Introduction
Looking for a simple yet elegant side dish to elevate your holiday table? This easy creamy mashed peas recipe is the best Thanksgiving side dish you can make. It combines sweet peas with a rich, velvety texture and savory pancetta for a comforting flavor everyone will love. For more festive vegetable inspiration, try this Southern Squash Casserole Recipe or this bright Lemony Parmesan Kale Salad Recipe.
Ingredients
This Thanksgiving peas side dish is a vibrant medley of savory pancetta, sweet peas and pear, and a bright, zesty lemon dressing that comes together with minimal fuss.
- ½ pound pancetta (cut into small dice)
- 3 medium shallots (halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced))
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 16 ounces frozen peas
- 1 pear
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest))
- ½ cup roughly chopped parsley
- freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Timing
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
Context: This Thanksgiving peas side dish comes together in about 15 minutes, making it roughly 30% faster than many traditional holiday side recipes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Prep Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients: fresh or frozen peas, shallots, garlic, fresh mint, and a lemon. Finely dice the shallots and mince the garlic. Zest the lemon and chop the mint, keeping them separate for later.
Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter. Once hot, add the diced shallots and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften and become translucent. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3 — Cook the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the pan with the shallots. Cook for just 30-60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can turn bitter.
Step 4 — Add the Peas
Pour the peas into the skillet. If using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them first. Stir to coat the peas in the aromatic oil and shallot mixture. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are heated through and tender but still bright green.
Step 5 — Season and Finish
Season the peas generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remove the skillet from the heat. Immediately stir in the fresh lemon zest and most of the chopped mint, reserving a little for garnish.
Step 6 — Adjust and Serve
Give the Thanksgiving peas side dish a final taste. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with the remaining fresh mint. Serve immediately while warm and vibrant.
Nutritional Information
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 280mg |
Note: Estimates are per serving for this Thanksgiving peas side dish and are based on typical ingredients and serving size. Values can vary based on specific brands and preparation.
Healthier Alternatives
- Swap heavy cream for coconut milk — This creates a rich, dairy-free version of the Thanksgiving peas side dish with a subtle tropical note.
- Use turkey or chicken broth instead of vegetable broth — This simple swap adds a deeper, savory protein flavor that complements the holiday meal.
- Replace butter with olive oil or avocado oil — For a dairy-free and heart-healthy fat option that still delivers a silky texture.
- Add crispy pancetta or turkey bacon — Introduces a smoky, salty protein element without overwhelming the peas, perfect for a lower-carb focus.
- Stir in nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan — Offers a cheesy, umami flavor for a dairy-free and gluten-free Thanksgiving peas side dish.
- Use a salt-free seasoning blend — Allows you to control the sodium level while still building complex herb and spice flavors.
- Mix in riced cauliflower with the peas — A great lower-carb alternative that stretches the dish and adds a mild, nutty flavor.
- Garnish with toasted almonds or pepitas — Adds a delightful crunch and healthy fats, keeping the dish gluten-free and dairy-free.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this Thanksgiving peas side dish with classic mains like roast turkey or spatchcock turkey for a complete holiday spread.
- Serve alongside other vibrant sides such as roasted carrots, mashed sweet potatoes, or a crisp green salad to create a balanced and colorful plate.
- This versatile side is perfect for Thanksgiving dinner, but also shines at Christmas, Easter, or as an elegant accompaniment to a Sunday roast.
- For a beautiful presentation, garnish with extra fresh mint, crispy pancetta bits, or a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving.
- Transform leftovers by folding them into morning scrambled eggs or using them as a flavorful base for a quick grain bowl the next day.
- Make it a complete meal by adding a protein like pan-seared salmon or grilled chicken directly on top of a generous serving of these peas.
This Thanksgiving peas side dish is a simple way to add a pop of fresh, herby flavor to your holiday table, complementing richer dishes perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mistake: Using frozen peas straight from the bag without thawing. Fix: Thaw and pat them dry to prevent a watery, diluted Thanksgiving peas side dish.
- Mistake: Overcooking the peas until they turn mushy and lose their vibrant green color. Fix: Add them last and cook just until heated through for a perfect, bright pop.
- Mistake: Skipping the step to sauté aromatics like shallots or garlic. Fix: Gently cook them first to build a flavorful foundation for your peas.
- Mistake: Underseasoning this simple side, leaving it bland. Fix: Season in layers with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like mint or thyme.
- Mistake: Adding heavy cream or butter too early, which can separate or make the dish greasy. Fix: Stir in fresh butter or a splash of cream off the heat for a glossy finish.
- Mistake: Forgetting to add a bright, acidic element for balance. Fix: A squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of champagne vinegar at the end lifts all the flavors.
- Mistake: Not considering texture contrast, resulting in a one-note side. Fix: Stir in toasted pine nuts, crispy pancetta, or breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.
- Mistake: Making it too far in advance, leading to a soggy, sad presentation. Fix: Prepare components ahead but combine and warm this Thanksgiving peas side dish just before serving.
- Mistake: Crowding the pan when cooking, which steams instead of sautés. Fix: Use a wide skillet to allow for quick, even heating and better flavor development.
Storing Tips
- Fridge: Cool the peas completely, then transfer to an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooled peas in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Gently warm the peas in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Ensure the dish reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
Proper storage ensures this Thanksgiving peas side dish retains its vibrant flavor and texture, making your holiday meal prep even easier.
Conclusion
This Thanksgiving peas side dish is a vibrant, flavor-packed addition to your holiday table. The sweet pears and savory pancetta create a perfect balance. I hope you love it! Please leave a comment below and subscribe for more delicious recipes like this Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing Recipe.
Print
Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta)
Ingredients
- ½ pound pancetta (cut into small dice)
- 3 medium shallots (halved and thinly sliced (about 1 cup thinly sliced))
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 16 ounces frozen peas
- 1 pear
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice and 1 teaspoon zest))
- ½ cup roughly chopped parsley
- freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prep the pear. Peel, slice, and small dice the pear. Place it in a small bowl and stir with the lemon juice. Set aside.
- Cook the pancetta. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta and cook until golden brown. Using a slotted spoon, remove the pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate. Drain off some of the rendered fat, leaving about 3 tablespoons in the pan.
- Add the shallots. Add the sliced shallots and cook for about a minute, until softened, then stir in the mustard.
- Add the peas and pears. Add the peas and pears to the pan. Stir for about 5 minutes, until the peas are warmed through.
- Stir in pancetta and parsley. Turn off the heat, then stir in half the pancetta, the parsley, and black pepper.
- Serve. Transfer the peas to a large serving bowl, top with the remaining pancetta, and garnish with lemon zest.
FAQs
Can I make this Thanksgiving peas side dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish a day in advance. Simply cook the recipe, let it cool completely, and store it covered in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh peas?
Frozen peas are an excellent and convenient substitute for fresh peas in this recipe. They often retain their flavor and texture well. Just add them directly from the freezer near the end of the cooking time for your Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
To make a dairy-free version of this Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like olive oil or vegan butter. You can also use a dairy-free cream or a splash of vegetable broth to achieve a creamy consistency.