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Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans – A Sweet and Savory Side Dish for Every Occasion

Bring a burst of color and flavor to your dinner table with this Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans recipe — a simple yet elegant side dish that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. This combination of tender roasted carrots and crisp green beans coated in a luscious honey-balsamic glaze is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of dish that looks as good as it tastes — glossy, caramelized vegetables with just the right hint of garlic and herbs. Perfect for holiday feasts, weeknight dinners, or special gatherings, this recipe pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, beef, or even vegetarian mains. What makes this dish shine is the contrast of textures and flavors: the carrots’ natural sweetness deepens in the oven while the green beans retain a slight snap. Finished with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of thyme, it’s an easy way to elevate your vegetable sides to restaurant-quality perfection.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Here’s what you’ll need to make about 4–6 servings of Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans:
Vegetables
  • 1 pound fresh carrots peeled and sliced into uniform sticks (or use baby carrots for convenience)
  • 1 pound fresh green beans trimmed and ends removed
Oil & Glaze
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Aromatics & Seasonings
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Each ingredient plays a role: honey adds sweetness balsamic brings tang, and garlic and thyme tie everything together into a flavorful, glossy side dish.

Equipment

  • Before you start, gather these kitchen essentials for an effortless cooking experience:
  • Large baking sheet or roasting pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Aluminum foil or parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
  • Having these tools ready ensures smooth prep and even roasting every time.

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash and peel the carrots, then slice them into uniform sticks or coins for even roasting.
  3. Trim the green beans and remove any tough ends.
  4. Pat the vegetables dry to help them roast rather than steam.
Step 2: Make the Honey-Balsamic Glaze
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and thyme.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Toss and Roast
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine carrots and half of the glaze. Toss well to coat evenly.
  2. Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Roast for 15 minutes first — this gives them a head start since carrots take longer to cook.
  4. Remove the pan, add the green beans, and drizzle with the remaining glaze. Toss gently to combine.
  5. Return to the oven and roast for another 10–12 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
  1. Transfer the roasted vegetables to a serving platter.
  2. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the top.
  3. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or toasted sesame seeds for a pop of color and texture.
  4. Serve warm and enjoy the irresistible balance of sweet honey, tangy balsamic, and savory garlic herbs.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until warmed through.
You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispness.
Avoid microwaving for too long as it can make the vegetables soggy.
Tip: Add a drizzle of fresh honey or olive oil before serving reheated leftovers to refresh the glaze.
🥄 Variations
Citrus Glaze: Add 1 tablespoon orange juice and zest of ½ orange for a bright, fresh twist.
Maple-Thyme Flavor: Swap honey for maple syrup for a deeper, earthier sweetness.
Nutty Garnish: Top with toasted almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts for crunch and contrast.
Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes or smoked paprika to the glaze for a hint of heat.
Asian Fusion Style: Replace balsamic vinegar with rice vinegar and sprinkle with sesame seeds and a drizzle of soy sauce.
Garlic Butter Version: Toss the roasted veggies in melted butter with garlic and parsley before serving for a richer flavor.
Each variation transforms the same simple ingredients into a whole new dish!
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but thaw and pat them dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Roast the veggies a day before, store in the fridge, and reheat before serving.
Can I cook this on the stovetop?
Yes, sauté the carrots for 5–7 minutes first, then add green beans and glaze, cooking until tender and glossy.
How do I keep green beans crisp?
Don’t over-roast — 10 minutes in the oven is perfect for tender yet crisp beans.
Can I use baby carrots?
Yes! They’re convenient and cook evenly; just adjust roasting time as needed.
What can I serve with honey glazed carrots and green beans?
They pair beautifully with roast turkey, chicken, salmon, or tofu.
Can I make it vegan?
Definitely — replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or parsnips blend wonderfully with this glaze.
Why use both honey and balsamic?
The honey provides sweetness and shine, while the balsamic adds balance and depth.
How can I make it extra glossy?
Brush with a final drizzle of honey right after roasting for that gorgeous, caramelized finish.
🏁 Conclusion
This Honey Glazed Carrots & Green Beans recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll transform humble vegetables into a sweet, savory, and vibrant side dish that steals the spotlight on any table.
The caramelized honey glaze pairs beautifully with the tender roasted carrots and crisp green beans, while the balsamic vinegar ties everything together with its subtle tang. Each bite delivers a burst of warm, comforting flavors — making it ideal for both everyday meals and festive feasts.
Whether you’re serving it alongside a holiday roast or enjoying it as a wholesome weeknight side, this dish is guaranteed to make everyone reach for seconds.