As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with delightful aromas and flavors that dance in the air. One dish that always brings a smile to my face is my Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear. This vibrant side dish might seem like a seasonal secret, but it’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy holiday gatherings.
Picture this: the salty crunch of crispy pancetta mingling with the sweetness of ripe pears, all nestled among fresh green peas. It’s not just a feast for the eyes; the combination creates a harmonious blend of flavors that will have your loved ones asking for seconds. And with just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy more time celebrating and less time slaving away in the kitchen.
Join me as we explore the joy of bringing this festive dish to your table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress, this recipe is sure to add a special touch to your Christmas dinner.
Why You'll Love This Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear
- This Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones during the busy holiday season.
- The delightful combination of crispy pancetta and sweet pears elevates the flavor profile, making it a truly memorable side dish.
- Its vibrant colors and textures not only make it a feast for the taste buds but also a visually appealing addition to your festive table.
- Plus, in just 25 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for your secret ingredient!
Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear Ingredients
For the Dish
- Fresh green peas – These are the star of the dish, providing a sweet, fresh burst in every bite.
- High-quality pancetta – Opt for a good pancetta to ensure it crisps nicely and adds a savory depth to the flavors.
- Ripe pears – Choose juicy pears for a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the salty pancetta.
- Unsalted butter – Used to sauté, adding richness without overpowering the dish’s taste.
- Small shallot – Sautéing shallots adds a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste experience.
For Seasoning
- Salt – A pinch balances the sweetness and complements the pancetta.
- Pepper – Freshly cracked black pepper adds a gentle kick to the dish.
- Fresh thyme or sage – Either herb lends a fragrant note that enhances the festive feel of the recipe.
- Lemon juice – A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.
With these Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating a festive side dish that will leave your guests raving!
How to Make Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear
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Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow it to bubble gently, then add the diced pancetta, sautéing until it’s crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. This base layer of flavor is essential!
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Sauté the chopped shallots until they turn translucent, roughly 2-3 minutes. This will infuse the dish with a lovely, aromatic sweetness that complements the pancetta perfectly.
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Stir in the diced pears and fresh green peas. Cook everything together for an additional 4-5 minutes, just until the peas are bright and warm, and the pears soften slightly, releasing their sweet juices.
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Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of thyme or sage. Add the lemon juice last, stirring to combine everything beautifully. This step enhances the lovely medley of flavors!
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Serve warm on a festive platter, inviting your loved ones to indulge in this delightful side dish. The vibrant colors will surely make your table shine!
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear
Fridge: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, the vibrant flavors of your Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear will stay fresh and delicious.
Freezer: Although fresh peas are best enjoyed right away, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Enjoy the flavors just like you did on the first day!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prep the pancetta and shallots up to 3 days ahead by cooking them as directed, then refrigerating them in an airtight container. The fresh peas and pears can be prepped right before serving to maintain their vibrant color and taste. When you’re ready to finish the dish, simply sauté the cooked pancetta and shallots in a skillet to warm them, then stir in the peas and pears for about 4-5 minutes. This ensures a delightful texture with all the flavors just as delicious as if made fresh!
Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this festive dish and discover new flavors!
- Vegetarian: Replace pancetta with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for a savory twist that keeps the essence of the dish.
- Fruit Medley: Add diced apples or cranberries to the mix for extra sweetness and a pop of color.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in toasted pecans or walnuts just before serving for an extra layer of texture and flavor that complements the pears beautifully.
- Herb Swaps: Experiment with dill or rosemary instead of thyme or sage for a unique aromatic profile that suits your palate.
- Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that elevates the overall taste experience.
- Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of crème fraîche or goat cheese while cooking for a rich, creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the pears.
- Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest into the mix for an added citrusy brightness that enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- Savory Roots: Add diced roasted carrots or parsnips for a heartier flavor and a beautiful array of colors, perfect for festive tables.
What to Serve with Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear?
Elevate your holiday meal with scrumptious sides that complement the delightful flavors of this festive dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture provides a rich contrast to the crunchy pancetta and sweet pears. Perfectly smooth, these potatoes also soak up any flavorful juices on the plate.
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Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots: Their sweetness and tender bite balance beautifully with the saltiness of the pancetta, adding a vibrant color to your festive spread. When roasted, they develop caramelized edges that enhance their natural flavor.
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Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: The tangy sweetness of balsamic reduces beautifully, complimenting the Earthiness of the peas while providing a lovely crunch. Plus, they add a lovely depth and a beautiful caramelization.
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Quinoa Salad with Cranberries: This refreshing salad introduces a nutty texture and a hint of sweetness, perfectly matching the dish’s rich flavors. The pop of berries brightens every bite and adds a festive flair.
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Herbed Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm rolls are the ultimate comfort food that can be slathered with butter, soaking up all the lovely flavors from your Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear. They make every meal feel complete.
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Sparkling Cider: A glass of bubbly not only refreshes but also enhances the overall dining experience, making for a joyous festive toast. Its crispness pairs well with the savory details of the dish and adds a celebratory touch.
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Chocolate Peppermint Bark: For dessert, this sweet treat rounds out your meal with a delightful minty flavor that contrasts with the savory elements. Its rich chocolate base will satisfy any sweet tooth, providing a festive end to the celebration.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear, always use fresh green peas for the best flavor and texture.
- Avoid overcooking the pancetta, as it can turn chewy rather than crispy; watch closely while sautéing.
- Make sure your pears are ripe but firm to hold their shape during cooking while still providing sweetness.
- As a general rule, add the lemon juice just before serving to keep its bright flavor intact.
Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best fresh green peas?
Absolutely! Look for bright green peas that feel firm and plump. Avoid any that are dull or shriveled, as they may be past their prime. If you’re using frozen peas, make sure they are bright in color and have no ice crystals, which indicates they may have thawed and refrozen.
How should I store leftovers of Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply warm them gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the flavors!
Can I freeze Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear?
Certainly! While fresh peas are best enjoyed right away, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. After cooking, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on low heat until warmed through.
What if my pancetta doesn’t crisp up?
Great question! If your pancetta isn’t crisping up, ensure your skillet is heated adequately before adding it. It needs space, so don’t crowd the pan. Also, give it enough time to render its fat and become crispy — around 5-7 minutes should do it. If still chewy, you might need a little more time or higher heat.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! Since this recipe contains pancetta, which is meat-based, it is not suitable for vegetarians or those with pork allergies. Gluten-free folks can enjoy this dish, but always check other ingredients you may add, like broth or specific seasoning mixes, for any hidden gluten.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Very much so! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon for a lighter or vegetarian option. In place of pears, apples can add a similar sweetness to the dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly according to the ingredient’s texture.
Christmas Peas with Pancetta and Pear
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Allow it to bubble gently, then add the diced pancetta, sautéing until it's crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté the chopped shallots until they turn translucent, roughly 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the diced pears and fresh green peas. Cook everything together for an additional 4-5 minutes, just until the peas are bright and warm.
- Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of thyme or sage. Add the lemon juice last, stirring to combine everything beautifully.
- Serve warm on a festive platter, inviting your loved ones to indulge in this delightful side dish.
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