Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is a delightful addition to any holiday table. Combining tender peas, savory turkey strips, and sweet pears with a hint of lemony Dijon mustard, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors. It’s not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for various occasions beyond Thanksgiving. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or a casual dinner, it’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy cooks during the holidays.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of sweet pears and zesty lemon enhances the savory taste of turkey, creating a unique flavor profile that stands out.
• Versatile Side Dish: While ideal for Thanksgiving, this recipe can complement any meal throughout the year.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from turkey and fiber from peas, this dish aligns perfectly with a health-conscious menu.
• Colorful Presentation: The bright green peas and golden pears add vibrant color to your plate, enhancing the visual appeal of your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Allows for even cooking of the turkey strips and ensures that all ingredients are combined well.
• Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing cooked turkey without excess fat, keeping your dish light and flavorful.

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 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 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 pan. Cook for about a 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 5 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 peas mixture to a large serving bowl. Top with the remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest.

Enjoy your flavorful Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) as a delightful side dish that will surely impress your guests!

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

Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and turkey strips is a delightful side dish that complements many main courses. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a festive addition to your table. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your Thanksgiving meal.

As a Standalone Side

• Serve the peas in a decorative bowl for a simple yet elegant presentation. This allows their vibrant green color and the specks of pear to shine.

Pair with Roasted Turkey

• The savory flavor of turkey pairs beautifully with this dish. Use the remaining turkey scraps from your main course to amplify the taste.

Accompanied by Dinner Rolls

• Soft, warm dinner rolls can balance the savory notes of this dish. They also provide a lovely texture contrast when served together.

Garnished with Lemon Zest

• Top your Thanksgiving Peas with additional lemon zest right before serving. This adds a fresh burst of flavor that enhances the overall dish.

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

To ensure your Thanksgiving Peas turn out perfectly, consider these helpful tips. These will enhance flavors and improve texture, making your dish even more enjoyable.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shallots and ripe pears bring more flavor than older, less vibrant options.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! You may want more black pepper or lemon juice based on your preference.
• Don’t Overcook Peas: Keep the peas bright green by cooking them just until warmed through—about 5 minutes.
• Mix in Fresh Herbs: Adding basil or mint along with parsley can elevate the flavor profile of the dish.
• Chill Before Serving: If you prefer a cold side, let the peas cool down after cooking for a refreshing option.

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

Pairing side dishes with Thanksgiving Peas can create a harmonious meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the sweetness of pears perfectly.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter flavor provides a nice contrast to the sweetness in the peas and pears.
3. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce adds brightness and balances well with savory flavors.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole: Sweet potatoes add richness and pair nicely with both turkey and peas.
5. Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans topped with toasted almonds create an appealing texture alongside your peas.
6. Stuffing: A flavorful stuffing made with herbs can round out your meal, providing comforting tastes next to the peas.
7. Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy soup can serve as an excellent appetizer, setting a warm tone before diving into Thanksgiving favorites.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Lightly sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful bite that complements all other dishes on the table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Overcooking the turkey strips: Cooking them too long can make them dry. Only cook until golden brown, then remove them promptly.
• Skipping the lemon juice: The lemon juice adds brightness to the dish. Make sure to include it to balance the flavors.
• Using unripe pears: Unripe pears can be hard and lack sweetness. Choose ripe pears for the best flavor and texture.
• Not seasoning adequately: Freshly ground black pepper enhances taste. Don’t skip this step; adjust to your preference.
• Forgetting about the parsley: Parsley adds freshness and color. Stir it in right before serving for maximum impact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered for about 15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other fruits instead of pears?

Yes! You can substitute with apples or even dried fruits like cranberries for a different flavor profile.

Are there any alternatives to turkey strips?

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

How do I make Thanksgiving Peas vegetarian?

Simply omit the turkey strips and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it just before serving.

What goes well with Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, stuffing, or any traditional Thanksgiving sides.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a delightful addition to your holiday table. Its combination of sweet pears and savory turkey creates a unique flavor experience. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or swapping out herbs based on your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress your guests!