Taco Bell is testing a new carne asada protein in Nashville and Minneapolis-St. Paul, introducing six menu items as the chain considers expanding its permanent Cantina lineup.
The new carne asada features lime-paprika marinated steak prepared sous vide for tenderness and seared for a charred finish. Inspired by traditional taco shop flavors, the protein combines citrus and savory seasonings.
The test includes six menu items featuring the new protein:
- Cantina Carne Asada Chalupa Lime Bowl
- Cantina Carne Asada Rolled Quesadilla
- Cantina Carne Asada Crispy Taco
- Cantina Carne Asada Soft Taco
- Cantina Carne Asada Burrito
- Cantina Carne Asada Street Chalupa
The lineup also introduces new ingredients, including a Sonora-style flour tortilla and purple cabbage slaw. Each item is served with an Avocado Verde Salsa packet.
The test builds on Taco Bell’s introduction of Cantina slow-roasted chicken as the company continues exploring premium protein options.
Depending on the results of the Nashville and Minneapolis-St. Paul tests, the new carne asada could eventually become a permanent addition to Taco Bell’s Cantina menu.
