Why Make This Recipe
Honey Glazed Carrots and Green Beans are a delicious and easy side dish that can brighten up any meal. The sweet honey glaze complements the fresh vegetables, making them extra tasty. This recipe is perfect for both casual dinners and holiday gatherings. Plus, it’s a healthy way to add colorful veggies to your plate.
How to Make Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
Ingredients:
1 pound fresh carrots: Choose carrots that are firm and brightly colored. You can use whole carrots and chop them into uniform pieces, or buy pre-cut baby carrots for convenience, though whole carrots tend to roast more evenly and offer better flavor.
1 pound fresh green beans: Look for green beans that are vibrant green and snap easily. Avoid beans that are wilted or have brown spots. French green beans (haricot verts) or regular green beans work beautifully in this recipe.
3 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its flavor and health benefits. It helps the vegetables roast and caramelize, enhancing their sweetness.
3 tablespoons honey: Use a good quality honey for the best flavor. Local honey or wildflower honey adds a nuanced sweetness that shines in this dish.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: This adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness of the honey and enhances the overall flavor profile.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic adds a savory depth that compliments the sweetness and acidity perfectly.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb elevates the flavors with its subtle earthy notes. Fresh thyme can also be used if available.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Seasoning is key! Salt enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables, while pepper adds warmth and complexity.
Optional garnishes: Chopped fresh parsley or toasted sesame seeds for added visual appeal and flavor.
Directions:
Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and trim the green beans, snapping off the stem ends. If using whole carrots, peel and cut them into roughly 1-inch thick pieces. If using baby carrots, you can use them whole or halve them if they are very thick.
Make the Honey Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined. This glaze is key for even flavor, so taste and adjust if needed.
Coat the Vegetables: Place the carrots and green beans in a large bowl. Pour the honey glaze over them and toss gently to ensure they’re evenly coated.
Roast the Vegetables: Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they roast well.
Roasting Time and Monitoring: Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the carrots are tender-crisp and the green beans are bright green. Check for doneness starting at 20 minutes.
Achieve Caramelization: For extra caramelization, broil the vegetables for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Rest and Serve: Let the vegetables rest for a minute before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or sesame seeds for added texture, and enjoy this delightful side dish!
How to Serve Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
Serve Honey Glazed Carrots and Green Beans alongside your main dish, like roasted chicken, grilled steak, or fish. This colorful side adds a fresh touch to your meal. You can also serve it at family gatherings or holiday feasts for a lovely presentation.
How to Store Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. They may lose some crispness, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Tips to Make Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
- Make sure all vegetables are cut to the same size for even cooking.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or dill, for a unique taste.
- If you’re short on time, you can use frozen green beans, but fresh is preferred.
Variation
You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes to this dish for added flavor and nutrition. Adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you choose.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other oils instead of olive oil?
A: Yes, you can use other neutral oils like avocado oil if you prefer.
Q: What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
A: You can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a similar result.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and the glaze ahead of time, then roast them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
Equipment
- large skillet
- cutting board
- knife
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb carrots peeled and sliced
- 1 lb green beans trimmed
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp butter
- 0.25 cup water
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare the vegetables by peeling and slicing the carrots, and trimming the ends of the green beans.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sliced carrots and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender.
- Stir in the green beans, water, honey, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Remove the lid and increase heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has mostly evaporated and the vegetables are coated in a honey glaze.
Serving
- Serve the honey-glazed carrots and green beans hot as a delicious side dish.