta warm, garnished with additional pepper if desired.
Notes
For a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of butter or heavy cream just before serving. This dish can also be made ahead and reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is a truly special dish that’s perfect for your holiday feast. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. So go ahead and give this recipe a try – I promise it won’t disappoint! And don’t forget to let me know how it turns out. I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
