Paloma

Paloma – Looking for an easy, refreshing and citrusy cocktail? This classic Mexican Paloma cocktail is made with silver tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, a splash of simple syrup and sparkling water, and is served with a salt rim. This is a versatile cocktail that can be adjusted to your liking.

Embrace the flavors of Mexico and shake up a batch of a classic Paloma. This citrusy, refreshing and tangy tequila cocktail is perfect for those who don’t like sweet cocktails and love the taste of tequila. Made with a freshly squeezed grapefruit and lime juices, this cocktail is perfect for warmer-weather season.

This post is about how to make Paloma.

EASY PALOMA RECIPE

If you’re a fan of tequila cocktails, you are going to obsess over this citrusy, fresh and salty Paloma cocktail. Paloma is a classic tequila-based Mexican drink that is bubbly and citrusy. A traditional paloma cocktail consists of tequila, lime juice, and grapefruit soda. Our recipe is kicked up a notch with a fresh grapefruit juice and sparkling water. Grapefruit always pair insanely well with the tequila, making this cocktail extra fresh and flavorful.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

A Classic Cocktail. If you’re a fan of all the classic cocktails, try making this delicious Paloma too. You won’t regret it!

Perfect for Cinco de Mayo. Whip up a batch of this drink for Cinco de Mayo celebration and watch it disappear. The perfect refreshment for any occasion!

Easy To Make. Simply, juice the grapefruit (or use any grapefruit juice of your choice) and shake it all together.

INGREDIENTS NOTES

Here’s everything you need to make this easy Paloma. See the recipe card down below for exact measurements.

HOW TO MAKE PALOMA

Start by rimming the glass with salt so you can enjoy your cocktail right after making it. Rub a lime wedge along the rim. Dip in cosher salt, and set aside.

Juice your grapefruit and limes in a juicer. (Highly recommended!)

In a shaker, add ice and combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice and simple syrup. Shake well.

Add ice to your glass and pour the cocktail through the strainer into your glass.

Top with sparkling water and garnishes of your choice (grapefruit slice, lime wheels, rosemary sprig, etc.)

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

• I highly recommend using a freshly squeezed grapefruit juice and lime juice as this will yield the best flavor possible.

• If you can’t squeeze the grapefruit and lime juices, feel free to skip the step and add a grapefruit soda (as in the classic recipe).

• To make this a spicy Paloma, try adding a jalapeno simple syrup.

RECIPE FAQ’S

Q. WHICH TEQUILA SHOULD I USE IN THIS RECIPE?

A. This recipe calls for silver tequila (Blanco). It’s a type of tequila that’s bottled directly after being distilled, so it is rarely aged. Do not use spiced tequila – it will change the flavor profile because of the smokiness it has.

Q: Should I add ice to the drink?

A: Yes, adding ice keeps the drink chilled and refreshing.

Q: Can I double the recipe for a party?

A: Yes, just double all the ingredients, and use a larger pitcher or punch bowl.

Q: How can I make the PALOMA more visually appealing?

A: Garnish with lime wedges, grapefruit wheels, rosemary sprig, mint, or green edible flowers to make the colors pop.

Q. HOW TO MAKE THIS COCKTAIL SWEETER?

A. To make this drink sweeter, adjust the amount of simple syrup to taste. Add more, if desired.

Q. WHAT DOES A PALOMA TASTE LIKE?

A. A Paloma cocktail tastes like a classic grapefruit version of a margarita. Paloma is a bit less sweet and lighter with the addition of sparkling water.

Q. What is the difference between a margarita and a paloma?

A. Most notably, a paloma is flavored with grapefruit juice, whereas a margarita is very lime-forward.

Q. WHAT CAN I USE INSTEAD OF GRAPEFRUIT?

A. Although the grapefruit juice is what makes this a Paloma, many people can’t have grapefruit since it reacts with some medications. Instead, you can try the juice of blood oranges or any kind of oranges you can find.

LOVED OUR PALOMA RECIPE? PIN IT FOR LATER!