I love adding a bright, easy vegetable side to the Thanksgiving table, and these peas bring plenty of color and savory flavor without taking up much time. Sweet peas, crisp turkey bacon, and a little lemon make a cozy dish that pairs beautifully with classic holiday mains.
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish
This side dish is quick to prepare, easy to scale for a crowd, and made with ingredients that are simple to find. The peas stay tender and sweet, while turkey bacon, shallot, and garlic add a savory note. A squeeze of lemon at the end keeps every bite fresh and balanced.
Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 pound fresh or frozen peas
- 4 ounces turkey bacon, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 small shallot, finely minced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice, plus more to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
Frozen peas work especially well here, and there is no need to thaw them first. Use vegetable broth to keep the dish meat-free, or swap the turkey bacon for a pinch of smoked paprika if you prefer a simpler version.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish
1. Crisp the turkey bacon
Set a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crisp. Transfer it to a small plate, leaving about a teaspoon of drippings in the pan.
2. Soften the shallot and garlic
Add the butter and shallot to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring, until the shallot is soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Cook the peas
Add the peas, broth, and black pepper. Cover the skillet and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring once, until the peas are hot and tender. Fresh peas may need an extra minute or two.
4. Finish and serve
Stir in the crisp turkey bacon, lemon juice, and parsley. Taste and add salt or more lemon juice as needed. Serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Keep an eye on the peas as they cook. They should be tender and bright green, not soft or dull.
- If your skillet looks dry after cooking the turkey bacon, add a small pat of butter before adding the shallot.
- Season at the end, since turkey bacon and broth can already add salt.
- For a little extra freshness, finish with lemon zest just before serving.
Variations of Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish
Stir in a handful of chopped mint for a cool, herbal twist, or add a spoonful of grated Parmesan for extra savory flavor. For a richer version, replace the broth with a splash of cream. You can also add sliced mushrooms with the shallot or use smoked paprika in place of the turkey bacon.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Thanksgiving Peas Side Dish
Serve these peas alongside roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or a hearty vegetable casserole. They are also lovely with roast chicken or a simple baked fish dinner when you want an easy green side outside the holiday season.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Cool leftovers and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a teaspoon of broth or water, stirring until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions in short intervals, stirring between each one. The peas are best enjoyed freshly cooked, since repeated reheating can make them soft.
Memories Made Around the Table
I like having a bright green dish on the Thanksgiving table among all the rich, comforting sides. This one is easy to make while other dishes finish cooking, and it always feels right at home beside the turkey. A little parsley and lemon make the whole platter look lively, too.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peas?
Yes. Add them straight from the freezer and cook until hot and tender, usually about 3 to 5 minutes.
Can I make this side dish ahead?
You can cook it a few hours ahead and refrigerate it once cooled. Reheat gently in a skillet with a small splash of broth, then add a fresh squeeze of lemon before serving.
What can I use instead of turkey bacon?
Use a pinch of smoked paprika for a savory, smoky note, or leave it out and add a little extra butter and parsley.
How do I keep the peas bright green?
Cook them just until tender and avoid leaving them covered on the heat after they are done. A quick finish with lemon juice also keeps the flavor fresh.
Final Thoughts
This Thanksgiving peas side dish is a simple way to add color, freshness, and savory flavor to a holiday meal. Keep the cooking gentle, finish with lemon, and serve it warm alongside your favorite festive dishes.
Thanksgiving Peas
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh or frozen peas
- 4 ounces turkey bacon finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 shallot small, finely minced
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice plus more to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Set a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crisp. Transfer it to a small plate, leaving about a teaspoon of drippings in the pan.
- Add the butter and shallot to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring, until the shallot is soft. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Add the peas, broth, and black pepper. Cover the skillet and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring once, until the peas are hot and tender. Fresh peas may need an extra minute or two.
- Stir in the crisp turkey bacon, lemon juice, and parsley. Taste and add salt or more lemon juice as needed. Serve warm.