Paloma Cocktail Recipe: How to Make the Best Refreshing Grapefruit Tequila Drink
Zesty grapefruit and lime unite for a light, fizzy refresher perfect for gatherings.
What Is a Paloma Cocktail?
The Paloma is a classic Mexican cocktail revered for its bright, citrusy flavor and effortless refreshment. This drink centers around tequila blanco, fresh grapefruit juice, a splash of lime, and grapefruit soda, creating a balance between tart, sweet, and fizzy—making it the ideal warm-weather sipper. The Paloma is often considered the margarita’s lighter, fruitier cousin, but it stands out for its unique grapefruit character.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Paloma is beloved for its simplicity, versatility, and crowd-pleasing flavor. It’s quick to mix—ready in just about five minutes—and easy to batch for gatherings. The combination of fresh citrus and sparkling soda creates a lively, invigorating drink that’s both accessible and special enough for entertaining.
Key Ingredients
The hallmark of a great Paloma is its freshness and quality of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Tequila blanco: Choose a high-quality unaged tequila for a clean, crisp base that lets the grapefruit shine.
- Fresh grapefruit juice: Opt for freshly squeezed pink or red grapefruit juice for vibrant flavor.
- Fresh lime juice: Adds zesty acidity to balance the sweetness of the soda.
- Grapefruit soda: Jarritos de Toronja is traditional, but Squirt, Fresca, or other grapefruit sodas work well.
- Salt: A pinch enhances and rounds out the flavors; a salted rim is optional but recommended.
- Ice: Plenty of crushed ice keeps the drink cool and refreshing.
- Garnishes: Grapefruit slices and lime wedges add flair and aroma.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tequila blanco | 6 oz. (for 3 drinks) | Unaged for best flavor |
| Fresh lime juice | 1.5 oz. | Freshly squeezed |
| Fresh grapefruit juice | 6 oz. | Preferably pink or red |
| Grapefruit soda | 12 oz. | Jarritos, Squirt, or Fresca |
| Salt | Pinch | For rim and balance |
| Garnishes | Grapefruit slice, lime wedge | Optional salted rim |
Step-by-Step Paloma Cocktail Recipe
Follow these simple steps for a flawless Paloma every time:
- Prep the glasses: If you like a salted rim, rub the rim of each glass with a lime wedge, then dip it into a plate of kosher salt (or Tajín for a spicy kick).
- Mix the base: Divide 6 oz. tequila blanco, 1.5 oz. fresh lime juice, and 6 oz. fresh grapefruit juice between the glasses. Add a pinch of salt to each and stir to combine.
- Add ice: Fill each glass about three-quarters full with crushed ice.
- Top with soda: Pour 12 oz. grapefruit soda evenly over the ice in each glass.
- Garnish and serve: Add a slice of fresh grapefruit and a lime wedge to each glass. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Best Paloma
- Fresh is best: Always use freshly squeezed grapefruit and lime juice for the brightest flavor. In a pinch, 100% store-bought grapefruit juice works, but avoid concentrate.
- Soda swap: If grapefruit soda is unavailable, mix fresh grapefruit juice with sparkling water and a touch of simple syrup or agave nectar to mimic the soda’s sweetness.
- Tequila choice: Blanco tequila is traditional, but reposado can be used for a slightly deeper flavor. Avoid añejo, as its oakiness competes with the citrus.
- Batching: Since Palomas are built in the glass, you can mix tequila, juices, and salt ahead of time in a pitcher. Add soda and garnishes just before serving for maximum fizz.
- Mocktail version: Omit the tequila for a refreshing, alcohol-free grapefruit soda drink that’s just as enjoyable.
Paloma vs. Margarita: What’s the Difference?
Both cocktails are citrusy, tequila-based favorites, but they have distinct profiles:
| Aspect | Paloma | Margarita |
|---|---|---|
| Main Citrus | Grapefruit (juice and soda) | Lime (juice only) |
| Sweetener | Grapefruit soda (natural sweetness) | Orange liqueur (Triple Sec, Cointreau) |
| Texture | Fizzy, light | Smooth, sometimes frozen or on the rocks |
| Garnish | Grapefruit slice, lime wedge, salted rim | Lime wheel, salted rim |
| Flavor Profile | Tart, subtly sweet, refreshing | Tangy, slightly sweet, robust |
The Paloma is lighter and fruitier, while the margarita is richer and more citrus-forward, thanks to the orange liqueur.
Variations and Twists
The Paloma is wonderfully adaptable. Try these creative riffs:
- Spicy Paloma: Add a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of chili powder to the glass before mixing.
- Herbal Paloma: Muddle fresh basil or rosemary with the juices for an aromatic twist.
- Frozen Paloma: Blend all ingredients (except soda) with ice for a slushy version; top with soda for fizz.
- Mezcal Paloma: Substitute tequila with mezcal for a smoky edge.
- Skinny Paloma: Use diet grapefruit soda or less simple syrup for a lower-calorie option.
What others are reading
When to Serve Paloma Cocktails
- Summer parties and barbecues
- Taco Tuesdays and Mexican-themed dinners
- Brunch gatherings
- Poolside relaxation
- Any occasion calling for a refreshing, easy-to-make cocktail
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What if I can’t find grapefruit soda?
Mix fresh grapefruit juice with club soda or sparkling water, and add a little simple syrup or agave to replicate the soda’s sweetness.
Can I use bottled grapefruit juice?
Fresh is best, but if necessary, use 100% juice—not from concentrate—for decent results.
What’s the best tequila for a Paloma?
Tequila blanco is traditional, but reposado works for a slightly richer taste. Avoid añejo, as its oakiness overpowers the citrus.
Can I make a non-alcoholic Paloma?
Yes, simply omit the tequila. The drink will still be tangy and bubbly.
How do I make a big batch for a crowd?
Combine tequila, citrus juices, and salt in a pitcher. Refrigerate, then pour over ice and top with soda and garnishes just before serving.
How should I garnish a Paloma?
Use grapefruit slices, lime wedges, and a salted rim for a classic look. For extra flair, try Tajín on the rim or add a sprig of mint.
Is the Paloma shaken or stirred?
Traditionally, the Paloma is built in the glass—no shaker needed—for simplicity and to preserve the soda’s fizz.
What’s the history behind the Paloma?
The Paloma’s origins are somewhat murky, but it is a beloved Mexican cocktail, often cited as the country’s most popular tequila drink, even more common than the margarita in some regions.
Pairing Suggestions
- Serve alongside Mexican street food: tacos, quesadillas, elote (grilled corn), or fresh guacamole.
- Pair with citrus-marinated seafood, like ceviche or shrimp cocktail.
- Complement with light salads or grilled vegetables for a fresh, breezy meal.
Final Thoughts
The Paloma is a cocktail that epitomizes the spirit of summer: sunny, bright, and effortlessly refreshing. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a go-to for entertaining, while its flavor profile—tart grapefruit, zesty lime, and fizzy soda anchored by tequila—offers a delicious alternative to more common cocktails like the margarita. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with creative twists, the Paloma is sure to become a staple in your cocktail repertoire.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a36821083/paloma-cocktail-recipe/
- https://kkgo.itmwpb.com/2023/08/16/sip-on-the-pioneer-womans-refreshing-paloma-cocktail/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g43532121/summer-cocktails/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g32304317/cocktail-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g39137568/tequila-drinks/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a65158236/vanilla-sweet-tea-recipe/
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