Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. There’s just something about gathering with loved ones, indulging in delicious comfort foods, and creating special memories that warms my heart. And when it comes to side dishes, one that’s become a staple on our Thanksgiving table is Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta. It’s a dish that just screams fall – the sweet and savory flavors, the vibrant colors, the irresistible aroma. I can still remember the first time my Aunt Bea served it at our family gathering a few years ago. The moment I took that first bite, I was hooked. The way the crispy pancetta contrasted with the tender peas and juicy pear – it was like a party in my mouth! From that day on, I knew I had to get the recipe and make it a part of our annual Thanksgiving feast.
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 unexpected combination of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the pear perfectly balances the savory pancetta, while the fresh peas add a delightful crunch. But the real secret is in the seasoning – a blend of warm spices that elevate the dish to new heights. Trust me, your guests will be raving about it long after the last bite is gone.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Peas: Fresh or frozen peas work equally well in this recipe. The key is to not overcook them, so they retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
- Pear: I prefer to use a firm, slightly tart variety like Bosc or Anjou. The pear adds a lovely sweetness that complements the savory pancetta.
- Pancetta: Crispy, salty pancetta is the star of the show. It provides a wonderful meaty flavor and irresistible crunch.
- Onion: A diced onion sautéed in the rendered pancetta fat adds depth and aroma to the dish.
- Spices: A blend of garlic, thyme, and a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg ties all the flavors together perfectly.
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 comes together quickly, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need a large skillet or sauté pan and a sharp knife for chopping the pear and onion.
1- Begin by dicing the pancetta into small, bite-sized pieces. Sauté the pancetta in the skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy and the fat has rendered, about 5-7 minutes.
2- Add the diced onion to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is softened and fragrant.
3- Next, add the fresh or frozen peas to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes, just until they’re tender but still have a slight bite.
4- Peel, core, and dice the pear, then add it to the pan. Let the pear warm through, about 2 minutes, until it’s slightly softened but still holds its shape.
5- Season the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta with minced garlic, dried thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine everything evenly.
6- Finally, give the dish a final taste and adjust any seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
The key to perfect Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is to not overcook the peas. You want them to retain their vibrant green color and slight crunch. Also, be sure to use a firm, slightly tart pear variety, as they hold up better during cooking.
And don’t be afraid to play around with the spices – a pinch of cayenne or a squeeze of lemon juice can add a delightful twist.
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, creamy mashed potatoes, and warm, crusty bread. For a festive beverage, I love to serve it with a crisp white wine or a sparkling apple cider.
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 in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
You can also prepare this dish a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the final step, then let it cool completely before refrigerating. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop as described above.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
Creative Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Variations
While the classic Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is hard to beat, you can easily switch things up with a few simple variations. Try adding a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or swap in cubed butternut squash or roasted Brussels sprouts for a seasonal twist.
Making Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta Diet-Friendly
To make this dish more dietary-friendly, you can easily swap the pancetta for crispy turkey bacon or opt for a vegetarian option by using diced tofu or tempeh instead. For a gluten-free version, simply serve it over quinoa or cauliflower rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned or frozen pears instead of fresh?
A: While fresh pears are ideal, you can certainly use canned or frozen pears in a pinch. Just be sure to drain and pat them dry before adding them to the dish. The texture may be a bit softer, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Q: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A: To make vegan Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta, simply omit the pancetta and use a plant-based protein like crispy tofu or tempeh instead. You can also swap the butter for olive oil or vegan butter. Adjust the seasoning as needed to keep the flavors balanced.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, this Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta recipe is very make-ahead friendly. You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance, then simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.
Q: How many people does this recipe serve?
A: This Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta recipe serves 4-6 people as a side dish. If you’re serving it as part of a larger Thanksgiving spread, it should be enough for 6-8 servings.
Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 6
Description
Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is a classic holiday side dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. Tender green peas are combined with juicy pear slices and crispy pancetta in a rich, decadent cream sauce for a side dish that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
– 1 lb fresh green peas, shelled
– 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced
– 4 oz pancetta, diced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Instructions
1. – In a large skillet, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pancetta from the skillet and set aside.
2. – In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shelled green peas and diced pear. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and the pear is slightly softened.
3. – Pour in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
4. – Stir the cooked pancetta back into the skillet and toss to combine.
5. – Serve the Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta warm as a delightful holiday side dish.
Notes
For best results, use fresh green peas. Frozen peas can also be used, but may require an extra minute or two of cooking time. Adjust the amount of cream to your desired consistency. This dish can be made ahead and reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
I hope this Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta recipe becomes a new holiday favorite in your household, just as it has in mine. The combination of flavors and textures is simply unbeatable. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think in the comments below. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
