These honey glazed carrots and green beans are sweet and colorful! The honey gives a nice shine and a touch of sweetness to the crisp veggies—perfect for any meal!
They are super easy to make, and your family will love the taste. I like to serve them with chicken or fish, and they always brighten up my plate. Who knew veggies could be this delicious? 🌽🥕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: Fresh baby carrots are sweet and tender. If they’re not available, you can use regular carrots, just slice them into thinner matchsticks or rounds for even cooking.
Green Beans: Fresh green beans add a lovely crunch. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen green beans work well. Just cook them a bit less since they’ve already been blanched.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps glaze the vegetables. Maple syrup can be an excellent substitute if you prefer a different flavor or are looking for a vegan option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a nice kick. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip it, or use garlic powder instead for a milder flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Vegetables Are Perfectly Tender and Glazed?
The trick to getting those carrots and green beans tender while still crisp is to blanch them first. This method involves briefly cooking them in boiling water, then shocking them in ice water to stop the cooking. Here’s how:
- Boil salted water before adding the green beans for about 2-3 minutes until bright green.
- Immediately move the green beans to an ice water bath to preserve their color and crunch.
- For the carrots, give them about 5-7 minutes in the boiling water until they are tender but not mushy.
After this, toss the vegetables in the honey butter carefully, so they get that lovely glaze without getting too mushy. Enjoy your colorful and delicious side dish! 🌱
Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Vegetable Mix:
- 1 lb (about 450 g) baby carrots, peeled
- 1/2 lb (about 225 g) fresh green beans, trimmed
For the Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
For Seasoning and Garnish:
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful side dish will take around 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a colorful and healthy veggie dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blanch the Green Beans:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, toss in the fresh green beans. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and just tender. Don’t overcook them! Use a slotted spoon to remove the beans and quickly transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water. This stops the cooking process and keeps them crisp. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Carrots:
In the same pot of boiling water, add the baby carrots. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still slightly firm. Drain the carrots and let them sit for a moment to steam off any excess water.
3. Prepare the Glaze:
While your veggies are draining, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt. Stir in the honey and minced garlic (if you’re using it) until it’s well combined and bubbly.
4. Combine the Vegetables and Glaze:
Now, it’s time to add the drained carrots and green beans to the skillet. Toss them gently in the honey butter mixture so they get well-coated and shiny. Cook everything together for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are nicely glazed and just beginning to caramelize.
5. Season and Serve:
Season your glazed veggies with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Transfer them to a serving dish and sprinkle with the freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
These honey glazed carrots and green beans are not only delicious but also a beautiful addition to your meal. The sweet glaze and vibrant colors make them a hit with everyone!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen baby carrots and green beans can be used. Just cook them according to the package instructions and skip the blanching step to save time.
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness of the Glaze?
If you find the honey glaze too sweet for your taste, feel free to reduce the amount of honey. Start with 1 tablespoon and increase gradually if you’d like it sweeter. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for a tangy balance!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the vegetables and glaze separately up to 2 days in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just reheat the veggies in a skillet, then add the glaze until warmed through.
What Should I Serve with Honey Glazed Carrots and Green Beans?
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted meats such as chicken, pork, or fish. It also complements grain dishes, like quinoa or rice, making for a colorful and nutritious meal!