Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is a fun twist on a classic side dish. It combines the sweet pop of fresh peas, the juicy bite of pear, and the crispy, salty goodness of pancetta. The flavors blend perfectly to brighten up the table and add some fresh texture alongside your hearty Thanksgiving feast.
I love making this dish because it mixes familiar ingredients with just enough surprise to keep things interesting. The pancetta crisps up like little flavor bombs, and the pears add a nice, juicy sweetness that balances everything out. I usually cook the peas just until tender to keep their color and snap, which makes the dish feel lively and fresh.
This side pairs beautifully with turkey, mashed potatoes, or any of those classic holiday dishes you look forward to. I like to serve it warm, straight from the pan, so the pancetta stays crisp and the pears stay juicy. It’s one of those dishes I always look forward to during the holidays because it’s simple, tasty, and a little different from the usual sides.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Peas: Fresh peas have the best flavor and crunch, but frozen peas work well too. Just thaw or cook them gently to keep their bright color and snap.
Pear: Use a ripe but firm pear like Bosc or Anjou. They hold up better when cooked and add a nice sweetness. If you can’t find pear, try apple for a similar texture.
Pancetta: Pancetta gives a salty, crispy bite. If you don’t have it, bacon or prosciutto are good substitutes. For a vegetarian option, try smoked tempeh or omit it altogether and add extra herbs.
Butter and Olive Oil: The butter adds richness, and olive oil helps prevent burning. You can swap butter for all oil if you want it dairy-free.
How Do You Cook the Pears and Peas Without Making the Pears Mushy?
The key is to cook the pears gently and keep them just tender, not mushy. Patience is important here:
- Add the pears after the onion and garlic are soft.
- Cook pears over medium-low heat for just 2-3 minutes. You want them warmed and slightly softened but still holding their shape.
- Then add peas and cook briefly until warmed through. Avoid overcooking the peas to keep them bright and crisp.
- Stir gently so the pears don’t break apart.
By keeping the heat moderate and cooking times short, you keep the pears juicy and the peas fresh, creating great texture in every bite.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking pancetta and gently warming peas and pears all in one pan.
- Slotted spoon – helps you remove pancetta easily without too much grease.
- Sharp knife – makes peeling and cutting pears clean and safe.
- Cutting board – provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring gently without mashing the pears.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pancetta for thick-cut bacon for a smoky, familiar flavor.
- Add fresh mint or basil at the end for a bright, herbal note.
- Include toasted pine nuts or almonds for a crunchy texture contrast.
- Use golden or red apples instead of pears for a different sweet touch.
How to Make Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta)?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen green peas
- 1 large ripe pear, peeled, cored, and cut into bite-size pieces
- 4 ounces pancetta, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh thyme leaves or chopped fresh dill (optional), for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. Pancetta crisps up in about 5-7 minutes, then sautéing the onion, garlic, pears, and peas happens quickly, about 10-12 minutes total. It’s a fast, easy side dish ready to complement your Thanksgiving meal in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Crisp the Pancetta:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s crisp and golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. When done, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet and set it on paper towels to drain off excess fat.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium-low. Add the butter and olive oil to the same skillet. Once the butter melts, add the finely chopped onion. Cook, stirring often, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook Pears and Peas:
Add the pear pieces to the skillet. Cook gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly but still hold their shape. Then, stir in the peas. Cook gently, stirring, until the peas are warmed through and tender but bright green, about 3-5 minutes. If you’re using frozen peas, make sure they’re heated thoroughly.
4. Finish and Serve:
Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the crispy pancetta. Transfer the peas, pear, and pancetta mixture to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped dill if you like. Serve warm as a tasty and festive side dish perfect for Thanksgiving.
Can I Use Frozen Peas Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen peas work great! Just thaw them slightly or add them directly to the pan and cook until heated through. They may be a bit softer than fresh peas but still delicious.
What Can I Substitute for Pancetta?
If you don’t have pancetta, bacon or prosciutto are good alternatives. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add a pinch of smoked paprika or smoked salt for extra flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep the peas from drying out.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the peas and pears up to a day in advance. Add the crispy pancetta just before serving to keep it nice and crunchy.
