These honey glazed carrots and green beans are a sweet and colorful side dish that brightens up any meal. They are easy to make and perfect for adding a little cheer to your dinner plate!
Trust me, the honey makes the veggies taste extra special! I love to serve them with chicken or on a holiday table. Plus, they look so fancy, but really, they take no time at all to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are convenient, but regular carrots can work too! Peeling and cutting them into sticks gives a nice, homemade touch. I like to mix colors when I can find them; purple or yellow carrots add great visual appeal!
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for this dish, providing that crisp tenderness. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen green beans; just make sure to thaw and dry them off. Canned green beans are an option too, but they won’t have the same snap.
Butter: Unsalted butter enhances the flavor without adding extra salt. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter or olive oil instead of butter. I like a combo of butter and olive oil for a richer taste!
Honey: Honey is key for that glaze! If you’re looking for a vegan version, use maple syrup or agave syrup instead. Remember, honey has a unique flavor, so the sweetener you choose can change the taste a bit.
How Can I Make Sure My Carrots Are Perfectly Glazed?
Getting that beautiful honey glaze on your veggies is simple with the right techniques. First, the process of blanching green beans helps keep them bright and crisp. This step ensures they’re perfectly tender without getting mushy. Here’s how to glaze the vegetables:
- Use medium heat when cooking the carrots. This helps caramelization without burning.
- Add honey towards the end of cooking to avoid it burning and turning bitter. Stir gently to coat all the vegetables evenly.
- Keep an eye on the pan to avoid overcooking. You want your carrots and green beans tender yet still vibrant in color.
By following these steps, you’ll have a deliciously glazed side dish that’s eye-catching and tasty!
Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Vegetables:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or regular carrots peeled and cut into sticks)
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
For The Glaze:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For The Garnish:
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful side dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. With a little bit of chopping and simple cooking techniques, you’ll have a beautiful, sweet, and savory dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing your green beans thoroughly. Trim off the ends. If you’re using regular carrots, peel them and cut them into sticks or bite-sized pieces. Baby carrots can go straight into the pot!
2. Blanch the Green Beans:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the trimmed green beans and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes. They should be bright green and just tender. When done, carefully remove them with a slotted spoon and quickly transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool down. This keeps them vibrant and crunchy! Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté the Carrots:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter along with the olive oil. Once melted, add the carrots to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the carrots for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and get a nice golden color.
4. Combine and Glaze:
Add the blanched green beans to the skillet with the carrots. Drizzle the honey over the carrots and green beans, tossing gently to ensure all the vegetables are well coated in the honey glaze.
5. Finish Cooking:
Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and beautifully glazed with a shiny, caramelized appearance. The smell will be mouthwatering!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from heat and transfer the honey glazed carrots and green beans to a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely touch before serving.
Enjoy this delicious and colorful side dish with your favorite main course! It’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots and green beans! Just make sure to thaw them beforehand and drain any excess water. You might skip the blanching step since they are already cooked, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are heated through and glazed nicely.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If they seem dry, add a splash of water to revive that delicious glaze!
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegan, simply substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or use olive oil for all the fat. Replace honey with maple syrup or agave syrup for that sweet glaze. The flavor will still be delightful!
What Can I Serve with Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans?
This side dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted meats, or fish. It also works well with grain-based dishes like quinoa or rice for a hearty meal. Feel free to experiment with different main courses!
