Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is a delightful addition to your holiday feast! The combination of tender peas, sweet pears, and savory turkey strips creates a dish that is both flavorful and festive. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any family gathering, this side dish brings a burst of color and taste to your table. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious side dish in about 30 minutes.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of sweet pears, crispy turkey strips, and zesty lemon enhances the overall taste.
• Versatile Serving: Ideal for Thanksgiving gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish fits various occasions seamlessly.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with peas and fresh parsley, it’s not only tasty but also a healthy choice.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the mild flavors and appealing textures of this colorful side.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before starting the recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for evenly cooking the turkey strips while allowing enough space to add other ingredients later.
• Slotted spoon: This tool helps to remove the turkey strips without excess grease, ensuring a healthier final dish.

Ingredients

For the Turkey Strips

• ½ pound turkey strips (cut into small dice)

For the Vegetables and Fruits

• 3 medium shallots (halved and thinly sliced)
• 1 pear
• 16 ounces frozen peas

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 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 skillet. Cook for about a minute until softened, then stir in the Dijon mustard.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Add both 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 chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 6: Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) as a standout side on your holiday table!

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

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) make a delightful addition to your holiday feast. Their vibrant color and savory-sweet flavor profile can complement a variety of dishes.

Pair with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes add a lovely earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the pears.

Serve with Gravy

• A light turkey or vegetable gravy drizzled over the peas enhances the dish and adds moisture, making every bite delectable.

Combine with Rice or Quinoa

• Serving Thanksgiving Peas over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa can create a hearty meal. The grains will soak up the lemony mustard flavors beautifully.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top your serving with additional freshly chopped parsley or thyme for an aromatic touch that brightens the dish.

Accompany with Cranberry Sauce

• The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the turkey strips and peas.

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

To elevate your Thanksgiving Peas, consider these useful tips. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture for this festive side dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Choosing fresh shallots and ripe pears will significantly enhance the overall taste.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook! A pinch of salt or extra pepper can make all the difference in flavor.
• Cook peas perfectly: Ensure you only heat frozen peas just until warmed through; overcooking can lead to mushiness.
• Experiment with herbs: Try adding different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist on this classic dish.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare some components in advance, such as cooking the turkey strips, which saves time on Thanksgiving day.

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

Thanksgiving Peas pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance your holiday table. Consider these options to round out your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and richness alongside your peas.
2. Stuffing: A savory stuffing made from bread, vegetables, and herbs brings traditional warmth to your Thanksgiving dinner.
3. Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans sautéed with almonds add crunch and freshness, creating a colorful plate.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish is sweetened with brown sugar and topped with marshmallows for a delightful contrast.
5. Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and beets roasted until caramelized bring natural sweetness that pairs well with your main dish.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful balance to savory flavors while adding a touch of Southern charm to your meal.
7. Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad topped with nuts and cranberries adds vibrancy and healthfulness to your spread.
8. Stuffed Acorn Squash: This beautiful dish filled with grains and nuts creates an impressive focal point on any table while being deliciously nutritious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes people make when preparing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) and how to avoid them.

• Overcooking the peas: Frozen peas only need a few minutes to warm through. Cooking them too long can make them mushy. Aim for about 5 minutes after adding them to the skillet.

• Neglecting to prep ingredients: Not preparing all your ingredients beforehand can lead to confusion while cooking. Dice your turkey, shallots, and pear before you start cooking.

• Skipping the lemon juice: The lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the flavors. Don’t skip it; instead, add it right after dicing the pear.

• Not adjusting seasoning: Remember to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This simple step can greatly enhance the overall flavor of your dish.

• Forgetting garnish: Garnishing with lemon zest not only adds visual appeal but also enhances flavor. Don’t skip this final touch!

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)

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from bags.

Reheating Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, then stir occasionally until warm.

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?

You can! Fresh peas will need less cooking time than frozen ones—just ensure they’re tender before mixing them in.

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

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for additional color and flavor. You can also substitute chicken for turkey if preferred.

What is the best way to serve Thanksgiving Peas?

This dish works well as a side alongside roasted meats or holiday spreads. Consider serving it in a decorative bowl for festive appeal!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything except for adding the peas ahead of time. Simply reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a delightful addition to any holiday table. Its combination of savory turkey, sweet pears, and bright mustard makes it versatile for various meals. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs!