why make this recipe

Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans is a delicious and vibrant side dish that brings together the sweetness of honey and the freshness of vegetables. It’s perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. The honey glaze not only adds flavor but also gives the vegetables a lovely shine. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is a great way to enjoy your veggies!

how to make Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans

Ingredients:

1 pound fresh carrots: Choose firm, brightly colored carrots. You can cut them into uniform pieces or use pre-cut baby carrots for ease.
1 pound fresh green beans: Look for vibrant green beans that snap easily. French green beans or regular ones both work nicely.
3 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is great for flavor, but you can use other neutral oils if you prefer.
3 tablespoons honey: A good quality honey will enhance the glaze, offering a beautiful shine and delicious flavor.
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar: This adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the honey.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds savory depth to the dish.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme brings earthy flavors to the mix; fresh thyme works too.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Seasoning enhances the flavors of the vegetables.
Optional garnishes: Chopped fresh parsley or toasted sesame seeds for added appeal.

Directions:

Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and trim the green beans, snapping off the stem ends. Peel whole carrots and cut them into roughly 1-inch thick diagonal pieces. If using baby carrots, keep them whole or halve them if they’re thick. This step ensures even cooking for both vegetables.
Make the Honey Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is combined. Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Coat the Vegetables: In a large bowl, place the prepared carrots and green beans. Pour the honey glaze over them and toss gently to coat every piece evenly.
Roast the Vegetables: Spread the glazed vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding; if necessary, use two sheets to ensure proper roasting.
Roasting Time and Monitoring: Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender-crisp and the green beans are bright green. Start checking around 20 minutes for doneness.
Achieve Caramelization: For added caramelization, broil the vegetables for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Rest and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the vegetables rest for a minute. Garnish with parsley or sesame seeds if desired, then serve immediately.

how to serve Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans

Serve these Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans alongside any main dish, from roasted chicken to grilled steaks. They make a colorful addition to your plate and will impress your family and guests.

how to store Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

tips to make Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans

Make sure to cut your carrots and green beans to similar sizes for even cooking.
For a deeper flavor, you can add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a twist!

variation

If you enjoy nuts, consider adding toasted pecans or walnuts to the dish for extra crunch and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
Yes, frozen carrots and green beans can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Thaw and dry them thoroughly before roasting.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and the glaze ahead of time. Just store them separately and combine before roasting.

What can I substitute for honey?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey if you’re looking for a vegan option.