Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is a delightful addition to your holiday table. Bursting with flavors from sweet pears and savory turkey, this dish offers a fresh twist on traditional sides. Its vibrant colors and delicious taste make it perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy holiday cooking.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of sweet pear, zesty lemon, and savory turkey strips creates a unique taste profile that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Side Dish: Not only suitable for Thanksgiving, but it also pairs well with any main course throughout the year.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with peas, pears, and fresh herbs, this dish is as healthy as it is delicious.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors are appealing to both kids and adults, making it a hit at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking the turkey strips evenly while allowing enough space for other ingredients.
• Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing the turkey strips without excess fat, helping maintain the dish’s flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Turkey Strips

• ½ pound turkey strips (cut into small dice)

For the Vegetables and Fruit

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

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)

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 mustard.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Add both peas and pears to the pan. Stir for about 5 minutes until 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 everything to a large serving bowl. Top with remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest.

Now you have an exquisite side dish that shines at any gathering! Enjoy your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) alongside your favorite meals.

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

Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and turkey strips make an excellent side dish for your festive meal. Their vibrant colors and delightful flavors will surely impress your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your presentation.

Festive Platter

• Arrange the peas in a large, decorative serving bowl and sprinkle with additional parsley for a pop of color.

Individual Portions

• Serve in small ramekins for a personal touch. This not only looks elegant but also makes it easy for guests to enjoy their own servings.

Accompanied by Bread

• Pair with warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls. The bread can be used to scoop up the peas, adding a comforting element to the meal.

With Citrus Garnish

• Add lemon wedges on the side for a zesty touch. Guests can squeeze fresh lemon juice over their serving for extra brightness.

As a Cold Salad

• Chill leftovers and serve as a refreshing salad the next day. Add some extra herbs or nuts for crunch.

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

To achieve the best version of Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and turkey strips, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh pears instead of canned ones. Fresh fruit adds more texture and flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving! If you prefer a stronger mustard flavor, add an extra pinch of Dijon mustard.
• Cook Turkey Strips Evenly: Ensure the turkey strips are cooked until golden brown for maximum crispiness. This enhances their texture in the dish.
• Experiment with Herbs: While parsley is great, consider adding thyme or rosemary for a unique twist that pairs well with turkey.
• Serve Warm: For best results, serve immediately after cooking while everything is warm. This keeps the peas vibrant and delicious.

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

Pairing your Thanksgiving Peas with complementary side dishes can create a balanced meal that delights everyone at the table. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic provide comfort and richness that complement the peas beautifully.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add crunch and earthiness, balancing out the sweetness of the pears.
3. Sweet Potato Casserole: A sweet potato dish topped with marshmallows or pecans offers a delightful contrast to the savory peas.
4. Green Bean Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans tossed with almonds provide a fresh, nutty flavor that pairs well with turkey.
5. Butternut Squash Soup: A creamy soup made from roasted butternut squash can serve as a warm starter that sets the tone for your meal.
6. Quinoa Salad: A colorful quinoa salad loaded with vegetables offers protein and fiber, making it a healthy addition to your plate.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful sweetness that complements savory dishes wonderfully.
8. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce brings brightness to the table, enhancing flavors across all dishes served during Thanksgiving dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Overcooking the turkey strips: This can lead to dry meat. Cook them just until they are golden brown for the best texture.
• Ignoring the lemon juice: Skipping this step can result in a bland dish. The lemon juice adds brightness and balances the flavors beautifully.
• Using low-quality peas: Frozen peas should be bright green and firm. Old or discolored peas can spoil the dish, so check your package before cooking.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can leave your dish flat. Always taste and adjust with freshly ground black pepper and salt as needed.
• Forgetting to stir frequently: This helps ensure even cooking, especially when adding the pears and peas. Stirring prevents sticking and burns.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag for storage.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

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 other fruits in Thanksgiving Peas?

Absolutely! Try using apples or cranberries for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace turkey strips with plant-based alternatives or skip them altogether for a lighter side.

What pairs well with Thanksgiving Peas?

These peas complement roasted meats, stuffing, or any holiday side dishes beautifully.

Can I prepare Thanksgiving Peas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all ingredients beforehand and simply cook them right before serving.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a delightful addition to your holiday spread. Its combination of sweet pears, savory turkey, and fresh peas creates a balanced flavor that everyone will love. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables to make it uniquely yours!