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Side of Veggies

Side of Veggies

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Thank you so much for checking into the newest site of sideofveggies.com!

Hi, I’m Michelle! I am a Florida living, food loving, recipe developer. I’m also the graphic designer, web editor, photographer, content developer and creator of sideofveggies.com. The small window between my daily iced coffee and happy hour consists of getting as much done in the gym, in the kitchen and at my job. Any and all free time is used to think about what creative task to do next and finding the motivation to do so. 

Call me crazy, but I am fully invested in being an ever-growing food blogger while working a full time job in management within the hospitality industry. I am an Ohio State University graduate with a degree in art. I am also licensed in real estate and have a background in event management. My biggest passion, however, lies within the creativity that empowers the food and web marketing industry. Honestly, none of that really matters. What matters is what led me to create this site…and more importantly what’s going to keep you on this site.

If nothing else, I’ll introduce you to my four-legged partner in crime, Chandler. (Yes, the name is exactly where you think it’s from…Friends. And so are some references on this site.)

If you haven’t noticed already, I absolutely love vegetables! I am not a vegetarian or a vegan by any means. I still love meat and cheese (don’t even get me started on my love for charcuterie boards!). My journey is a little odd and my story is a little weird. That’s truly why I am here. It’s my goal to show everyone how to incorporate vegetables and lighter ingredients into their favorite dishes. Maybe even gain some credit from even the pickiest eaters…dreaming big….

I’m sure you’re all wondering…is this another website that talks about the importance of eating whole fruits and vegetables in order to lose weight or live a healthier lifestyle? Yes, but also, NO! I think everyone has heard that adding fruits and vegetables to your diet may be beneficial for a plethora of reasons (duh!) but we’re not going there yet. We’re taking this in a different direction and connecting with a different mindset. Hear me out…

Years ago I ventured into the world of eating better and exercising for fun. This was the best outlet for my anxiety. The only reason I turned to these healthy alternatives was because I needed another way to deal with stress. When I turned to that faulty “C” word – CONTROL, I decided diet and exercise gave me routine and identity (which I was longing for in my college years). I MASTERED it! It wasn’t even my intent to drop much weight, but I was in control and it worked. I was the queen of weight loss. I was the Albert Einstein of the dieting equation. I had it down. I could lose weight like it was my job…until it became the new stressor in my life. 

There became a point were I was so successful in dropping pounds that my body needed to gain quite a bit back. Here’s the thing… I felt accomplished, however, I compromised my energy, my social life and my real love for being in the kitchen and cooking with my friends and family. I lost time worrying about what foods were going to interfere with my diet equation. I subtracted the enjoyment out of the things that made me whole. I knew what worked…I could teach so many people how to lose weight in the blink of an eye with eating just 20 simple foods. I didn’t know another way or how to go the other direction. I didn’t know how to reteach myself how to live and enjoy my favorite foods without feeling like I was contradicting my previous process. And I think that’s what the world needs and that’s what I needed at the time…

Look, it doesn’t matter where you’re at in you’re health journey (people define health in so many ways). This site is a resource for all. I wish I would have had someone talk to me about the weight-gain journey years ago, in a way that made sense for my mindset. There are a lot of people right now that want to balance what they eat for whatever reason, but GOOD GOD, they can’t JUST live off grilled chicken salads (dressing on the side) for the rest of their lives. That was me. That’s where I was stuck…I LOVED pizza, fries, chicken tenders, tacos…oh yes, the tacos…. but I didn’t know how to add them BACK into my life. So much so that I convinced myself that I could live without those simple enjoyments. And that right there was me living an actual unhealthy lifestyle! That’s where I knew I really needed to work my way out of controlled eating and dip my toes (slowly but surely) in the world of LIVING!

The BEST way I handled this task was making those “guilty pleasures” into “healthified indulgences”. There were moments years ago that I feared never eating a holiday dinner with my family again (thinking I had to plan and cut my favorite dishes). That’s when I threw myself back into the kitchen. I became invested in developing recipes that caught the essence of my greatest cravings and twisted them into feel-good creations. All of which have been mastered and tweaked over the years. Not just for my enjoyment, but for the satisfaction of bringing the fear out of eating what you love, for those who need it…and then some. It was all about regaining the good side of “control”.

BIGGEST DISCLAIMER: For the longest time I told myself I “couldn’t” have something. Now, it took me some time, but I focused on developing recipes that were my favorite foods. I started to give myself permission to take a day out of my week to go get the real stuff. Just do it! One “cheat meal” is not the end all be all. It’s actually everything you need in moderation to tell yourself that you’re ALLOWED to eat those things. And then other days, stick to the leaner versions. You owe it you yourself. It’s a journey…and it’s not always easy. Trust me, I get it.

Growing up and eating dinners as a family, my mom always included a side of vegetables. It was her way of knowing we were balancing our diets and our way of staying healthy. It worked when I started losing weight too. I knew that no matter what, balancing your diet with lighter ingredients, ESPECIALLY VEGETABLES was the mindset that got me one step closer to having a better relationship with food. It’s also the mental comfort I personally needed to make strides towards slowly relearning what I loved (and not what I HAD to have). 

Incorporating vegetables in recipes is somewhat of a challenge when your goal is for the majority of the population to love it. Let’s be real…vegetables as the main filling in a taco…not everyone’s go-to! Substituting different ingredients is one way to lighten up your dishes and still satisfy your cravings. We fail to talk about both ends of redeveloping your love for food. Whether your losing or even learning to gain weight with balance, Side of Veggies is committed to helping guests feel good about what they eat and embrace the life they are meant to live!


Where the magic happens

More often then not, you’ll find me at home. I’ve spent a lot of time designing and building a cozy place. My house is a place where the scene is set and the creativity comes alive.


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It is important to know that I am in no way, shape, or form a certified nutritionist or medical expert. This website, as well as all linked social media sites, is simply thoughts and ideas based on my personal journey.

If you are looking to change or enhance your lifestyle through diet, please consult with a certified physician, doctor or a medical expert who has knowledge of your health status and goals. 

Sideofveggies.com does not follow or suggest any specific diet. Recipes may reference a lifestyle trend or diet, however, I (Michelle Cerutti) am not a registered dietician or medical expert. When making recipes, I am using wholesome ingredients to navigate viewers through my journey and how I managed to obtain a better relationship with food and drink. 

Alcohol is also referenced in this blog. Sideofveggies.com is not directed to those who are 21 and under and does not condone under age drinking by any means. For all recipes or cocktails that use alcohol as an ingredient, please drink responsibly. I am not liable for personal decisions made when creating recipes.


Nutrition

The nutritional information posted on each recipe is simply for reference. I use generic generators and basic math to calculate and ESTIMATE calories per serving. 

I make no claims as to using this to lose or gain weight. I, myself, like to read nutritional labels for my own piece of mind and comparison which is why I wanted to offer these suggestions, not facts, to this site. 

When it comes to nutrition, it is important to know that it is a challenge to share EXACTLY what caloric amounts are in the serving. Some of this is simply because all creators of a recipe may use different products or altered cooking methods that change the nutrition. 

This is simply information collected and shared for reference purposes only.

Chandler is my sidekick through the making of sideofveggies.com amongst so many other things I’ve encountered in life. He brings a lot of happiness and joy into my day and keeps life light and comical! 


I, Michelle Cerutti, am not a trained chef or culinary expert. All descriptions, articles and posts are simply for reference. I, or, sideofveggies.com are not liable for any injuries or errors when making or recreating the content on this site. 

If you do feel like you are struggling with stress, anxiety or even an eating disorder, it is critical that you reach out to licensed health professionals for advice. Only you can take the first steps towards a positive change in your life. 


Side of Veggies

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Simple & Spicy Bloody Mary - March is full of cele Simple & Spicy Bloody Mary - March is full of celebrations – and when the crazy weekends start to dwindle down, a recovery drink is on the menu! Spicy, “nutritious” and fun Bloody Mary’s are the absolute best!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#bloodymary #bloodymarys #vodka #tomatojuice #recovery #brunch #hotsauce #sideofveggies
Spinach Artichoke Grilled Cheese - The classic gri Spinach Artichoke Grilled Cheese - The classic grilled cheese gets a grown up twist! Your favorite party dip is now melted between toasty bread!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#spinachartichokedip #grilledcheese #tomatoes #spinach #comfortfood #artichokes #mozzarella #parmesan #sideofveggies
Spinach Artichoke Dip - The quintessential dip to Spinach Artichoke Dip - The quintessential dip to any bar, pub, tailgate or holiday party. All the favorite features of this dip come to life in this leaner version - without compromising flavor!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#spinachartichokedip #dip #kale #vegetarian #cheese #greekyogurt #dip #pita #gamedayfood #partyfood #artichokehearts #spinach #sideofveggies
Pesto & Roasted Vegetable Tomato Soup - A classic Pesto & Roasted Vegetable Tomato Soup - A classic soup for a cold day just got a makeover. Your inner child will die for this dynamic duo! Serve with Spinach Artichoke Grilled Cheese!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#tomatosoup #coldandfluseason #roastedvegetables #roastedgarlic #soup #comfortfood #grilledcheese #winterfood #sideofveggies
Parmesan Roasted Parsnips - If you’re looking to Parmesan Roasted Parsnips - If you’re looking to add a unique flair to your cozy, winter dinners – parsnips are the way to go. These are super underrated but the perfect addition to a comfort dinner during these months.Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#parsnips #rootvegetables #roasted #parmesan #sidedish #winterfoods #sideofveggies
Buffalo Chicken Dip - Every tailgate needs buffalo Buffalo Chicken Dip - Every tailgate needs buffalo chicken something! Bring this to your next tailgate party and leave the guilt at home! And no one will know there are added vegetables to this dip!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#buffalochickendip #hiddenveggies #franksbuffalosauce #hotsauce #bluecheese #ranchdressing #cheese #dip #footballfoods #tailgateseason #sideofveggies
Roasted Beet, Butternut Squash and Whipped Goat Ch Roasted Beet, Butternut Squash and Whipped Goat Cheese Dip - Don’t sleep on this cozy, fall appetizer the next time you entertain. It’s such a unique way to add some vegetables to your cheese spread!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#beets #roasted #butternutsquash #dip #goatcheese #pepitas #whippedgoatcheese #arugula #crostini #fall #sideofveggies
Light Broccoli Cheese Soup - Soup season is in ful Light Broccoli Cheese Soup - Soup season is in full swing with one of my all time favorites - Broccoli Cheese Soup! You’ll be shocked to hear that this classic is made with zero flour, butter or calorie packed creams while still being creamy, smooth and perfect for fall. Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#broccolicheddarsoup #broccolicheesesoup #veggies #soupseason #fallrecipes #broccoli #cauliflower #carrots #laughingcowcheese #cheddar #comfortfood #sideofveggies
Roasted Artichoke & White Bean Salad - This is a f Roasted Artichoke & White Bean Salad - This is a fantastic way to close out summer and hurricane season! A light, yet cozy, salad that is full of veggies and protein - perfect as a side or whole meal!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#artichoke #salad #whitebeans #healthyrecipes #tomato #parsley #sideofveggies
Game Day Turkey Chili - This Ohio State Buckeye sh Game Day Turkey Chili - This Ohio State Buckeye shares a state staple that will warm you up even in the coolest seasons. There is NOTHING that can kick off a football season better than a cold beer and hot bowl of chili!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#ohiostatefootball #buckeyes #turkeychili #gamedayfood #footballseason #chili #chilibeans #ohio #sideofveggies
Garlic Confit- Calling all garlic lovers - Become Garlic Confit- Calling all garlic lovers - Become addicted to making this recipe every weekend and using it in almost everything. This garlic confit is insane and it’s so easy to throw together!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#garlicconfit #garlic #confit #frenchcooking #slowcooked #rosemary #sideofveggies
Mediterranean Seared Zucchini - It’s that time o Mediterranean Seared Zucchini - It’s that time of year again – zucchini season! Mediterranean Seared Zucchini is an elevated way to fall in love with this simple vegetable.Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#zucchini #panseared #grilled #summerfood #vegetarianrecipes #feta #pistachio #lemon #hummus #mediterranean #olives #sideofveggies
Bacon, Berry & Blue Salad with Grilled Chicken - F Bacon, Berry & Blue Salad with Grilled Chicken - Finally – a feel good salad that doesn’t skip a beat. It’s wildly delicious. This is a sweet and savory combination of bacon, berries and blue cheese. Perfect for the 4th of July!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#fourthofjuly #summersalad #bacon #berries #bluecheese #balsamic #candiednuts #spinach #mixedgreens #grilledchicken #independenceday #bbqfood #holidaycookout #summer #sideofveggies
The Perfect Grilled Corn - Grilled corn on the cob The Perfect Grilled Corn - Grilled corn on the cob is simple, delicious and the perfect way to tee up summer! This method is the easiest and best for tons of other recipes!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#grilledcorn #cornonthecob #summer #grilling #healthyeats #bbq #sideofveggies
Grilled Skirt Steak with Corn, Tomato & Herb Salad Grilled Skirt Steak with Corn, Tomato & Herb Salad - The perfect citrus marinated skirt steak will give you all the summer vibes you need! Topped with a grilled corn and tomato herb salad, this veggie-packed steak dish will have you firing up the grill all season long.Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#steak #fathersday #grillporn #grilledcorn #cornsalad #summerrecipes #proteinpacked #cilantro #parsley #onions #sideofveggies
Turkey Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups - This recipe sati Turkey Pepperoni Pizza Roll Ups - This recipe satisfies my constant craving for pizza without any guilt. Packed with low fat pepperonis and cheese, tons of vegetables, and even a thin, crispy and crunchy crust…you’ll be hooked in no time!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#pizzarollups #pizza #pepperoni #snacks #marinarasauce #mozzarella #airfryer #baked #veggiepacked #sideofveggies
Baked PB&J Chicken Wings - One of the most nostalg Baked PB&J Chicken Wings - One of the most nostalgic lunch box sandwiches becomes a bar food favorite. Peanut butter and strawberry jelly chicken wings could be the best combo in its own weird way. Baked and made with lighter ingredients, you’ll have to try them for yourself.Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com.I would like to dedicate this recipe to one of my favorite people, Rinky Dink @rink91 ….For so many reasons….😊😇#inspiration.#peanutbutter #peanutbutterandjelly #peanutbutterandjellywings #strawberryjelly #weirdfoodcombos #wings #baked #airfryer #barffood #sideofveggies
Tequila Lime Shrimp Tostadas - The best way to kic Tequila Lime Shrimp Tostadas - The best way to kick off the summer months and close out Mexican food May is with these light and crispy Tequila & Lime Shrimp Tostadas.Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#Tequila #shrimptostadas #Mexicanfood #tostadas #lime #crunchy #lightmeals #guacamole #cabbageslaw #jalapenos #cincodemayo #sideofveggies
Mexican Street Corn Dip- Otherwise known as the la Mexican Street Corn Dip- Otherwise known as the lazy version of “Elote”. Easy, cheesy and crowd please-y, this dip is perfect for Summer or any taco night party! You’re going to want to save this recipe for your next BBQ for sure!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#elote #mexicanstreetcorn #streetcorn #corndip #Mexican #cotija #cilantro #Mexican #grilledcorn #tortillachips #Cheese #sideofveggies
Grilled Chicken Fajitas - What’s better than a s Grilled Chicken Fajitas - What’s better than a sizzling plate of chicken fajitas? It's always so exciting to order at a restaurant. Now you don't have to go out to get this great dish. These homemade grilled fajitas have the best marinade…hands down!Check it out! www.SideofVeggies.com...#chickenfajitas #fajitas #grilled #marinade #peppersandonions #sideofveggies
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