Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

Name: Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Turkey Strips
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ pound turkey strips; 3 medium shallots; 16 ounces frozen peas; 1 pear; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); ½ cup parsley; Freshly ground black pepper

Published: September 19, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday cooking.
Flavorful Combination: The sweet pears paired with savory turkey and zesty lemon bring a burst of flavor to your meal.
Versatile Side Dish: While perfect for Thanksgiving, this recipe works well for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive celebrations.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from turkey and fiber from peas, this dish is as healthy as it is delicious.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its vibrant colors and appealing taste, it’s sure to impress your family and guests alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Proper preparation will ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Slotted spoon
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the turkey strips evenly without overcrowding.
Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing the turkey strips without excess fat, keeping your dish light.
Cutting board: A sturdy surface ensures safe and efficient slicing of ingredients like shallots and pears.

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)
16 ounces frozen peas
1 pear

For Flavoring

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
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 pan.
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, parsley, and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the peas mixture to a large serving bowl.
Top with remaining turkey strips and garnish with lemon zest.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) as an unforgettable side dish that adds charm to your holiday feast!

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

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a delightful side dish that brings flavors together beautifully. Here are some creative suggestions for serving this festive dish.

Classic Thanksgiving Platter

Serve alongside traditional Thanksgiving favorites like mashed potatoes and stuffing for a wholesome meal.

Family Style

Place the peas in a large bowl at the center of the table, allowing guests to serve themselves. This promotes sharing and adds to the festive atmosphere.

Garnished Delight

Top the dish with extra lemon zest or parsley for a pop of color and flavor, enhancing its visual appeal.

Pair with Bread

Serve with warm dinner rolls or crusty bread to soak up any savory juices from the peas and turkey strips.

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

To elevate your Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), consider these helpful tips for perfecting this dish.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Choose fresh pears and herbs for better flavor. Fresh ingredients can transform your dish from good to great.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the amount of black pepper or lemon juice according to your preference for a well-balanced taste.
Cook Turkey Strips Properly: Ensure turkey strips are cooked until golden brown. Proper cooking enhances texture and flavor in the final dish.
Keep Peas Bright Green: Avoid overcooking the peas; they should remain bright green. This not only looks appealing but also retains nutrients.

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

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

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the savory turkey flavors while adding vibrant color to your plate.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting texture that pairs perfectly with the crunch of turkey strips.
Green Bean Almondine: The crispness of green beans accented with toasted almonds adds a delightful crunch that contrasts well with peas.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce provides a bright contrast to the savory elements of your meal, enhancing overall flavor balance.
Stuffed Acorn Squash: The sweet stuffing complements the pears in your peas, creating harmony on your table while offering unique textures.
Cornbread Muffins: Light, fluffy cornbread muffins bring a slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with savory dishes, making them an ideal addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips), it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can enhance the dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the lemon juice: Not using lemon juice on the pears can lead to browning and loss of flavor. Always toss diced pears with lemon juice right after cutting.
Overcooking the turkey strips: Cooking turkey strips for too long can make them tough. Aim for a golden brown color and remove them promptly from the skillet.
Ignoring shallot cooking time: Cooking shallots for too short a time can leave them raw. Make sure they soften before adding mustard; about one minute should suffice.
Using frozen peas without defrosting: Placing frozen peas directly into the skillet can cool down the pan. Let them thaw slightly for even cooking.
Not seasoning adequately: Forgetting to add black pepper may result in bland flavors. Taste as you go, and adjust seasoning accordingly.
Skipping garnishes: Not garnishing with lemon zest or parsley can make your dish look plain. Add these toppings just before serving for a fresh touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

Place cooled leftovers in freezer-safe bags or containers.
Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of meat instead of turkey?

Yes, you can substitute chicken or lamb strips if preferred. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the type of meat used.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, replace turkey with plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh, and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep all ingredients and store them separately. Cook just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

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

Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or other fruits like apples for added sweetness!

How should I serve Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips)?

Serve this dish warm as a side alongside your favorite main courses during Thanksgiving dinner or any festive gathering!

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and turkey strips) is a delightful side dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors while being incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding different proteins or veggies according to your taste preferences. Enjoy bringing this festive dish to your table!

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