Applebee’s jumpstarts Weight Watchers menu with new salad

24/04/06 Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar (Nasdaq: APPB) is gearing up for swimsuit season. Figuratively speaking, of course.

The nation's largest casual dining chain is freshening up its menu today with the introduction of its Southwest Cobb Salad, the latest addition to the Weight Watchers-branded portion of Applebee's menu.

The Southwest Cobb Salad is one of 10 Weight Watchers items on Applebee's menu, and the second to be added in 2006. Earlier this year, Applebee's introduced Cajun Lime Tilapia to the menu.

"The new Southwest Cobb Salad speaks to the variety of healthier items we offer and the commitment we have to continually evolve our Weight Watchers menu," said Donna McCool, brand manager for Applebee's. "Three out of four Americans are concerned about eating right, so we know we are addressing a real need with our healthier menu options.

"We also know that taste rules. That's why when we develop new Weight Watchers menu items, the most important thing is that they have to taste great. And they do.

"It's all about choice."

Applebee's forged an exclusive relationship with Weight Watchers in 2004 following months of extensive menu testing in 70 restaurants across the country. In 2005, consumers rated Applebee's No. 2 among 39 restaurant chains when it came to "satisfaction with healthy/nutritious offerings," according to Technomic Inc.'s Ahead of the Curve consumer study on health and nutrition issues.

The Southwest Cobb Salad consists of grilled chipotle chicken, shredded cheese, broccoli, diced tomatoes, shredded carrots, corn and black beans served on a bed of mixed greens. It is served with a side of cilantro ranch dressing.