Thanksgiving is a time for gathering around the table, surrounded by family, friends, and of course, an abundance of delicious food. One dish that often gets overlooked in favor of turkey and stuffing is Thanksgiving peas. perfect Thanksgiving dessert These little green gems bring a burst of color and sweetness that can make any plate pop with flavor. pair with savory stuffing. For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving pecan pie recipe recipe.
As I recall my childhood Thanksgivings, I fondly remember those bright green peas sitting next to the turkey, like tiny emeralds waiting to be discovered amidst the feast. They have a way of evoking nostalgia while still being the unsung hero of every holiday meal. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises not only to brighten your plate but also your holiday spirit! For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving crescent ring recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Thanksgiving peas are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy holiday cooks
- Their sweet flavor balances out savory dishes beautifully
- The vibrant green color adds visual appeal to your festive spread
- Plus, they are versatile enough to pair with any main course or side dish
Nothing quite compares to the look on my family’s faces when I bring out my Thanksgiving peas—it’s a mix of surprise and delight!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Green Peas: Opt for sweet, fresh peas for the best flavor; frozen peas work beautifully if fresh ones aren’t available.
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Butter: A generous knob of unsalted butter adds richness; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
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Garlic: Minced garlic gives these peas a fragrant kick; use fresh cloves for maximum impact.
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Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings enhance the flavors; season generously but taste as you go.
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Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon zest brightens up the dish; it’s an absolute must for that zingy finish!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by measuring out all your ingredients—this makes cooking smoother later on. Rinse fresh peas under cold water if using them instead of frozen.
Sauté the Garlic: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt your butter until it bubbles invitingly. Add minced garlic and sauté until it’s golden and fragrant.
Add the Peas: Toss in the fresh or frozen peas into the skillet. Stir them gently so they get coated in buttery goodness and cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
Seasoning Time!: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the peas and stir well. Taste test at this point—you want just enough seasoning to enhance their natural sweetness.
Finish with Lemon Zest: Off the heat, add freshly grated lemon zest into your pea mixture. This step elevates the dish from simple sideshow act to star performer on your Thanksgiving table!
Enjoy these Thanksgiving peas warm alongside your turkey or as a colorful addition to any meal throughout the holiday season. Your family will be thanking you for these little delights!
You Must Know
- Thanksgiving Peas are not just a side dish; they are a celebration of flavor and texture
- The bright green color adds vibrancy to your holiday table and the sweet crunch makes them irresistible
- Prepare to impress your guests with this simple yet delightful recipe!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by blanching the peas for two minutes to preserve their vibrant color and crunch, then sauté them with garlic. This method ensures that they retain their natural sweetness while absorbing the flavors beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding crispy bacon or toasted almonds for extra flavor and texture. You can also mix in fresh herbs like mint or dill for a refreshing twist that elevates your Thanksgiving Peas. festive pumpkin cookies unique pumpkin pie twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover peas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain their crunchy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked peas, avoid overcooking by keeping an eye on cooking time
- Fresh peas shine brightly, but frozen ones work well too
- A touch of lemon juice at the end can brighten flavors significantly!
Sharing Thanksgiving dinner always brings me joy, especially when friends rave about my Thanksgiving Peas. Their surprised faces when they realize it’s just peas is priceless!
FAQ
Can I use frozen peas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen peas work great and save time during meal prep.
What seasonings pair well with Thanksgiving Peas?
Garlic, lemon zest, and fresh herbs enhance their natural sweetness beautifully.
How do I keep my peas bright green?
Blanch them quickly in boiling water before sautéing to maintain color and texture.
Thanksgiving Peas
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Thanksgiving peas are a delightful side dish that adds a pop of color and sweetness to your holiday table. This easy-to-make recipe features fresh green peas sautéed with garlic and brightened with lemon zest, creating a perfect complement to your Thanksgiving feast. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your holiday meal and impress your guests with this vibrant and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh green peas (or frozen)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt (to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (to taste)
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse fresh peas under cold water; if using frozen, no need to rinse.
- Sauté Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic, cooking until golden and fragrant.
- Add Peas: Stir in the peas, gently coating them in the butter. Cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Season: Sprinkle with salt and pepper, stirring well. Taste for seasoning.
- Finish: Remove from heat and mix in lemon zest for a zesty finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup (75g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
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