Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is a delightful addition to any holiday feast! Combining sweet pears, crispy turkey strips, and vibrant peas, this dish offers a unique twist on traditional Thanksgiving sides. Its bright flavors and festive colors make it perfect not just for Thanksgiving but for any gathering where you want to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With a quick prep time of just 10 minutes, you’ll have this flavorful side dish ready in no time.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of sweet pears and tangy Dijon mustard brings a delightful taste that complements any main dish.
• Versatile Serving: This dish is not only great for Thanksgiving; it’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and holiday parties.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with peas and fresh herbs, it’s a nutritious option that adds color and goodness to your plate.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique flavor profile makes it an instant favorite among guests of all ages.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious side dish, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Slotted Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Small Bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: A spacious skillet ensures even cooking for the turkey strips and allows you to combine all ingredients easily.
• Slotted Spoon: This tool helps you remove the turkey strips from the skillet without excess fat, keeping your dish light and healthy.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for dicing the pear and shallots with ease.

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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 Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest))
• ½ cup roughly chopped parsley
• freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Pear

• 1 pear

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.

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, then stir in the Dijon mustard.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Add the peas and diced pears to 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 parsley and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the pea mixture to a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining turkey strips, then garnish with lemon zest before serving. Enjoy this festive side at your next gathering!

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 creative serving suggestions to elevate your Thanksgiving dinner.

Enhance with Seasonal Flavors

• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce adds a burst of flavor and color to your plate.
• Roasted Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch.

Pair with Other Sides

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting companion to the savory peas.
• Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweetness of this dish complements the flavors of the peas beautifully.

Garnish for Presentation

• Fresh Herbs: Top your dish with extra parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges on the side for guests who want to add a zesty kick.

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

To ensure your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) turn out perfectly, follow these tips.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t shy away from adding extra black pepper or herbs for more flavor.
• Fresh ingredients: Use fresh shallots and ripe pears for the best taste and texture.
• Cook evenly: Stir the peas often while cooking to ensure they heat evenly without becoming mushy.
• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup before serving.

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

If you’re looking to create a well-rounded Thanksgiving meal, consider these complementary side dishes that pair wonderfully with Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips).

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the peas.
2. Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds brightness and pairs well with savory dishes; serve it simply grilled or boiled.
3. Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans topped with toasted almonds provide crunch and a touch of elegance.
4. Savory Stuffing: A traditional stuffing made with herbs will enhance the festive feel of your meal.
5. Maple-Glazed Carrots: Roasted carrots glazed in maple syrup offer sweetness that complements the savory elements on your plate.
6. Creamed Spinach: This rich, creamy dish adds depth to your meal while being easy to prepare ahead of time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Overcooking the turkey strips – If you cook the turkey strips for too long, they can become tough and dry. Keep an eye on them and remove them from heat once they are golden brown.
• Ignoring the size of the diced pear – Cutting the pear into large pieces can result in uneven cooking. Ensure you dice it small enough so it blends well with the peas.
• Not seasoning adequately – Peas need proper seasoning to shine. Don’t skip adding freshly ground black pepper or adjusting salt to taste.
• Using old frozen peas – Old frozen peas may lose their flavor and texture. Always check the expiration date and use fresh, high-quality frozen peas for best results.
• Skipping the lemon zest – The lemon zest adds a burst of freshness that elevates the dish. Avoid skipping this step for maximum flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow cooling completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish, cover, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas can be used, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time as fresh peas cook more quickly than frozen ones.

What can I substitute for turkey strips?

You can use chicken or beef strips as an alternative if you prefer a different protein.

How do I add more flavor to my Thanksgiving Peas?

Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary. You could also include some garlic for extra depth.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to cooking and then store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a delightful addition to your holiday meal. Its combination of sweet pears and savory turkey creates a festive side dish that complements any main course. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables for even more variety!