• Fresh Carrots (1 pound): Choose firm, brightly colored carrots. Baby carrots are convenient, but whole carrots, peeled and sliced, offer a more robust carrot flavor and texture. They are the sweet and vibrant base of our dish.
• Fresh Green Beans (1 pound): Look for crisp, bright green beans. French green beans (haricot verts) are particularly elegant, but standard green beans work wonderfully too. Ensure they are trimmed and ready to cook, providing a delightful snap and freshness.
• Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): Butter adds richness and depth of flavor to the glaze. Unsalted allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute with olive oil or coconut oil.
• Honey (3 tablespoons): The star of the glaze! Honey provides natural sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish. Choose a good quality honey; wildflower or clover honey work particularly well.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Fresh garlic, minced or finely grated, adds a savory and aromatic dimension that balances the sweetness of the honey. It’s a subtle but essential flavor enhancer.
• Fresh Thyme (1 teaspoon): Thyme brings a delicate, earthy, and slightly lemony herb note that complements both the carrots and green beans. Fresh thyme is preferred for its brighter flavor, but dried thyme can be used in a pinch (use half the amount).
• Salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors in the dish. Kosher salt or sea salt is recommended for its clean taste.
• Black Pepper (to taste): Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and complexity, balancing the sweetness and rounding out the overall flavor profile.