KANSAS CITY — Restaurant operators are expanding their menus with limited-time offerings to capture consumer attention.

St. Louis-based Panera Bread has launched several summer items inspired by the flavors of Italian cuisine. The company’s Italian steak and mozzarella sandwich features marinated steak, mozzarella, tomato, arugula, basil, garlic aioli and Italian dressing, and Panera’s Italian market salad is made with mixed greens, arugula, soppressata, shredded asiago cheese, basil, salt, pepper, chickpeas, croutons and Italian dressing. The summer LTOs also includes a strawberry basil lemonade fresca with agave nectar.

“With these new summer menu items, we wanted to channel the vibrant flavors of Italy in a way that was fresh and exciting for our guests,” said Scott Uehlein, vice president of culinary at Panera Bread. “It’s all about bringing together bold flavors and thoughtful pairings.”

Taco Bell Corp., a Yum! Brands subsidiary, is leaning into the beverage category with the nationwide launch of refrescas. The lineup includes agua refrescas mixed with freeze-dried fruit pieces and green tea, in varieties like strawberry passionfruit, dragon fruit berry and mango peach; Rockstar Energy refrescas, in pineapple lime and tropical punch flavors; and strawberry lime refresca freezes.

“We're seeing today that people, especially younger consumers, are reaching for refreshing drinks as part of their lifestyle, whether it’s for energy or a sweet treat throughout the day,” said Liz Matthews, global chief food innovation officer. “So, we’re making big investments to become the ultimate beverage stop where our fans can expect to see the same bold, unexpected creativity in their cups as they do on their plates.”

CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc. brand Hardee’s has unveiled its latest LTO, the barbecue pulled pork frisco sandwich. The item combines Angus beef with slow smoked pulled pork, American cheese, crispy onions, pickles and Sweet Baby Ray's Sweet ‘n Spicy barbecue sauce on sourdough bread.

“Our new menu items reflect our dedication to culinary innovation and the high-quality flavors and ingredients our guests desire,” said Sarah Breymaier, vice president of brand marketing at Hardee's.