Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a delightful side dish that perfectly complements your festive meal. This recipe combines the sweetness of pears with the savory crunch of turkey strips, all enveloped in flavorful frozen peas. It’s not just for Thanksgiving; enjoy it at family gatherings or casual dinners. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser that will elevate any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy holiday cooking.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of sweet pears and savory turkey strips creates a unique flavor profile that guests will love.
• Versatile Side Dish: While it’s excellent for Thanksgiving, this recipe can easily complement any meal throughout the year.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from turkey and nutrients from peas and pears, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors make this dish visually appealing on your dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your cooking process is smooth, gather the essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will make preparing your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space to cook the turkey strips evenly, ensuring they get crispy without overcrowding.
• Slotted spoon: Allows for easy removal of cooked turkey strips while leaving excess fat behind, keeping the dish lighter.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes slicing shallots and dicing pears quick and safe, reducing prep time significantly.

Ingredients

For the Dish

• ½ pound turkey strips (cut into small dice)
• 3 medium shallots (halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced))
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 16 ounces frozen peas
• 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 to prevent browning. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced turkey strips to the skillet. Cook until they are golden brown on all sides. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the turkey to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Leave about 3 tablespoons of rendered fat in the pan.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet, add the sliced shallots. Cook them for about one minute until softened. Then, stir in the Dijon mustard until well combined with the shallots.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Now it’s time to add both the frozen peas and prepared pears into the skillet. Stir everything together for about five minutes or until the peas are warmed through.

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat. Gently fold half of your cooked turkey strips back into the pan along with chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your Thanksgiving Peas mixture into a large serving bowl. Top it off with remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest for an extra pop of flavor!

Enjoy this delightful side dish at your next gathering!

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

This delightful dish can elevate your Thanksgiving feast with its vibrant colors and flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Present each portion in small, decorative bowls for a personal touch. This makes it easier for guests to serve themselves while adding elegance to the table.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle additional parsley or other fresh herbs on top just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

Pair with Gravy

• Offer a light turkey or chicken gravy on the side. This adds richness and complements the savory notes of the turkey strips.

Serve with Lemon Wedges

• Add lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze over their peas. The extra citrus brightness can elevate the dish even more.

Create a Family-Style Serving Dish

• Transfer the peas into a large serving platter instead of individual bowls. This encourages sharing and brings a warm, communal feel to your Thanksgiving meal.

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

To ensure your Thanksgiving peas shine at the dinner table, consider these helpful tips for perfecting the dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shallots and ripe pears. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and texture.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust black pepper and Dijon mustard based on your preference for spice and tanginess.

• Cook Turkey Strips Thoroughly: Ensure that turkey strips are cooked until golden brown for added texture and flavor.

• Thaw Peas Properly: If using frozen peas, allow them to thaw slightly before adding them to the skillet. This helps them heat evenly without becoming mushy.

• Add Crunch: Consider topping with toasted nuts or seeds for an additional crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the peas and pears.

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

Pairing your Thanksgiving peas with other side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with savory flavors.
2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic favorite that adds comfort; consider using garlic for an extra kick.
3. Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans tossed with almonds offer both crunch and freshness.
4. Stuffed Acorn Squash: Roasted acorn squash filled with grains or veggies provides a hearty complement.
5. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the savory elements perfectly.
6. Cornbread Muffins: These add a delightful sweetness and texture contrast to your meal.
7. Herbed Rice Pilaf: A light rice dish with herbs can soak up flavors from other dishes beautifully.
8. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter taste enhances the sweetness of pears in your main dish while adding depth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Bold ingredient measuring: Not measuring ingredients accurately can ruin the balance of flavors. Always use a scale or measuring cups for precision.

• Bold overcooking turkey strips: Cooking the turkey strips too long can make them tough. Keep an eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they’re golden brown.

• Bold neglecting shallots: Shallots are key for flavor but can burn quickly. Stir them frequently and watch the heat to achieve a perfect softness.

• Bold skipping lemon zest: Lemon zest adds brightness to the dish. Don’t skip it; instead, make sure to zest before juicing your lemon for ease.

• Bold underseasoning peas: Taste your dish while cooking! Underseasoned peas can taste bland. Adjust with freshly ground black pepper for that extra kick.

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 freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I substitute the turkey with another protein?

Yes! You can use chicken or beef strips if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times based on the protein chosen.

How do I make Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) vegan?

To create a vegan version, replace turkey with plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh, and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.

What other vegetables can I add to Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

Feel free to add carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Just chop them finely and sauté with shallots!

Can I prepare Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and cook just before serving for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) offers a delightful blend of flavors that enhances any holiday meal. This versatile side dish is easy to customize; feel free to experiment with different proteins or vegetables. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering!