Core Components of the Qdoba Surf and Turf Bowl
At the heart of the Qdoba Surf and Turf bowl is the dynamic duo of grilled steak and Citrus Lime Shrimp. This surf and turf combo provides a rich and flavorful protein base for the rest of the meal. The steak is grilled to order, offering a smoky, savory element, while the shrimp is sautéed in a zesty citrus-lime sauce for a refreshing, tangy contrast. The combination is designed to deliver a premium fast-casual experience with every bite.
Customizable Bases: Rice and Beans
Guests can choose the foundation of their bowl from a selection of bases, allowing for a personalized meal that fits their dietary preferences.
- Cilantro-Lime Rice: Available in both white and brown rice options, this base provides a fragrant and flavorful bed for the other ingredients.
- Black Beans: A classic Mexican cuisine staple, these beans add a rich, earthy flavor and a boost of plant-based protein.
- Pinto Beans: For those who prefer a creamier texture, pinto beans offer a hearty, satisfying alternative.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option for guests following keto or other specific diets.
Fresh and Flavorful Toppings
The true beauty of the Qdoba bowl lies in its vast array of customizable toppings and sauces, which are free of charge. This allows for a truly personalized culinary creation.
Salsas and Sauces:
- Pico de Gallo: A classic mix of fresh chopped tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
- Roasted Chili Corn Salsa: Adds a sweet, smoky flavor with a touch of heat.
- Salsa Verde: A tangy, mild green salsa.
- Fiery Habanero Salsa: For those seeking a significant kick of spice.
- Chipotle Crema: A smoky, creamy sauce that adds richness.
Toppings:
- Shredded Cheese: A mild, creamy addition.
- Lettuce: Provides a cool, crisp texture.
- Pickled Red Onions: Adds a tangy, sharp bite.
- Jalapeños: For extra heat and crunch.
- Sour Cream: Cools down the spice and adds a creamy consistency.
- Guacamole: A creamy, signature fresh avocado dip.
- Three-Cheese Queso: A velvety, rich cheese sauce.
A Closer Look at the Proteins
The surf and turf combination is what sets this bowl apart from other fast-casual options. The pairing of tender, marinated steak with tangy, citrus-infused shrimp creates a flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting. The in-house marination process ensures the steak is juicy, while the sustainably sourced shrimp is sautéed fresh, maintaining its succulent texture. This attention to detail in the preparation of the proteins is what elevates the bowl's overall quality and appeal.
Nutritional Considerations
While the Qdoba Surf and Turf bowl can be a hearty and satisfying meal, its nutritional profile varies significantly based on customization. A standard bowl with steak, shrimp, rice, and beans, before toppings, can contain approximately 630–650 calories. However, adding copious amounts of cheese, queso, and sour cream will increase the calorie and fat content. For those mindful of macros, skipping the rice and beans for cauliflower rice can create a keto-friendly option, while loading up on veggies and leaner salsas can keep the meal lighter and lower in sodium. Protein content is typically high, often exceeding 40 grams, making it a great option for a satisfying, post-workout meal.
Comparison Table: Surf and Turf Bowl vs. Burrito
| Feature | Surf and Turf Bowl | Surf and Turf Burrito |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Proteins | Grilled Steak, Citrus Lime Shrimp | Grilled Steak, Citrus Lime Shrimp |
| Carbs | Customizable base (rice or cauliflower) | Large flour tortilla (higher carbs) |
| Calories (Base) | Approximately 630–650 | Can exceed 1000 with tortilla |
| Free Add-Ons | Guacamole and Queso | Guacamole and Queso (applies to entrée) |
| Dietary Flexibility | Easier for low-carb, keto diets by skipping rice/beans | Less suitable for low-carb diets due to tortilla |
| Ease of Eating | Best eaten with a fork, can be messy | Contained within a tortilla, easier to eat on the go |
Conclusion
For fans of flavor and customization, the Qdoba Surf and Turf bowl offers a robust and satisfying meal with a winning combination of grilled steak and Citrus Lime Shrimp. Its extensive list of customizable ingredients—from bases and salsas to free guacamole and queso—ensures that every bowl can be tailored to individual tastes and dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a low-carb, high-protein meal or a decadent feast of creamy cheese and fresh toppings, this limited-time menu item consistently delivers on its promise of big, bold flavor.
For more information on Qdoba's ingredients and nutritional information, you can visit the official Qdoba Food Philosophy page.
