These honey glazed carrots and green beans are bright, tasty, and super quick to make! The natural sweetness of honey makes the veggies pop with flavor.
Honestly, it’s hard not to love a side that’s this colorful and delicious! I always feel fancy serving it at dinner, but it’s easy enough to whip up any night of the week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: These are sweet and tender, making them perfect for glazing. Feel free to use regular carrots, just cut them into small pieces. If you prefer a little crunch, consider using parsnips mixed in for a unique flavor.
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are best for this recipe. If they aren’t available, you could substitute frozen green beans, but be sure to thaw them first. Snap peas could also be a fun twist!
Butter: Unsalted butter is great because it lets you control the saltiness. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, coconut oil or olive oil works well too, adding a different yet delicious flavor.
Honey: This gives a lovely sweetness. You could swap it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a pop of color and freshness. You can easily switch this with fresh thyme or dill for a different aromatic touch.
How Do I Get the Best Glaze on My Veggies?
The secret to achieving a great glaze on your carrots and green beans is in the cooking technique. Here’s how to get it right:
- First, make sure to drain the veggies well after boiling; excess water can prevent a good glaze.
- Use medium heat to melt the butter and blend in the honey. You want it warm enough to combine, but not so hot that it burns.
- After adding the veggies to the skillet, toss them frequently. This ensures that every piece is covered in that glossy, sweet mixture.
- If you want a more caramelized finish, let them cook without stirring for a minute before tossing again. But watch closely to prevent burning!
Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb baby carrots (mixed colors if desired)
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious side dish will take you about 15 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 5 minutes prepping and cooking the veggies, plus a few minutes for the glaze, and then it’s ready to serve. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Veggies:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the baby carrots. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes or until they are just tender. Then, add the trimmed green beans into the pot and cook together for another 2-3 minutes until the beans are crisp-tender. Once they’re done, drain all the water and set the veggies aside.
2. Make the Honey Glaze:
In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, pour in the honey along with the salt and black pepper. Stir the mixture together until it is well combined and bubbling slightly.
3. Combine and Coat:
Add the drained carrots and green beans back into the skillet. Carefully toss the vegetables in the buttery honey glaze, making sure every piece is beautifully coated. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the veggies are nice and glossy, and maybe slightly caramelized.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything looks lovely and glazed, remove the skillet from the heat. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a bit of extra color and flavor. Serve the honey glazed carrots and green beans immediately for a delightful side dish!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen baby carrots and green beans! Just be sure to thaw them beforehand and pat them dry to avoid excess water in the pan. This may slightly alter the cooking time, so keep an eye on them while cooking to ensure they don’t get mushy.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover honey glazed carrots and green beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a little water or butter to refresh them if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and cook the veggies up to a day in advance. Just keep them in the fridge after cooking. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them in the skillet, adding a touch of honey and butter for that fresh glaze.
What Other Seasonings Can I Add?
If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes for some heat, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright finish. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also pair wonderfully with these veggies!