Why Make This Recipe
Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans are a fantastic side dish to brighten up any meal. The natural sweetness of the honey complements the fresh flavors of the vegetables, making them not only delicious but also visually appealing. This simple recipe is easy to prepare and adds a touch of elegance to your dinner table. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet!
How to Make Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh carrots: Choose firm and brightly colored carrots. You can chop whole carrots or use pre-cut baby carrots for convenience.
- 1 pound fresh green beans: Look for vibrant green beans that snap easily. Avoid any that look wilted or have brown spots.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for flavor, but you can use other neutral oils if needed.
- 3 tablespoons honey: Use a good quality honey for the best flavor. Local or wildflower honey adds a nice sweetness.
- 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 and complements the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme gives an earthy note. Fresh thyme can be used as well.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- Optional garnishes: Chopped fresh parsley or toasted sesame seeds can add extra visual appeal.
Directions:
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Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and trim the green beans, snapping off the ends. Peel and cut whole carrots into 1-inch thick pieces. If using baby carrots, you can keep them whole or halve them if they are thick. This ensures even cooking.
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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 well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
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Coat the Vegetables: Place the carrots and green beans in a large bowl. Pour the honey glaze over them and toss to coat evenly. Ensure all the vegetables are well covered in glaze.
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Roast the Vegetables: Spread the coated vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they roast instead of steam.
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Roasting Time and Monitoring: Roast in the oven for about 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness around 20 minutes. The carrots should be tender yet crisp, and the green beans should be bright and slightly tender-crisp.
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Achieve Caramelization: For extra caramelization, broil the vegetables for the last 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
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Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let them rest for a minute. Garnish with parsley or sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.
How to Serve Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
These carrots and green beans are a versatile side dish. They pair well with a variety of main dishes such as roasted chicken, grilled fish, or steak. You can serve them warm alongside other sides or keep them cool for a refreshing addition to salads.
How to Store Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for about 3-4 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in the microwave or sauté them on the stove for a few minutes until heated through.
Tips to Make Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
- Cut the vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to achieve nice caramelization.
- Taste the glaze before applying to the vegetables to adjust the flavors to your liking.
- Broiling for a short time at the end can enhance the caramelization and flavor.
Variation
For a twist, add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a colorful medley. You can also try different herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Preparation and roasting time take about 30-40 minutes total, making it a quick side dish.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Fresh vegetables work best for this recipe, but if you use frozen, reduce the roasting time slightly.
What can I use instead of honey?
You can try maple syrup for a different sweetness, but it will change the flavor profile slightly.