Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a delightful side dish that elevates your holiday feast! This vibrant mix combines the sweetness of pears with the savory crunch of turkey strips and peas. Perfect for Thanksgiving, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also adds a festive touch to any gathering. Your guests will love its unique flavor profile, making it an ideal addition to your holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy holiday cooking.
• Flavorful Combination: The pairing of sweet pears, crispy turkey strips, and Dijon mustard creates a deliciously unique flavor.
• Versatile Side Dish: While perfect for Thanksgiving, this recipe works well for any festive occasion or family dinner.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with peas and fresh parsley, this dish offers vitamins and minerals without compromising on taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the ingredients in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the turkey strips.
• Slotted spoon: This tool is perfect for transferring cooked turkey strips without excess grease.
• Cutting board: A stable cutting surface is essential for safely preparing ingredients like pears and shallots.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you need to prepare Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips):

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 Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 pear
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest))
• 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 dice the pear into small pieces. Place it in a small bowl and stir in the lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced turkey strips to the pan. Cook until they are golden brown, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. Drain off some of the rendered fat from the skillet, leaving about 3 tablespoons.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet, add the sliced shallots. Sauté them for about one minute until they soften. Stir in the Dijon mustard until well combined.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Add both the frozen peas and diced pears to the skillet. Stir everything together for about five minutes until the peas are heated 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 until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the mixture into a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) at your next holiday gathering!

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

Serving Thanksgiving Peas with pear and turkey strips is a delightful way to enhance your festive meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with various side items, making it versatile for your Thanksgiving table.

Pair with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes add color and flavor that complements the sweetness of the pears.

Serve with Cranberry Sauce

• A tangy cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the peas and turkey.

Accompany with Dinner Rolls

• Soft dinner rolls are perfect for scooping up the peas and turkey, adding a satisfying texture to every bite.

Add a Green Salad

• A light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish while providing a fresh crunch.

Include Stuffing

• Traditional stuffing made with herbs and vegetables can be a hearty addition that rounds out your Thanksgiving feast.

Pair with Gravy

• Drizzling some savory gravy over the Thanksgiving peas can elevate the dish, adding more depth to its flavor profile.

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

To make your Thanksgiving Peas even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and ripe pears will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and add freshly ground black pepper to suit your preference; this adds warmth without overwhelming other flavors.
• Don’t overcook peas: Be careful not to overcook the peas; they should be tender yet vibrant green for optimal texture.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or sage can provide additional layers of flavor that work beautifully in this recipe.
• Presentation matters: Garnish with lemon zest just before serving for an eye-catching finish that also adds brightness.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the turkey strips and shallots in advance, saving time on Thanksgiving Day while keeping flavors intact.

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

Complementing your Thanksgiving Peas with other side dishes creates an unforgettable holiday feast. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a rich pairing that balances well with turkey.
2. Green Bean Almondine – Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds add crunch and freshness to your plate.
3. Sweet Potato Casserole – Topped with marshmallows or pecans, this dish offers sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory elements.
4. Cornbread Stuffing – A sweet cornbread stuffing provides a delightful texture while complementing the sweetness from the pears.
5. Maple Glazed Carrots – These naturally sweet carrots bring brightness and color, harmonizing beautifully with all dishes on your table.
6. Baked Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy and cheesy, this comfort food adds indulgence to your meal while being loved by many.
7. Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Substitutes – Use turkey bacon or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor that pairs well without using pork products.
8. Spinach Salad with Berries – Fresh spinach topped with seasonal berries offers a refreshing bite alongside rich main dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) dish from good to great.

• Skipping ingredient prep: Always prepare all your ingredients before cooking. This ensures a smooth cooking process and prevents overcooking.
• Overcooking the turkey strips: Cook the turkey strips until golden brown but not dry. Keep an eye on them to maintain their juicy texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning as you cook. Freshly ground black pepper can enhance the overall flavor, making your dish more delightful.
• Ignoring the lemon juice: The lemon juice brightens up the flavors. Make sure to add it to the pears right after slicing, so they don’t brown and retain their sweetness.
• Not serving immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) right after cooking. Waiting too long can affect the freshness of the peas.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Use within 3 days for optimal flavor.

Freezing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), here are some common questions answered.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

You can use fresh peas! Just blanch them briefly before adding them to the recipe to ensure they stay vibrant.

How can I customize Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch or swap out parsley for fresh thyme for a different flavor profile.

What other fruits can I use with this dish?

In addition to pears, you could try apples or even diced peaches depending on what you prefer or have on hand.

Is this a gluten-free recipe?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten in their meals.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a delicious side that adds both color and flavor to your holiday table. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal preferences, making it suitable for any gathering. Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe that will surely impress your guests!

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Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Delight in these flavorful Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) – an easy side dish that brings festive flair! Try it today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ½ pound turkey strips
• 3 medium shallots
• 16 ounces frozen peas
• 1 pear
• 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ cup chopped parsley
• Freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Peel, slice, and dice the pear, mixing it with lemon juice in a small bowl to prevent browning. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook diced turkey strips until golden brown. Remove and drain excess fat from the skillet.
3. Sauté sliced shallots in the same skillet for one minute, then stir in Dijon mustard.
4. Add frozen peas and diced pears to the skillet, stirring for about five minutes until heated through.
5. Remove from heat and mix in half of the cooked turkey strips along with chopped parsley and black pepper.
6. Serve warm, topping with remaining turkey strips and lemon zest.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added crunch, consider tossing in walnuts or pecans. Swap parsley for fresh thyme to change up the flavor profile. Use fresh peas if available; blanch briefly before adding.