Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is a holiday side dish that adds elegance and unexpected flavor to your Thanksgiving table. While peas are often seen as a simple vegetable side, this recipe transforms them into something truly memorable. Sweet caramelized pears pair beautifully with savory, salty pancetta, and when tossed with tender green peas, the result is a dish that balances freshness, richness, and a touch of sophistication.
This recipe goes beyond the traditional buttered peas and brings together seasonal flavors that highlight the best of fall. It’s a side dish that not only complements roast turkey and stuffing but also stands out on its own as a conversation piece at your holiday gathering. With its bright colors and festive flavors, these Thanksgiving peas will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups peas (fresh or frozen)
- 4 oz pancetta, diced (or substitute thick-cut bacon)
- 2 ripe pears, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Cook Pancetta
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced pancetta and cook until crisp, about 6–7 minutes.
- Remove pancetta with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving drippings in the skillet.
Step 2: Caramelize Pears
- Add butter to the skillet with pancetta drippings.
- Stir in diced pears and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and lightly caramelized.
- Remove pears and set aside.
Step 3: Cook Aromatics
- In the same skillet, sauté shallot and garlic for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Add Peas
- Stir in peas and cook for 4–5 minutes until heated through and bright green.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Return pears and pancetta to the skillet, tossing everything together.
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle with shaved Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese before serving.
- Cranberry Addition: Toss in dried cranberries for extra holiday flair.
- Vegan Version: Omit pancetta, double the pears, and use olive oil instead of butter.
Cooking Notes
- Frozen peas are convenient and taste great—no need to thaw before cooking.
- Choose pears that are ripe but firm so they caramelize without turning mushy.
- Pancetta adds savory depth, but bacon works well if pancetta isn’t available.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with roast turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes for a balanced Thanksgiving plate.
- Serve alongside roasted chicken or pork for a non-holiday dinner.
- Add to a holiday buffet as a colorful, gourmet vegetable side.
Tips
- Use a wide skillet so ingredients caramelize evenly.
- Keep pancetta crisp by adding it back just before serving.
- Make the dish ahead by prepping pears and pancetta separately, then reheating with peas before serving.
- Garnish with extra herbs for a festive touch.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, 6 servings)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 7g
- Sodium: 380mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I use canned peas?
- Not recommended—they’re too soft. Fresh or frozen work best.
Q2: What pears are best for this recipe?
- Bosc or Anjou pears hold their shape best when cooked.
Q3: Can I make Thanksgiving peas ahead of time?
- Yes, cook peas and pears, refrigerate, and reheat with pancetta before serving.
Q4: Can I substitute the pancetta?
- Yes, use bacon or prosciutto. For vegetarian, omit pancetta and add extra herbs.
Q5: Can I serve this for Christmas too?
- Absolutely. The colors and flavors make it perfect for any holiday meal.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving peas with pear and pancetta is a side dish that takes a humble vegetable and turns it into a gourmet centerpiece. With sweet caramelized pears, crispy pancetta, and tender peas, this recipe balances flavors and textures beautifully. It’s easy to make, festive in presentation, and versatile enough to complement a wide range of holiday dishes. Serve it once, and it may just become your family’s new favorite Thanksgiving tradition.