Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) dish is a delightful addition to your holiday menu! With its vibrant colors and unique combination of flavors, it’s sure to impress your guests. The sweet pears complement the savory turkey, while the bright lemon and Dijon mustard add a refreshing twist. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive gathering, this dish is both easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few steps, you can whip up this colorful side dish in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of turkey strips, sweet pears, and peas creates a delicious blend of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Side Dish: While perfect for Thanksgiving, this recipe can also be served at family dinners or holiday celebrations throughout the year.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from turkey and fiber from peas, this dish is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant green peas paired with golden turkey and bright pear make for an attractive serving option at any table.

Tools and Preparation

To make Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), having the right tools on hand will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the turkey strips evenly while allowing enough space for the other ingredients.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing cooked items from oil or fat without taking excess liquid along.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like pears and shallots efficiently.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips):

Turkey & Vegetables

• ½ pound turkey strips (cut into small dice)
• 3 medium shallots (halved and thinly sliced, about 1 cup thinly sliced)

Flavor Boosters

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Main Components

• 16 ounces frozen peas
• 1 pear

Fresh Elements

• 1 lemon (zested and juiced; about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest)
• ½ cup roughly chopped parsley

Seasoning

• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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

Follow these simple steps to prepare your 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 the frozen peas and diced pears to the pan. Stir for about 5 minutes until the peas are 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 black pepper.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the pea 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 part of your holiday feast!

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

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) make a delightful addition to your holiday table. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Serve alongside warm crusty bread, such as a baguette or sourdough, to soak up the delicious juices.

As a Salad Base

• Use the peas mixture as a base for a salad. Top with mixed greens and additional herbs for a fresh crunch.

Garnished with Nuts

• Sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts on top for an added texture and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the pears.

Paired with Cheese

• Add a cheese platter alongside, featuring creamy brie or sharp cheddar, which pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of turkey and sweet pears.

On a Festive Platter

• Create an eye-catching platter by layering Thanksgiving Peas in the center and surrounding it with other colorful side dishes for visual appeal.

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

Achieving the ideal taste and texture for your Thanksgiving Peas is easier than you think. Follow these helpful tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh shallots and ripe pears when available; they enhance the overall flavor compared to their frozen or canned counterparts.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! This allows you to adjust black pepper or lemon juice levels according to your preference before serving.

• Cook Turkey Strips Properly: Ensure turkey strips are cooked until golden brown, adding depth of flavor that enhances the final dish.

• Don’t Overcook Peas: Stir in frozen peas at the end of cooking time. Overcooking can lead to mushy peas, so aim for just warmed through.

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

Thanksgiving Peas pair well with a variety of side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a rich pairing that balances the dish’s lightness.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic reduction add a tangy contrast that brightens up your plate.

3. Stuffing: A savory herb stuffing made with bread, celery, and onions provides comforting flavors that enhance your Thanksgiving feast.

4. Cranberry Sauce: Homemade cranberry sauce adds a tart sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory notes of the peas dish.

5. Green Bean Almondine: Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds introduce additional crunch and a nutty flavor profile.

6. Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweetness of this casserole topped with marshmallows provides a delightful balance against the savory Thanksgiving Peas.

7. Caramelized Carrots: Sweet carrots caramelized in honey or maple syrup will bring out natural sugars, creating harmony on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Overcooking the turkey strips: Ensure you cook the turkey just until golden brown. Overcooking can lead to dryness, so monitor closely.
• Neglecting the lemon juice: The lemon juice adds a bright flavor. Don’t skip this step; it balances the sweetness of the pears perfectly.
• Using stale frozen peas: Make sure your frozen peas are fresh. Old peas can lose their flavor and texture, which detracts from your dish.
• Skipping the parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and flavor. Always include it for that extra touch of freshness in your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips).
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your dish before serving. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1 minute at a time) until warmed, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What variations can I try with Thanksgiving Peas?

You can substitute different fruits like apples or even add nuts for crunch. Experiment with spices like thyme or rosemary for added flavor!

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh peas will give an even brighter taste, but be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly since they may require less time than frozen peas.

How do I know when the turkey is cooked properly?

The turkey should be golden brown and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I make Thanksgiving Peas ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything ahead of time and simply reheat when ready to serve, making it perfect for busy holiday gatherings.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) are a delightful side dish that combines sweetness with savory flavors. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile, allowing you to customize ingredients based on your preference. Give it a try this holiday season!