Weight Watchers Mexican Rice – Easy, Flavorful & Low-Point
Weight Watchers Mexican Rice is a flavorful homemade side dish featuring fluffy rice, tomato sauce, garlic, and warm Mexican-inspired spices. Measured oil and simple pantry ingredients make it practical for readers planning meals around their personal WW budgets. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, turkey tacos, fish, or beans and is convenient for meal prep. Make a batch, portion it evenly, and customize the seasonings to suit your family.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup plain tomato sauce
- 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika optional
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt or to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro optional
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice optional
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cool water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water becomes less cloudy. Drain thoroughly.
- Heat the olive oil in a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add the drained rice and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the tomato sauce and broth. Stir once, season cautiously with salt, and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15–20 minutes or according to the rice package directions.
- Check that the grains are tender and the liquid has been absorbed. If needed, add a small splash of hot broth or water and cook a little longer.
- Turn off the heat and leave the rice covered for 5–10 minutes.
- Fluff gently with a fork. Stir in the optional cilantro and lime juice, taste, and adjust the seasoning.
- Divide into six equal servings and serve warm.