Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans

Introduction

Did you know that incorporating vegetables into your meals can improve your overall health and well-being? In fact, the CDC states that only about 1 in 10 adults consume the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables. If you’re looking for an easy way to boost your veggie intake, this recipe for honey glazed carrots and green beans might just be what you need! Not only does it provide a delightful mix of sweetness and crunch, but it also makes for a colorful addition to your dinner table. Let’s dive into this flavorful dish that’s both nutritious and easy to make!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you will need to create this delicious honey glazed carrots and green beans dish:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 lb baby carrots or sliced regular carrots
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Suggestions for substitutions:

• Agave syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.
• Use ghee instead of butter for a lactose-free alternative.
• Add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty twist!

Timing

This honey glazed carrots and green beans recipe has a convenient cooking timeline:

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes—this is approximately 25% faster than the average vegetable side dish recipe!

Step 1: Prepare the Veggies

Start by washing your green beans and carrots thoroughly. If you’re using larger carrots, peel them and slice them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Blanch the Green Beans

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and blanch them for about 3–4 minutes until they’re bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Carrots

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced carrots with a pinch of salt and cook for about 5 minutes until tender. Stir occasionally to ensure they don’t burn.

Step 4: Combine with Honey Glaze

Add the honey to the carrots and mix well. Toss in the blanched green beans, black pepper, and olive oil if you’re using it. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the honey to coat the veggies and glaze them beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat and transfer the honey glazed carrots and green beans to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Enjoy your vibrant vegetable dish!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value per serving of honey glazed carrots and green beans:

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 10g

This dish is not only tasty but also a healthy side with beneficial vitamins and minerals!

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Looking for ways to make this recipe even healthier? Here are some modifications:

• Replace honey with a small amount of maple syrup to reduce sugar content.
• Use steamed cauliflower florets instead of carrots for a lower-calorie option.
• Add a sprinkle of walnuts or almonds for healthy fats and a satisfying crunch.

Serving Suggestions

These honey glazed carrots and green beans are incredibly versatile. Here are some enjoyable serving ideas:

• Pair with roasted chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Serve as a colorful side dish at your holiday gatherings or dinners.
• Mix in with quinoa or brown rice for a delicious veggie bowl.

Feel free to experiment and create your own personalized plated dish that looks as good as it tastes!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the vegetables: Keep an eye on the green beans and carrots to maintain their crunchiness.
• Skipping the ice bath: Plunging the green beans into ice water is essential to retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
• Using too much honey: While it’s the star of the show, too much can make the dish overly sweet. Stick to the recommended amount!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To ensure your leftovers stay fresh:

• Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop; add a splash of water to keep them moist.
• For meal prepping, blanch the beans and cook the carrots ahead of time, then glaze just before serving.

Conclusion

The honey glazed carrots and green beans recipe offers a delightful combination of sweetness and crunch, enriching your diet with essential nutrients. We encourage you to try this recipe at home and join the conversation—leave a comment or review to share your thoughts, and don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

FAQs

Can I use frozen carrots or green beans for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables! Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are heated through and tender.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, simply replace the honey with agave syrup and use olive oil instead of butter.

What other vegetables can I add to this dish?

Feel free to incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas for additional color and texture!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the vegetables a day in advance and glaze them just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

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