News

Qdoba tests whole wheat tortillas, retails salsa

July 20, 2011

Qdoba Mexican Grill is testing whole wheat tortillas at all of the chain's greater Seattle and Portland, Ore.-area locations (excluding SEATAC). Available now, Qdoba’s whole wheat tortillas offer guests a lower-calorie, less fat menu option than traditional flour tortillas.

“In addition to offering vital nutrients such as antioxidants, B vitamins and dietary fiber, increased consumption of whole wheat may improve one’s health in a variety of ways,” said Amanda Stephens, a registered dietitian based in Pasadena, Calif. “People who eat more whole wheat products may lower their risk of metabolic syndrome, Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.”

From its “naked” ordering option (without the tortilla) and fat-free, 100-percent vegetarian black and pinto beans to the nationwide rollout of its expanded Kid’s Menu and the launch of its Craft 2 menu in 2010, Qdoba has continued to provide guests with ways to create and customize their own healthier menu options. Qdoba also recently replaced its existing flour tortilla at all of its restaurants with a new flour tortilla that is lower in fat and calories and higher in fiber than the previous offering.

“Mexican cuisine often has a stereotype of being unhealthy, but in reality, true Mexican fare utilizes plenty of fresh ingredients and can be very healthy,” said Ted Stoner, Qdoba’s head chef and director of strategic product development. “Our new whole wheat tortillas reflect our continued dedication to offering our guests healthier menu options without sacrificing flavor.”

The company also has announced the availability of two of the restaurant’s most popular salsas for retail purchase at participating Denver Metro, Boulder, Colorado Springs and Dillon, Colo., locations. Available now for a limited time, Qdoba guests can take home a 16 oz. jar of Qdoba’s Salsa Verde or Salsa Roja for $4.99 each.

Qdoba’s Salsa Verde features tomatillos, jalapeno chiles and garlic to create a medium heat salsa. In Qdoba’s Salsa Roja, sweet fire-roasted tomatoes are blended with fresh jalapenos, cumin, oregano and other spices.

“Our Salsa Roja and Salsa Verde have been guest favorites for years and our customers often ask if they can buy jars of them to use in their own kitchens,” Stoner said. “Salsa is the perfect way to add bold flavor and healthy ingredients to any favorite home-cooked meal without adding unnecessary fat or tons of extra calories.”

Qdoba will donate 10 cents of every retail salsa sale to the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Qdoba’s national charity partner since 2008, Starlight is dedicated to helping seriously ill children and their families cope with their illnesses through entertainment, education and family activities. Since 2008, Qdoba has donated nearly $250,000 in financial contributions and in-kind support.