These Thanksgiving peas are a simple, colorful side dish with sweet green peas, smoky turkey bacon, and fresh herbs. I like how quickly they come together, leaving more room in the kitchen schedule for the dishes that need a little extra time.
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Peas
This dish balances the natural sweetness of peas with savory turkey bacon, shallot, and a touch of butter. It takes about 20 minutes to make, uses easy-to-find ingredients, and adds a bright splash of green to a holiday spread. You can prepare it just before serving or gently reheat it when dinner is ready.
Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients & Substitutions
- 4 cups frozen green peas, thawed, or fresh peas
- 4 ounces turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt, or to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice, optional
Fresh or frozen peas both work well. If using frozen peas, thaw and drain them first so the dish does not become watery. You can replace the shallot with a few tablespoons of finely chopped onion, and use olive oil instead of butter if you prefer.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Thanksgiving Peas
1. Crisp the turkey bacon
Set a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crisp at the edges. Transfer it to a plate, leaving about a teaspoon of drippings in the pan. If the pan is dry, add a small splash of oil.
2. Soften the aromatics
Add the butter and shallot to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring, until the shallot softens. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Warm the peas
Stir in the peas and broth. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring gently, until the peas are hot and tender but still hold their shape.
4. Season and serve
Return the turkey bacon to the skillet. Stir in the parsley, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Add lemon juice if you like a fresh, bright finish, taste, adjust the seasoning, and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Cook the turkey bacon until its edges are crisp for the best contrast with tender peas.
- Keep the heat moderate once the peas go into the pan. Cooking them too long can make them soft and dull in color.
- Drain thawed peas well before cooking, especially if they have released moisture.
- Taste before adding all the salt, since the turkey bacon and broth can already be seasoned.
- For a glossy finish, stir in a small extra pat of butter just before serving.
Variations of Thanksgiving Peas
For a little extra texture, add 1/3 cup of toasted sliced almonds just before serving. A handful of thinly sliced mushrooms can be cooked with the shallot for a deeper savory flavor. You can also stir in a tablespoon of cream for a softer, richer finish, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Thanksgiving Peas
Serve these peas alongside roast turkey, baked chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or roasted root vegetables. Their fresh, savory flavor also works well with a hearty lentil loaf or a simple grain pilaf. For a holiday table, finish the peas shortly before dinner and serve them warm in a shallow bowl so the herbs and crisp turkey bacon stay visible.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Cool leftovers and transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water, stirring until hot. You can also microwave a portion in short intervals, stirring between each one. Avoid prolonged reheating, which can make the peas mushy.
Memories Made Around the Table
I love the little dishes that bring a holiday plate together without asking for much attention. This is one I can stir together while everyone gathers around the table, and the bright peas always make the meal feel a bit more complete. I often set out a small bowl of extra herbs nearby so everyone can add a fresh finish to their serving.
FAQs
Can I use canned peas?
Yes. Drain and rinse canned peas well, then add them near the end of cooking and warm them gently for 2 to 3 minutes. They are softer than fresh or frozen peas, so stir carefully.
Can I make Thanksgiving peas ahead of time?
You can cook the turkey bacon and chop the shallot and herbs ahead. For the freshest color and texture, cook the peas shortly before serving. If you make the complete dish ahead, cool and refrigerate it, then reheat gently with a splash of broth.
How can I keep the peas bright green?
Cook them only until tender and hot, and avoid leaving them over heat after they are done. Thawed frozen peas also benefit from being drained before they go into the skillet.
Can I leave out the turkey bacon?
Yes. For a meat-free version, skip it and cook the shallot in butter or olive oil. A pinch of smoked paprika can add a savory, smoky note.
Final Thoughts
These Thanksgiving peas are a quick, dependable side with a pleasing mix of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors. Keep the cooking gentle, season to taste, and serve them warm alongside your favorite holiday dishes.
Thanksgiving Peas
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet
Ingredients
- 4 cups frozen green peas thawed, or fresh peas
- 4 ounces turkey bacon chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 0.25 teaspoon fine salt or to taste
- 0.125 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice optional
Instructions
- Set a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crisp at the edges. Transfer it to a plate, leaving about a teaspoon of drippings in the pan. If the pan is dry, add a small splash of oil.
- Add the butter and shallot to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring, until the shallot softens. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Stir in the peas and broth. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring gently, until the peas are hot and tender but still hold their shape.
- Return the turkey bacon to the skillet. Stir in the parsley, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Add lemon juice if you like a fresh, bright finish, taste, adjust the seasoning, and serve warm.