Introduction

This easy creamy mashed peas recipe is the perfect Thanksgiving side dish, offering a delightful twist on tradition. Sweet peas are blended with caramelized pears and savory pancetta for a rich, comforting flavor that complements any holiday table. For more festive vegetable inspiration, try this Christmas Salad With Honey Mustard Dressing Recipe or a classic Southern Squash Casserole Recipe.

Ingredients

This Thanksgiving peas side dish is a vibrant medley of savory pancetta, sweet peas and pear, and bright lemon, creating a fresh and flavorful complement to your holiday table.

• 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	10 minutes
Cook Time	5 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: frozen peas, butter, shallots, fresh mint, and lemon zest. This ensures a smooth cooking process. Finely chop the shallots and mint, and zest the lemon before you begin cooking.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until they are soft and fragrant, but not browned. This builds the foundational flavor for your Thanksgiving peas side dish.

Step 3 — Cook the Peas

Add the frozen peas directly to the skillet with the shallots. There’s no need to thaw them first. Stir to coat the peas in the butter and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, just until the peas are heated through and bright green.

Tip: Avoid overcooking, as peas can quickly become mushy. They should be tender yet still have a slight pop when bitten.

Step 4 — Add Fresh Herbs and Zest

Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the freshly chopped mint and lemon zest. The residual heat will gently wilt the mint and release the citrus oils, creating a vibrant, fresh flavor that elevates this simple side.

Step 5 — Season and Adjust

Season the dish generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning. For a brighter note, you can add a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Step 6 — Serve Immediately

Transfer your Thanksgiving peas to a serving bowl. This side dish is best enjoyed right away while the peas are perfectly tender and the flavors are at their peak. It makes a colorful and refreshing complement to the richer items on your holiday table.

Nutritional Information

Calories	120
Protein	5g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	3g
Fiber	6g
Sodium	220mg

Note: These values are estimates for one serving of this Thanksgiving peas side dish, based on typical ingredients and serving size. Actual nutrition can vary depending on specific brands and preparation.

Healthier Alternatives

This classic Thanksgiving peas side dish is wonderfully adaptable. Here are several ingredient swaps to tailor it to different dietary needs and flavor preferences.

• Swap heavy cream for coconut milk — Creates a rich, dairy-free version with a subtle tropical note.
• Swap bacon for turkey bacon or pancetta — Offers a leaner protein alternative while maintaining a savory, salty depth.
• Swap regular peas for fresh or frozen sugar snap peas — Adds a delightful crunch and a slightly sweeter, lower-carb option.
• Swap butter for olive oil or ghee — Provides a dairy-free or clarified fat alternative with a distinct, savory flavor.
• Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 blend or arrowroot powder — Thickens the sauce effectively for a gluten-free Thanksgiving peas side dish.
• Swap regular chicken broth for low-sodium broth — Allows for better control over the salt level, perfect for a low-sodium diet.
• Swap pearl onions for shallots or leeks — Introduces a more delicate, sweet onion flavor that caramelizes beautifully.
• Swap white wine for vegetable broth — Eliminates alcohol while still deglazing the pan and adding complexity.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this vibrant Thanksgiving peas side dish with classic roasted turkey or a savory herb-crusted prime rib for a beautiful color and flavor contrast on your holiday table.
• Serve it alongside other traditional favorites like creamy mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, and tangy cranberry sauce for a complete and balanced feast.
• This versatile recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner, an elegant Friendsgiving potluck, or as a bright, fresh component on a holiday buffet spread.
• For a stunning presentation, garnish with extra fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving to enhance the aroma and visual appeal.
• Consider serving it in a shallow, wide bowl or a colorful ceramic dish to let the green peas, red onions, and white feta cheese truly pop against your table setting.
• This dish can easily be made ahead; simply prepare the components, combine them cold, and let it sit for an hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully before your meal.

Whether you’re looking for a simple, make-ahead side or a fresh counterpoint to richer dishes, this Thanksgiving peas side dish from Downshiftology is a reliable and delicious choice that complements any holiday menu.

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 color. Fix: Add them last and cook just until heated through for a bright, fresh texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the step to sauté aromatics like shallots or garlic. Fix: Gently cook them first to build a flavorful foundation for your side dish.
• Mistake: Underseasoning, leaving the peas tasting 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 any dairy or fat off the heat at the very end.
• Mistake: Not balancing flavors, resulting in a one-dimensional dish. Fix: Add a splash of lemon juice or zest to brighten the overall flavor profile.
• Mistake: Serving the peas lukewarm as they cool quickly on a busy Thanksgiving table. Fix: Keep them warm in a preheated serving dish or make them just before serving.
• Mistake: Forgetting to garnish, missing an opportunity for visual appeal and texture. Fix: Finish with toasted nuts, crispy pancetta, or fresh herbs for a perfect final touch.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Thanksgiving peas side dish completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled peas in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Always use shallow containers for storage to promote rapid, even cooling and maintain the best quality for your Downshiftology recipe.

Conclusion

This Thanksgiving peas side dish is a simple, elegant way to elevate your holiday table. I hope you love the sweet pear and savory pancetta combo! If you try it, please leave a comment below. For more festive sides, check out our Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing Recipe or Garlic Turmeric Rice Recipe.

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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 peas and combine with the other ingredients, then store covered in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh?

Absolutely. Frozen peas are an excellent and convenient choice for this Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish. They are flash-frozen at peak freshness, so they will deliver great flavor and texture. There’s no need to thaw them; just add them directly to the pan.

How can I add more flavor to this simple side dish?

Enhance this Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish by sautéing shallots or garlic first. You can also finish it with fresh herbs like mint or dill, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a sprinkle of crispy bacon or toasted nuts for extra texture and savory flavor.