What is a Paloma?
A Paloma cocktail is an easy-to-make summertime favorite! This classic Mexican drink typically includes tequila, grapefruit soda, and lime juice. The combination of tart citrus flavor and sweet bubbly soda makes it the perfect way to beat the heat and enjoy a refreshing beverage.
That said, there are plenty of variations you can try for your own unique take on the traditional recipe. Whether you’re looking for something light and fruity or something more complex with herbal notes, there’s bound to be a Paloma variation that suits your taste buds just right!
Classic Paloma Recipe
For those who like to keep things simple but still want their drinks packed with flavor, this classic Paloma recipe is sure to hit the spot! All you need is tequila (preferably blanco), freshly squeezed lime juice, grapefruit soda (such as Jarritos), and a pinch of salt. Combine all ingredients in an ice-filled glass and stir until chilled. Top off with extra lime wedges if desired.
This timeless combination creates an effervescent sip that balances tangy flavors with earthy sweetness–the ideal refreshment for hot days spent outdoors in the sun. Enjoy your own version of this delicious concoction anytime!
Fruity & Fun Variations
Ready for something new? Try one of these fun variations on the classic recipe: For a tropical twist, use pineapple juice instead of lime juice; add some muddled berries or slices of mango for added sweetness; throw in some sparkling wine or champagne; top it off with ginger beer or even ginger ale; switch out regular tequila for mezcal; add fresh herbs such as mint or basil leaves…the possibilities are endless when it comes to playing around with this tasty summer sipper.
Go ahead–get creative! With these ideas in mind, mix up your next batch according to whatever suits your fancy most–you won’t regret it!.
Spicy Jalapeno Infused Version
If you love spicy cocktails then this jalapeño infused version might be right up your alley. Start by adding two thin slices of jalapeño pepper into each glass before pouring in 2 ounces each tequila blanco & grapefruit soda along with ½ ounce freshly squeezed orange juice plus 1 teaspoon honey syrup & ¼ teaspoon sea salt flakes into each glass too.
Stir everything together well before topping off each glass either prosecco/champagne/sparkling wine then garnish accordingly…your choice whether you want more jalapeños alongside some limes & oranges OR perhaps opt out entirely but make sure its served over plenty crushed ice so its nice n’ cool enough
Paloma Cocktail
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- - 2 ounces 60 ml tequila
- - 1/2 ounce lime juice
- - 4 ounces 120 ml grapefruit soda, such as Squirt or Fresca
- - salt for rim of glass optional
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Pour the tequila and lime juice over the ice.
- Top with grapefruit soda and stir gently to combine ingredients.
- Optional: Wet the rim of the glass with water or lime juice, then dip in salt before pouring in cocktail mixture.
- Garnish with a wedge of lime before serving chilled if desired. Enjoy!
Glassware
Cocktail:
The Paloma cocktail is typically served in a tall, narrow glass such as a highball or collins glass. It can also be served over ice in an old-fashioned or rocks glass.
Flavors
The Paloma is a classic tequila-based cocktail that’s perfect for summer sipping. Its light and refreshing flavor profile makes it a great alternative to heavier margaritas. The key ingredients in the Paloma are fresh lime, grapefruit juice, and tequila – usually blanco or silver.
The combination of tart citrus and sweet fruit creates a perfectly balanced drink with an array of flavors. The tartness from the limes gives way to the subtly sweet flavor of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, while the floral notes from blanco or silver tequila pair nicely with both citrus juices. To give your Paloma extra depth, you can also add agave nectar or simple syrup for sweetness as well as club soda for added effervescence.
