Here’s a Weight Watchers-friendly version of Mexican Cornbread, with adjusted ingredients to help you stay within your SmartPoints while still enjoying a delicious and flavorful dish. I’ve included detailed instructions and estimated SmartPoints values.

Weight Watchers-Friendly Mexican Cornbread

Introduction

This Weight Watchers-friendly Mexican Cornbread is a tasty and lighter version of the classic recipe, featuring corn, jalapeños, and cheese for a zesty kick. It’s an ideal side dish for chili, soups, or any Mexican-inspired meal, with adjustments to fit your Weight Watchers plan without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour (instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any low-calorie plant-based milk)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or use a light butter substitute)
  • 2 large egg whites (instead of whole eggs to reduce fat and calories)
  • 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
  • 1 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
  • 1/4 cup non-fat Greek yogurt (instead of sour cream)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a cast iron skillet with cooking spray.
  1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, whole wheat flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  1. Combine Wet Ingredients:
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened almond milk, melted butter, and egg whites until well combined.
  1. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cornbread tender.
  1. Add Mix-Ins:
  • Fold in the corn kernels, reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, non-fat Greek yogurt, and chopped green onions (if using).
  1. Bake:
  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or skillet, spreading it out evenly.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  1. Cool and Serve:
  • Allow the cornbread to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Serve warm for the best flavor.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 170 kcal
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 9g
  • Protein: 6g

Estimated SmartPoints (per serving):** 5

Tips for a Perfect Cornbread

  • Choosing Flour: Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose increases the fiber content, which can help with satiety and overall nutrition.
  • Adjusting Sweetness: Depending on your taste preference, you can adjust the amount of sugar. If you prefer a less sweet cornbread, reduce the sugar by a tablespoon.
  • Adding Extra Flavor: For additional flavor without adding extra SmartPoints, consider mixing in spices like cumin or chili powder into the batter.
  • Serving Suggestions: This cornbread pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It’s especially great alongside a bowl of chili or a hearty soup. You can also top it with a small dollop of non-fat Greek yogurt as a light alternative to sour cream.

Enjoy this lighter version of Mexican Cornbread as a flavorful and satisfying addition to your Weight Watchers meal plan! 🌽🧀