Thanksgiving Peas Pancetta: 5-Minute Holiday Magic

When Thanksgiving rolls around, we all have those tried-and-true dishes that make an appearance year after year. But if you’re looking to add something a little fresh (and a lot flavorful) to your holiday spread, this Thanksgiving Peas Pancetta might just become your new favorite. It’s cozy, bright, and wonderfully balanced—the kind of side that makes you go back for seconds (and maybe thirds).

Between the salty, crispy pancetta and the sweet bites of pear, this dish takes humble peas and turns them into something truly special. And the best part? It all comes together in about 20 minutes—which means more time to relax, sip some cider, and enjoy the day.

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Peas Pancetta

This recipe checks all the boxes for busy cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal fuss:

• Quick & easy: Ready in 20 minutes, no oven juggling required.
• Festive & fresh: The pear and lemon add a touch of brightness that keeps your Thanksgiving table from feeling too heavy.
• Versatile: Works beautifully with turkey, ham, or even roasted chicken.
• Crowd-pleaser: Crispy pancetta has a way of making everyone at the table smile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Peas: Fresh or frozen both work beautifully. I’m using frozen today—they’re a freezer staple and cook up just as sweet and tender.
• Pancetta: That gorgeous, salty Italian cured pork that crisps up like a dream. It gives this dish a deep, savory flavor. Can’t find pancetta? Bacon works perfectly in a pinch!
• Shallots & Dijon Mustard: Sweet, mild shallots pair with tangy Dijon for a flavor base that makes the peas pop.
• Pear & Fresh Lemon: Pear adds a subtle sweetness that balances the pancetta’s saltiness, while lemon keeps everything bright and lively.
• Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds color and a herby finish. Feel free to swap it for basil, tarragon, or oregano if that’s what you’ve got on hand.

Refer to the recipe card below for precise ingredient measurements.

How To Make Thanksgiving Peas Pancetta

Step 1: Prep the Pear

Peel, slice, and small dice the pear. Toss it in a small bowl with lemon juice to keep it fresh and prevent browning. Set aside while you start the rest of the magic.

Step 2: Crisp the Pancetta

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the pancetta. Cook until golden brown and crispy—your kitchen will start to smell like pure holiday comfort. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the pancetta to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 3 tablespoons of that flavorful fat in the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Shallots

Add the sliced shallots to the pan and cook for about a minute until softened. Stir in the Dijon mustard—it’ll add a little tang that ties everything together.

Step 4: Add the Pears and Peas

Toss in your diced pears and peas, stirring for about 5 minutes until the peas are warmed through and everything looks beautifully coated in that pancetta-infused goodness.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat and stir in half of the crispy pancetta, the parsley, and a sprinkle of black pepper. Transfer everything to a serving bowl, top with the remaining pancetta, and add a little lemon zest for that final pop. Serve warm and watch it disappear!

Mounia’s Cooking Tips

• Pancetta Swap: If pancetta isn’t available, use thick-cut bacon. The flavor will still be deliciously smoky and salty.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the shallots and pears a few hours early to save time. Just toss the pears with lemon juice so they stay pretty.
• Don’t Skip the Lemon: That bit of citrus makes the dish feel fresh and light—a lovely contrast to heavier Thanksgiving classics.
• Want to Go Veggie? Skip the pancetta and add a little butter and smoked paprika for a similar cozy flavor profile.

A Little Kitchen Story

This recipe was born out of one of those classic “Thanksgiving panic moments” when I realized I forgot to make a green veggie. I glanced at my freezer, saw a bag of peas, and thought—why not? A quick raid of the fridge later, I had pancetta, a pear, and a lemon. The result? Magic. My family has asked for it every Thanksgiving since.

FAQs About Thanksgiving Peas Pancetta

Brighten Your Table With Thanksgiving Peas Pancetta

If your Thanksgiving menu needs a little something green, a touch of brightness, or just a side dish that makes people go, “What’s in this? It’s amazing!” —this Thanksgiving Peas Pancetta is it. It’s fast, flavorful, and filled with everything we love about the season: warmth, comfort, and a touch of sweetness.

So, grab that bag of peas, crisp up some pancetta, and let your skillet do the work—you’ve got a holiday to enjoy.

More Delicious Holiday Pairings You’ll Love

Looking to round out your Thanksgiving table with even more cozy, flavorful dishes? Here are some perfect pairings to make your feast unforgettable:

• Add a comforting side of Creamy Scalloped Potatoes for the ultimate creamy, cheesy bite that complements your peas and pancetta beautifully.
• Sweeten your table with Sweet Potato Rounds with Brie, Cranberry, and Pecans —a stunning appetizer that feels festive and fancy without the fuss.
• Keep things traditional with a batch of Slow Cooker Stuffing that practically makes itself while you focus on the main course.
• And for dessert, don’t miss the crowd-favorite Texas Chocolate Pecan Pie —a rich, Southern-style treat that’s the perfect sweet ending to your Thanksgiving feast.

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