Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta is a delightful side dish that combines sweet, salty, and fresh flavors in every bite. The tender peas bring a bright pop of green, while the juicy pear adds a touch of natural sweetness and the crispy pancetta gives a wonderful savory crunch. It’s a simple dish that feels special and perfect for holiday dinners.
I love making this dish because it’s one of those recipes that quietly steals the spotlight at the table. The pears balance out the saltiness of the pancetta so nicely, and the peas keep everything feeling light and fresh. Whenever I serve it, people keep coming back for more! My tip is to make sure the pancetta gets nice and crispy—that texture really makes the dish.
This side pairs perfectly with roasted turkey or even a cozy family-style dinner on chilly nights. I often like to serve it warm, so the flavors meld together just right. It’s a great way to add some color and variety to your meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta will be one of those dishes you want to make year after year!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Peas: Fresh peas give the best flavor, but frozen peas work well too. Just thaw them before cooking. You could also try baby peas for a slightly sweeter taste.
Pancetta: This gives great salty crunch. If you can’t find pancetta, bacon or prosciutto are good swaps. For a vegetarian option, use smoked tofu or mushrooms for a savory touch.
Pear: Choose a ripe but firm pear like Bartlett or Anjou. This keeps them from turning mushy during cooking. If pears aren’t available, apples are a nice alternative.
Shallot and Garlic: These are the flavor base. Use regular onions if you don’t have shallots. Fresh garlic adds nice aroma but reduce quantity if using pre-minced garlic.
How Can I Get Crispy Pancetta Without Burning It?
Crisping pancetta just right takes a bit of care. Here’s how I do it:
- Use a cold skillet and add pancetta pieces without oil; their fat will render out slowly.
- Cook over medium heat so the pancetta crisps evenly without burning.
- Stir occasionally to brown all sides.
- Once crisp, transfer pancetta to a paper towel to drain extra fat; this keeps it crunchy.
Leaving the rendered fat in the skillet adds great flavor to sautéing shallots, garlic, and pear. This step brings everything together beautifully.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for crisping pancetta and sautéing the peas and pears evenly.
- Slotted spoon – helps you easily lift out crispy pancetta without the fat.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for slicing pears and chopping pancetta cleanly.
- Colander – useful for draining and rinsing peas and green beans quickly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pancetta for crispy bacon if you want a smokier, familiar flavor.
- Add chopped fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant, earthy note that pairs well with fall meals.
- Include toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor contrast.
- Use diced apples instead of pear for a tart twist that adds brightness.
Thanksgiving Peas (with Pear and Pancetta)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen green peas
- 4 ounces pancetta, diced
- 1 medium ripe pear, cored and sliced (skin on or off, as preferred)
- 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy side that you can make while other dishes are cooking — perfect for busy holiday kitchens!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Peas and Green Beans:
If you’re using fresh peas and green beans, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the peas and green beans for about 2 to 3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain them and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. If you’re using frozen peas, simply rinse them briefly under warm water to thaw.
2. Cook the Pancetta:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is nicely browned and crispy—this usually takes 5 to 7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate, letting the extra fat drain off. Keep the rendered fat in the skillet for added flavor.
3. Sauté Shallot, Garlic, and Pear:
Add the butter to the skillet with the pancetta fat. Once melted, stir in the minced shallot and garlic, cooking until fragrant and soft—about 1 to 2 minutes. Then add the sliced pear and green beans (if using). Cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring carefully, until the pears start to soften but hold their shape.
4. Combine and Finish:
Stir in the peas and cook for another couple of minutes to warm through. Return the crispy pancetta to the skillet and toss everything gently together. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper—remember, the pancetta adds saltiness already, so taste first! Transfer the mixture to a serving dish.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the peas with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm alongside your favorite holiday dishes. This lovely mix of sweet pears, fresh peas, and crispy pancetta is sure to be a hit at your table!
Can I Use Frozen Peas and Green Beans?
Absolutely! Frozen peas and green beans work great. Just thaw the peas by rinsing under warm water and briefly blanch the green beans if using them fresh for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Pancetta?
If you don’t have pancetta, crispy bacon or prosciutto make excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian twist, try smoked mushrooms or tempeh bacon for that savory flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the peas and pancetta in advance. Keep them separate and combine just before serving to maintain that crisp pancetta texture and fresh flavor.
