Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is a delightful addition to any holiday feast! It combines the sweetness of pears with the savory crunch of turkey strips, all enveloped in a vibrant green pea mix. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any celebratory occasion, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a refreshing twist to your usual side dishes. The zesty lemon and mustard dressing brings everything together, making it a standout on your dining table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy holiday cooking.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweet pears paired with savory turkey strips create a delicious balance that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Side Dish: Suitable for various occasions, from Thanksgiving dinners to casual family gatherings, this recipe fits right in.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from turkey and fiber from peas and pears, this dish is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors make this dish visually appealing, ensuring it stands out on any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), you will need a few essential tools that will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the turkey strips evenly and sautéing the shallots without crowding.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for transferring cooked ingredients without excess liquid, keeping your dish light and flavorful.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

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)
• 16 ounces frozen peas
• 1 pear (peeled, sliced, and diced)

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced, about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest)

For Garnish

• 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

Begin by peeling, slicing, and dicing the pear. In a small bowl, toss the diced pear with lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Strips

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced turkey strips and cook until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pan onto a paper towel-lined plate for draining excess fat.

Step 3: Add the Shallots

In the same skillet, add sliced shallots. Cook for about one minute until softened. Stir in the Dijon mustard to coat the shallots.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

Next, add the frozen peas and prepared pears to the pan. Stir continuously for about five minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Stir in Turkey Strips and Parsley

Turn off the heat. Stir in half of the crispy turkey strips along with chopped parsley and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your Thanksgiving peas mixture into a large serving bowl. Top with remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest before serving.

Enjoy this flavorful side that will surely impress your guests at any gathering!

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

Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and turkey strips make a delightful addition to any holiday meal. Their vibrant colors and savory-sweet flavors can enhance your Thanksgiving table.

Pair with Grains

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the peas perfectly.
• Wild Rice Pilaf: The nutty flavor of wild rice adds depth to your plate alongside the peas.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh greens salad with a citrus dressing brightens up the meal.
• Spinach and Strawberry Salad: The sweetness of strawberries pairs well with the savory elements of the dish.

Include Additional Proteins

• Roasted Chicken: Juicy roasted chicken can balance the flavors in your Thanksgiving feast.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with grains and vegetables add variety to your spread.

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

To ensure your Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and turkey strips turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshness will enhance the overall flavor. Choose ripe pears and vibrant peas.
• Pre-Cook Turkey Strips: Cook turkey strips until they are golden brown for the best texture and taste.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust the amount of Dijon mustard to suit your palate; you can start small and add more if desired.
• Don’t Overcook Peas: Heat them just until warm to maintain their bright color and texture.
• Garnish Generously: Use fresh parsley and lemon zest as garnishes for added brightness.

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

When planning your holiday menu, consider these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with Thanksgiving Peas.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting base.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add crunch and a slightly bitter note that balances sweetness.
3. Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots offer a colorful contrast to the peas.
4. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce provides a nice acidity that enhances all dishes on the table.
5. Herbed Stuffing: Flavorful stuffing filled with herbs complements the festive flavors of your meal.
6. Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach can be an indulgent addition, pairing well with lighter dishes like peas.

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 dish’s overall taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your recipe turns out perfectly.

• Using unripe pears: Unripe pears can be hard and lack flavor. Choose ripe pears for sweetness and softness, enhancing the overall dish.
• Overcooking the peas: Cooking peas too long can make them mushy. Aim for just a few minutes until they’re warmed through to keep their vibrant color and texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season properly can lead to blandness. Always taste as you go, adding salt and pepper to elevate flavors.
• Not prepping ingredients ahead: Failing to prep ingredients in advance can slow you down. Have everything ready before cooking for a smoother process.
• Skipping the parsley: Parsley adds freshness and brightness to the dish. Don’t skip it; instead, fold it in just before serving for added flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It will maintain quality for about 2 months.

Reheating Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips):

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

You can use fresh peas, but they will require a slightly longer cooking time. Just cook them until tender before adding the pears.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add nuts for crunch or substitute chicken broth for added depth of flavor.

What can I serve with Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

This dish pairs well with roasted meats or as part of a larger Thanksgiving dinner spread.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all ingredients ahead of time and cook just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is not only simple but also versatile enough to adapt to any festive table. With its combination of flavors from sweet pears, savory turkey, and zesty lemon, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or spices!