I love adding a bright green vegetable to a holiday table, and these Thanksgiving peas are an easy favorite. Sweet peas, crisp turkey bacon, and buttery herbs come together in a side dish that feels special without taking much time.
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Peas
This dish balances the natural sweetness of peas with savory turkey bacon, garlic, and a little lemon. It cooks in one skillet, uses simple ingredients, and is easy to prepare while the rest of your holiday meal comes together.
Thanksgiving Peas Ingredients & Substitutions
- 4 cups frozen peas, thawed, or fresh peas
- 4 ounces turkey bacon, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you prefer. A pinch of smoked paprika can add extra savory flavor, or swap the parsley for fresh thyme.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Thanksgiving Peas
1. Crisp the turkey bacon
Set a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced turkey bacon and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring now and then, until browned and crisp. Transfer it to a plate, leaving about a teaspoon of drippings in the skillet.
2. Soften the shallot and garlic
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, broth, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring gently, until the peas are hot and tender. If using fresh peas, cook them until tender, adding a splash more broth if needed.
4. Finish and serve
Fold in the turkey bacon, lemon juice, and parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning, then serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Thaw frozen peas and pat them dry so they heat quickly without watering down the skillet.
- Keep the peas bright and tender by cooking them just until warmed through.
- Season at the end, since turkey bacon and broth can vary in saltiness.
- For the best texture, crisp the turkey bacon separately and stir it in just before serving.
Variations of Thanksgiving Peas
- Herby peas: Add a teaspoon of chopped fresh thyme or mint with the parsley.
- Creamy peas: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cream or plain Greek yogurt after taking the pan off the heat.
- More vegetables: Add 1/2 cup of diced carrots or sliced mushrooms and cook them with the shallot.
- Extra savory: Add a small pinch of smoked paprika with the garlic.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Thanksgiving Peas
Serve these peas alongside roast chicken or turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and a crisp salad. Their fresh color and gentle sweetness also make a lovely contrast to rich casseroles and gravy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Cool leftovers and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a spoonful of broth or water, stirring just until hot. You can also microwave individual portions in short intervals, stirring between each one.
Memories Made Around the Table
I like bringing a skillet of peas to the table while everyone is settling in and passing the other holiday dishes around. The little pops of green always make the spread feel brighter, and this simple side is one I happily make again when family asks for it.
FAQs
Can I use canned peas?
Yes. Drain them well and warm them gently in the skillet for just 2 to 3 minutes so they do not become mushy.
Can I make Thanksgiving peas ahead?
You can crisp the turkey bacon and chop the shallot and parsley ahead. For the best color and texture, cook the peas shortly before serving.
Can I make this recipe without turkey bacon?
Yes. Leave it out and add a pinch of smoked paprika for a savory note. You may want to add a little extra butter for richness.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Absolutely. Add fresh peas to the skillet and cook until tender, adding a little broth as needed. Cooking time will depend on their size and freshness.
Final Thoughts
These Thanksgiving peas are colorful, comforting, and simple enough to fit into a busy holiday cooking plan. Keep the ingredients handy for an easy side that pairs well with the rest of the feast.
Thanksgiving Peas
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet
Ingredients
- 4 cups peas frozen and thawed, or fresh
- 4 ounces turkey bacon finely diced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 shallot small, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
- 0.125 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Set a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced turkey bacon and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crisp. Transfer it to a plate, leaving about a teaspoon of drippings in the skillet.
- 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, broth, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring gently, until the peas are hot and tender. If using fresh peas, cook until tender, adding a splash more broth if needed.
- Fold in the turkey bacon, lemon juice, and parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning, then serve warm.