Thanksgiving Peas are not just a side dish; they are the unsung heroes of the holiday table. Imagine vibrant green peas dancing in a buttery glaze, sprinkled with bits of crispy bacon, and garnished with fresh herbs, all while wafting delightful aromas that make your mouth water. These little gems bring a pop of color and flavor that can elevate any Thanksgiving feast.
As I recall my grandmother’s kitchen during the holidays, the laughter and chatter mixed with the delicious scents of her cooking made every moment magical. Thanksgiving Peas were always a favorite, cherished by family members who would eagerly await their arrival on the dinner table. The joy they bring is undeniable, making them the perfect addition to your festive spread.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Thanksgiving Peas are quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones
- Their rich flavor profile combines sweetness and savory notes for a delightful bite
- The bright green color adds visual appeal, making your dinner table look festive
- Perfect as a side dish or tossed into salads for versatility!
I remember one Thanksgiving when my cousin tried to sneak extra peas onto his plate while everyone was distracted by the turkey carving—it was quite the spectacle!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Green Peas: Look for vibrant green peas—frozen works well too if fresh isn’t available.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning.
Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for added texture and flavor; it really makes a difference.
Onion: A yellow onion adds sweetness; sauté until translucent for that perfect base flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses amazing aroma and depth; don’t skimp on this!
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or thyme brighten up flavors; use freshly chopped for best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Thanksgiving Peas
Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients on your countertop. This makes cooking smoother and helps keep things organized during preparation.
Sauté Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook diced bacon until crispy and golden brown—about 5-7 minutes. Enjoy that sizzling sound; it’s music to your ears!
Add Onions and Garlic: Toss in diced onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add minced garlic and stir until fragrant—your kitchen will smell divine.
Add Peas: Stir in fresh or frozen peas into the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until heated through and tender but still vibrant—no mushy peas allowed!
Season and Garnish: Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs before serving. Toss gently to combine everything beautifully, ensuring every pea gets its share of flavor.
Serve Warm: Transfer your glorious Thanksgiving Peas to a serving dish and watch them disappear as guests dive in—this will be the star of your holiday spread!
You Must Know
- Thanksgiving Peas are the unsung heroes of holiday feasts, adding a pop of color and flavor
- Their vibrant green makes every plate look fancy
- Plus, they cook quickly, making them perfect for last-minute side dish stress
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling water seasoned with salt. Add peas and cook for just 3-5 minutes until bright green before draining. This ensures they stay crisp and vibrant.
Add Your Touch
Mix in a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra zing. Adding herbs like mint or dill can also enhance the flavor profile significantly.
Storing & Reheating
Store cooked peas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them gently on the stove to prevent mushiness and maintain their vibrant color.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always taste your peas before serving; this ensures they’re perfectly tender without being mushy
- Fresh peas offer the best flavor, so opt for frozen if fresh isn’t available
- A little butter or olive oil can elevate their taste significantly
The first time I made Thanksgiving Peas, my cousin asked if I’d secretly used magic to make them taste so good. Turns out, it’s just fresh ingredients and a dash of love.
FAQ
What type of peas are best for Thanksgiving Peas?
Fresh or frozen green peas work best for texture and flavor during cooking.
Can I prepare Thanksgiving Peas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep them earlier but reheat just before serving to retain freshness.
What seasonings pair well with Thanksgiving Peas?
Lemon zest, garlic, or fresh herbs like parsley complement their natural sweetness beautifully.
Thanksgiving Peas
Thanksgiving Peas are the festive side dish that brings vibrant color and rich flavor to your holiday table. Imagine fresh green peas sautéed in buttery goodness, topped with crispy bacon and fragrant herbs. This quick and easy recipe adds a delightful crunch to your Thanksgiving feast, making it a must-have for family gatherings. With their sweet-savory profile, these peas are not only visually appealing but also versatile enough to enhance salads or other dishes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen green peas
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy (5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter; sauté the diced onion until translucent (3-4 minutes). Stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add the peas and cook for about 5 minutes until vibrant and tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fold in crispy bacon and fresh herbs before serving warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: - For extra zing, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or grated Parmesan cheese. - If you have fresh herbs like dill or mint on hand, they can further enhance the flavor.
