I make these Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans when I want a colorful, lightly sweet side dish that feels both fresh and comforting. Tender vegetables are coated in a glossy honey glaze that enhances their natural flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this dish balances sweetness with a touch of savory richness. The carrots become tender and slightly caramelized, while the green beans stay crisp and vibrant. It’s simple to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and pairs beautifully with everything from roasted chicken to holiday meals. I also appreciate how quickly it comes together on the stovetop.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 cups sliced carrots
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2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 tablespoons honey
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Directions
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I bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the carrots for about 3 minutes.
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I add the green beans and cook for another 2–3 minutes until just tender.
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I drain the vegetables and set them aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, I melt the butter.
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I stir in the honey and let it warm gently.
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I add the carrots and green beans to the skillet and toss until evenly coated.
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I cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly and the vegetables are heated through.
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I season with salt, black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
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I sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving if I like.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 4 people as a side dish.
I usually spend around 10 minutes preparing the vegetables and 10–12 minutes cooking. In total, it’s ready in approximately 20–25 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy version. If I want extra depth, I stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar. I also enjoy topping the dish with toasted almonds for added crunch.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I warm the vegetables gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, I thaw them first and adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
How do I keep the green beans crisp?
I avoid overboiling and finish cooking them in the skillet just until tender-crisp.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, I substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.
Is this dish very sweet?
It has a light sweetness from the honey, but I adjust the amount to suit my taste.
What meals pair well with this?
I enjoy serving it alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or baked fish.
Conclusion
I love how these Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans bring together sweet, savory, and fresh flavors in one simple side dish. It’s quick, colorful, and perfect whenever I want something warm and satisfying on the table.
PrintHoney Glazed Carrots & Green Beans
Tender carrots and crisp green beans coated in a glossy honey butter glaze for a lightly sweet and savory side dish that’s fresh, colorful, and comforting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Blanching & Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups sliced carrots
- 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the carrots for 3 minutes.
- Add the green beans and cook for another 2–3 minutes until just tender.
- Drain the vegetables and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in the honey and let it warm gently.
- Add the carrots and green beans, tossing to coat evenly.
- Cook for 4–5 minutes until the glaze slightly thickens and vegetables are heated through.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving if desired.
Notes
- Do not overboil the vegetables to keep them crisp-tender.
- Add red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy twist.
- Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar for deeper flavor.
- Top with toasted almonds for extra crunch.
- Substitute plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
