Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

This Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) recipe is a delightful addition to your holiday feast! Combining the sweetness of pears with the savory crunch of turkey strips and fresh peas, this dish brings a unique flavor profile to your dinner table. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive occasion, it’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious side dish in about 30 minutes.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of sweet pears and savory turkey strips offers a delightful taste that complements any meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with peas and fresh parsley, this recipe adds vitamins and minerals to your holiday spread.
• Versatile Dish: While perfect for Thanksgiving, it can also accompany any family gathering or weeknight dinner.
• Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors of green peas, golden turkey, and bright pear make for an eye-catching presentation.

Tools and Preparation

To create this tasty side dish, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This allows for even cooking of the turkey strips and ensures all ingredients blend well together.
• Slotted spoon: Useful for removing the cooked turkey without excess fat, keeping your dish light and flavorful.
• Cutting board & sharp knife: Essential for safely prepping your ingredients, making chopping quick and efficient.

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Ingredients

For the Turkey Strips

• ½ pound turkey strips (cut into small dice)

For the Vegetables

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

For the Fruity Touch

• 1 pear
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest))

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 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 Dijon mustard.

Step 4: Add the Peas and Pears

• Add the 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 freshly ground 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.

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

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) can be a delightful addition to your holiday table. The combination of sweet pears and savory turkey creates a unique flavor that pairs well with various dishes.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve it warm as a standalone dish to highlight its flavors. Its bright colors make it visually appealing.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Spoon the peas mixture over cooked rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. This adds texture and makes it more filling.

With a Lemon Wedge

• Add a lemon wedge on the side for an extra zing. A splash of fresh lemon juice enhances the dish’s brightness.

Garnished with Extra Parsley

• Top with additional parsley before serving for added freshness. This not only enhances the look but also the flavor profile.

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

To get the best results from your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shallots and ripe pears will enhance the overall taste of the dish, making it more flavorful.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Personalizing the seasoning can elevate the flavors to your preference.

• Cook turkey until crispy: Make sure the turkey strips are golden brown for added crunch. This contrast in texture will make each bite enjoyable.

• Don’t overcook peas: Cook peas just until heated through to retain their vibrant color and nutrients. Overcooking can lead to mushy peas, diminishing their appeal.

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

Pairing side dishes with Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) can enhance your holiday meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the savory notes of peas elegantly.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft textures of the peas.

3. Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed in maple syrup provide a wonderful balance between sweet and savory flavors on your plate.

4. Stuffing with Herbs: A herbed stuffing brings in rustic flavors, enhancing the overall Thanksgiving experience alongside your peas.

5. Cranberry Sauce: Tart cranberry sauce offers a refreshing contrast, balancing out the richness of other dishes at the table.

6. Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins serve as an excellent vehicle for soaking up juices from other dishes, adding warmth to your meal.

7. Green Bean Casserole: A classic side dish that combines creamy mushroom sauce with crisp green beans, perfect for sharing festive flavors.

8. Sweet Potato Casserole: Topped with marshmallows or pecans, this sweet dish adds a deliciously sticky sweetness that pairs well with savory items like Thanksgiving Peas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not prepping ingredients first: Failing to chop or prepare ingredients before cooking can lead to uneven cooking times. Always have everything ready to go.
• Overcooking the turkey strips: Cooking the turkey too long can make it tough. Monitor closely and remove once golden brown for optimal texture.
• Ignoring the seasoning: Skipping salt or pepper can result in bland flavors. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
• Using unripe pears: Unripe pears may not provide the sweetness needed for balance. Choose ripe pears for the best flavor and texture.
• Neglecting to stir properly: Not stirring the mixture can cause uneven heating. Stir regularly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and heated evenly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 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, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) that might help you during preparation.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh peas can be used but will require slightly longer cooking time. Make sure they are tender before mixing with other ingredients.

What other fruits can I add?

You can experiment with other fruits such as apples or cranberries for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they complement the dish’s sweetness.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, omit the turkey strips and replace them with plant-based protein options like chickpeas or tofu.

Can I prepare Thanksgiving Peas ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep most of the ingredients in advance. Simply cook and combine them shortly before serving.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a delightful side dish that adds both color and flavor to your holiday table. Its versatility allows you to mix in your favorite flavors or seasonal ingredients easily. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe according to your preferences!