These honey glazed carrots and green beans are a sweet and colorful side dish! With their crunchy texture and shiny glaze, they look great on any plate.
Honestly, who knew veggies could taste this good? The honey adds a lovely sweetness that makes them hard to resist. I always make extra because they disappear fast! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: Using baby carrots adds sweetness and a nice color. If you can’t find them, regular carrots cut into sticks work well, too. I love mixing different colored carrots for extra visual appeal!
Green Beans: Fresh green beans have the best crunch! If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen green beans; just remember to thaw them first. They might lose some crunch but will still taste great!
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you want a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or coconut oil instead. Both work well and will keep the dish delicious!
Honey: Honey provides a lovely sweetness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, swap in maple syrup or agave nectar. They’ll give a similar flavor without the honey.
How Do I Get the Perfect Glaze on My Vegetables?
The glaze on these honey glazed carrots and green beans is key to their flavor. Here’s how to achieve the perfect finish:
- Start by cooking the vegetables on medium heat to avoid burning the honey.
- After adding the honey and butter, stir gently to coat the veggies fully. This helps create an even glaze.
- Keep the heat moderate; if it’s too high, the glaze may burn before the vegetables are tender. Aim for that sweet spot of caramelization!
- Don’t forget to taste and season! Adjust with salt and pepper for balance and serve immediately for the best texture.
With these tips, you’ll have beautifully glazed veggies that shine on any dinner plate!
How to Make Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Vegetables:
- 1 lb baby carrots (mix of orange and yellow if possible)
- 12 oz fresh green beans, trimmed
For the Glaze:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Seasoning:
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious side dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 5 minutes prepping the veggies and the rest cooking them to that perfect glazed finish. Plus, it’s a quick way to add some gorgeous colors to your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans:
Start by blanching the green beans. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and toss in your green beans. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp. Once done, drain them and quickly transfer them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps them keep that bright green color and crunchy texture. After a few minutes, drain them again and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Carrots:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, toss in the baby carrots. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to start softening and get a nice golden brown color on a few sides. It gives them an extra yummy flavor!
3. Add Garlic and Green Beans:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Then, gently add the blanched green beans back into the skillet. Stir everything together to mix those lovely flavors!
4. Create the Glaze:
Now, lower the heat to medium and add the butter and honey into the pan. Stir gently, ensuring that all the vegetables are nicely coated with the sweet glaze. Let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes. The glaze will start to thicken up, and you want the carrots to be tender but not mushy.
5. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Once you’ve got it just right, transfer everything to a serving dish. Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top to give it that lovely finishing touch. And voilà! You’re ready to enjoy these tasty honey glazed carrots and green beans.
This side dish is perfect alongside roasted meats or can stand alone as part of a colorful vegetable medley on your dinner table. Enjoy your delicious creation! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add or substitute other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or even asparagus. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times so everything is cooked properly.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the vegetables and the glaze in advance, then store them separately in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to serve, simply reheat the veggies in a skillet until warmed through and then add the glaze.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stove or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them to keep that nice texture!
Can I Use Maple Syrup Instead of Honey?
Definitely! Maple syrup is a perfect substitute and will still give that sweet, sticky glaze. Feel free to use an equal amount for a delicious variation. Enjoy experimenting!
