Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is a sweet and salty side dish that’s perfect for the holiday table. It features tender green peas mixed with juicy, slightly crisp pear chunks and crispy bits of savory pancetta. The combination brings a lovely contrast of textures and flavors that makes it stand out from your usual veggie sides.
I love making this dish because it feels both elegant and simple at the same time. The pancetta adds a nice smoky crunch, while the pears bring a fresh, natural sweetness that brightens everything up. It’s an easy way to add some color and excitement to the meal, and honestly, it always gets compliments from guests who aren’t even huge pea fans!
My favorite way to serve these Thanksgiving Peas is straight from the pan, warm and ready to eat alongside turkey and stuffing. It’s one of those dishes I look forward to every year because it’s a little unexpected but totally comforting. Plus, it’s a great choice if you want to add a touch of something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peas: Fresh peas are best for their sweet flavor, but frozen peas work well too and save prep time. Just thaw and drain them well to avoid excess water in the dish.
Pancetta: Pancetta adds a nice salty crunch. If you can’t find it, bacon or smoked ham are good substitutes. For a vegetarian version, try crispy fried mushrooms or smoked tofu.
Pear: Choose a ripe but firm pear so it softens slightly but keeps its shape. Anju or Bartlett pears work nicely. If unavailable, apples can be a good alternative, but opt for sweet varieties.
Rosemary: Rosemary gives a lovely earthy aroma. Fresh is best, but dried works too. If you don’t have rosemary, thyme or sage can add a nice herbal touch instead.
How Do I Get the Pear Pieces Just Right—Soft but Not Mushy?
The pears should be tender yet still hold their shape. Here’s how:
- Peel, core, and dice the pear into small, evenly sized pieces for even cooking.
- Add the pears after sautéing the onions and garlic, letting them cook gently over medium heat.
- Cook for just 2-3 minutes — this softens them without turning mushy.
- Keep an eye on the pears to avoid overcooking; they should be slightly tender and juicy but still distinct in the dish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking pancetta and peas evenly in one pan.
- Slotted spoon – helps you remove crispy pancetta without the fat.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for easily dicing the pear, onion, and pancetta.
- Measuring spoons – to get the right amount of butter and rosemary.
- Colander – useful if you blanch fresh peas or need to drain frozen ones.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use crispy bacon instead of pancetta for a familiar smoky taste that’s easy to find.
- Add toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a crunchy texture contrast and nutty flavor.
- Stir in fresh mint leaves at the end for a bright, refreshing twist.
- Substitute pears with diced apples for a similar sweetness with a slightly tart edge.
Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb fresh or frozen green peas
- 6 oz pancetta, diced
- 1 ripe pear, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. If you blanch fresh peas, add a few extra minutes for that step. Overall, it’s a quick and easy side dish perfect for busy holiday cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peas:
If you have fresh peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender, then drain and set aside. If using frozen peas, simply thaw and drain any extra water.
2. Cook the Pancetta:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the diced pancetta. Cook until the pancetta is crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the pancetta, leaving the flavorful fat in the pan.
3. Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Pear:
Add the butter to the pancetta fat in the skillet and let it melt. Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Then stir in the diced pear pieces and cook gently for 2-3 minutes. The pear should soften but still keep its shape.
4. Combine Peas and Herbs:
Add the peas and chopped rosemary to the skillet, stirring well to mix everything together. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.
5. Finish the Dish:
Return the crispy pancetta to the pan and toss to combine. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Thanksgiving Peas warm as a sweet, savory, and colorful side alongside turkey and other holiday favorites. It’s a fresh, easy side that adds a lovely pop of flavor to your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Peas Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen peas work great and save time. Just thaw and drain any excess water before cooking to keep the dish from getting watery.
What Can I Substitute for Pancetta?
If you don’t have pancetta, bacon or smoked ham are tasty alternatives. For a vegetarian option, try crispy mushrooms or smoked tempeh for a savory bite.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the peas tender and pancetta crispy.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead. Just reheat gently before serving to refresh the flavors. Adding the pear right before serving keeps it from getting too soft.
