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Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta)

A sweet–savory holiday side dish made with tender peas, crisp pancetta, and caramelized pear for an elegant twist on classic Thanksgiving vegetables.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Holiday, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Thanksgiving
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

Pea Base
  • 4 cups frozen peas no need to thaw
Pancetta and Pear Mixture
  • 0.5 cup pancetta diced
  • 1 pear ripe, diced
  • 1 shallot finely minced
  • 2 tbsp butter
Seasoning
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 0.25 tsp salt or to taste
  • 0.5 tsp thyme fresh or dried

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add pancetta. Cook until crisp and golden, about 4–5 minutes.
  2. Add the butter and shallot. Sauté until the shallot becomes tender and fragrant.
  3. Stir in the diced pear and cook for 2–3 minutes until lightly caramelized.
  4. Add the frozen peas directly to the skillet and stir to coat them in the pancetta fat and butter.
  5. Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Continue cooking until peas are heated through, about 5 minutes.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm as a holiday side dish.