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Thanksgiving Peas with Pear and Pancetta

Thanksgiving peas with pear and pancetta are coated in a buttery glaze with sweet green peas, golden pear cubes, and crispy pancetta. The quick skillet method keeps the peas bright while the pear softens for a tender finish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 13 minutes
Total Time 28 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 170
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pancetta
  • 4 oz pancetta Dice small so it crisps evenly.
Butter and aromatics
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 shallot Minced.
Pear and peas
  • 1 pear Dice small so it softens with the peas.
  • 4 cup frozen peas
Glaze and finish
  • 2 tbsp chicken broth Use to loosen the butter and lightly glaze the peas.
  • 1 tbsp parsley Chopped; add at the end.
  • 1 salt and pepper To taste.

Equipment

  • 1 cast iron skillet

Method
 

Crisp the pancetta
  1. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat, add the diced pancetta, and cook until crisp, about 4 to 6 minutes, stirring as needed and then set the pancetta aside.
Cook pear and shallot
  1. Lower the heat to medium-low, add the butter to the skillet, and melt; cook the minced shallot and diced pear for 3 minutes, stirring until glossy and just starting to soften.
Glaze and cook peas
  1. Add the frozen peas and chicken broth, then cook for 5 minutes at a steady simmer, stirring occasionally until the peas are tender and bright green with a light glaze.
Combine and finish
  1. Toss the cooked peas with the reserved pancetta until evenly distributed and warmed through for 1 to 2 minutes.
Season and garnish
  1. Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped parsley; season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.

Notes

Dice the pear small so it softens with the peas. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a skillet until warm. Freezing is not recommended because frozen peas and pear can soften further after thawing. For a dairy-light option, use olive oil in place of butter for a lighter glaze while keeping the same cooking steps.