Peas with Pancetta and Pears is a dish that beautifully marries crispy, salty, and sweet flavors, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing for a festive dinner or simply want to elevate your weeknight meals, this quick and easy recipe deserves a place on your table. The combination of tender peas, savory pancetta, and sweet pears, all brought together with a tangy lemon Dijon mustard, creates a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
Peas with Pancetta and Pears
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen peas Thawed
- 4 oz crispy pancetta Cooked until crispy
- 2 sweet pears Diced
- 2 tbsp lemon Dijon mustard
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Cooking
- In a skillet, cook the pancetta until crispy.
- Add the frozen peas to the skillet and cook until heated through.
- Dice the sweet pears and add them to the mixture.
- Drizzle with lemon Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir everything together until it is glossy and well combined.
- Serve warm as a side dish.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe is truly special for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can whip up a gourmet side dish without the fuss. Plus, it’s a colorful centerpiece on any table, making those holiday gatherings even more inviting.
Peas with Pancetta and Pears is also versatile; it complements various main dishes, making it a fantastic option for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special family dinner. The sweet and savory balance is appealing to both kids and adults, offering flavors that everyone will enjoy.
“This dish blew me away! The sweet pears and crispy pancetta are a match made in heaven. I served it for Thanksgiving, and everyone asked for the recipe.” – Emily, a satisfied home cook
The Cooking Process Explained
To make Peas with Pancetta and Pears, you’ll be working with a couple of simple steps that come together in a flash. Start by frying the pancetta until it reaches a crispy perfection. Then, toss in the frozen peas and let them heat through. Once they are warmed, add diced pears for that perfect touch of sweetness. Finally, drizzle with lemon Dijon mustard for a zesty finish. It’s all about layering flavors and keeping it simple.
What You’ll Need
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients for your creation:
- Frozen peas
- Crispy pancetta
- Sweet pears
- Lemon Dijon mustard
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
If you’re out of pancetta, you can easily substitute it with bacon for a similar crispy and savory flavor. For a vegetarian twist, try using smoked tofu instead, keeping the essence of the dish intact while making it plant-based.
Directions to Follow
- In a skillet, cook the pancetta until crispy.
- Add the frozen peas to the skillet and cook until heated through.
- Dice the sweet pears and add them to the mixture.
- Drizzle with lemon Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir everything together until it is glossy and well combined.
- Serve warm as a Thanksgiving side dish or any time you wish to fill your table with love.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When serving Peas with Pancetta and Pears, think about how to complement its beautiful flavors. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, especially turkey or chicken. You could also consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a rustic touch, serve it in a chic family-style dish that allows guests to help themselves, adding a homely feel to your dining experience.
How to Store
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them properly will ensure they maintain their flavor. Keep Peas with Pancetta and Pears in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for about three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat them on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil to refresh the flavors.
For longer storage, you can freeze the mixture, though the texture of the peas and pears may vary slightly once thawed. To reheat after freezing, allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm thoroughly before serving.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To enhance this dish and ensure a successful outcome, consider these practical tips:
- Use a heavy skillet for even cooking, as it holds heat better and helps achieve that desired crispiness in the pancetta.
- Don’t skip on the lemon Dijon mustard; it adds a crucial tanginess that lifts all the other flavors.
- If you want an extra crunch, toss in some toasted nuts or seeds just before serving.
Creative Twists
While this dish is fantastic as is, you can easily add variations to switch things up:
- For a Mediterranean touch, consider adding some crumbled feta cheese or kalamata olives.
- A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like mint or basil, can add an aromatic layer of flavor.
- Experiment using different types of pears or try swapping them with apples for a tart contrast.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare?
This dish takes approximately 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the pancetta and peas in advance. Just combine them with pears and mustard right before serving to maintain freshness.
Can I substitute the pancetta?
Absolutely! Bacon is a great alternative, and for a vegetarian version, use smoked tofu or tempeh to keep the savory flavors intact.
Follow Me for More Recipes
Love these cozy dishes? For more delightful recipes and culinary inspiration, be sure to follow us on our social media pages! Join our community for tips, tricks, and mouthwatering ideas that will elevate your cooking:
Peas with Pancetta and Pears is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that are sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to give it a try. Happy cooking!