Paul Kushner
The Frozen Paloma is cool, tart, and packed with refreshing citrus flavor. It blends fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, tequila, and a touch of simple syrup with plenty of ice for a smooth, slushy drink that’s perfect on a hot day. The bold grapefruit flavor shines through, balanced by the tequila and a little sweetness to keep it easy to sip. Serve it in a salt-rimmed glass with a slice of grapefruit or lime on top. Whether you’re by the pool or just kicking back, this frozen twist on the classic Paloma keeps things light, bright, and seriously refreshing.
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Tasting Notes
The Frozen Paloma is a crisp and refreshing cocktail with a smooth, icy texture. The bold flavor of tequila pairs perfectly with the tart bite of grapefruit and the bright zing of fresh lime juice. Agave syrup adds just enough sweetness to round everything out without overpowering the citrus notes. The salted and tajín-rimmed glass gives each sip a pop of seasoning that enhances the flavors. Served ice-cold and slushy, this drink is perfect for cooling down on a warm day. The grapefruit slice garnish adds a fresh, clean aroma that pairs perfectly with the drink’s citrus kick.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a strong blender to crush the ice cubes and create a smooth slushy texture. A jigger makes it easy to measure the tequila, agave, and lime juice accurately. Use a margarita glass for serving, which has enough space for the frozen mixture and garnishes. To prepare the rim, have a small plate or shallow dish for the salt and tajín mixture. A knife and cutting board are needed to slice the grapefruit for garnish. For the best results, chill the glass before serving to keep the drink icy and refreshing longer.
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila
- ½ cup frozen grapefruit juice ice cubes
- 1 oz agave syrup
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- Garnish: grapefruit slice
- Salt and Tajín (for rimming)
Instructions
- Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it into a mix of salt and Tajín. Set aside.
- Add tequila, frozen grapefruit juice ice cubes, agave syrup, and lime juice to a blender. Blend until smooth and slushy.
- Pour the blended mixture into the prepared glass.
- Top with a fresh grapefruit slice for a vibrant finish.
Pro Tips
- Freeze fresh grapefruit juice in advance to make flavorful ice cubes that keep the drink from watering down.
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest flavor.
- For the rim, combine equal parts salt and tajín on a small plate and coat the glass evenly for a balanced mix of tang and spice.
- Choose a good-quality tequila, preferably blanco or reposado, depending on how smooth or bold you like the flavor.
- If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of grapefruit juice or water to adjust. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
When to Serve
The Frozen Paloma is ideal for hot summer afternoons, pool parties, and weekend cookouts. Its refreshing citrus flavor and icy texture make it perfect for cooling off on a warm day. Serve it during happy hour or as a welcome drink at casual gatherings. It’s also a great option for brunch menus or any outdoor event where light, flavorful drinks are on the table. Because the recipe is easy to scale up, it works well for batch preparation when you’re hosting a crowd.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- For a smooth and clean flavor, use a good-quality blanco tequila such as Espolòn, Cazadores, or Olmeca Altos.
- If you prefer a richer flavor with subtle oak notes, try a reposado like Herradura or Casamigos.
- Make sure to chill the tequila before blending to keep the drink extra cold.
- For agave syrup, choose a pure organic option like Madhava or Wholesome to keep the sweetness light and natural.
- When it comes to the grapefruit juice, fresh-squeezed works best for freezing into ice cubes, giving the drink a brighter, fresher flavor.
Similar Cocktails
- Frozen Mango Margarita
- Coconut Blueberry Margarita
- Spicy Green Margarita
- Peaches and Cream Margarita
- Dragonfruit Diva
Equipment
- Small plate for rimming
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila
- ½ cup frozen grapefruit juice ice cubes
- 1 oz agave syrup
- 0.5 oz lime juice
- Garnish: grapefruit slice
- Salt and Tajín for rimming
Instructions
- Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it into a mix of salt and Tajín. Set aside.
- Add tequila, frozen grapefruit juice ice cubes, agave syrup, and lime juice to a blender. Blend until smooth and slushy.
- Pour the blended mixture into the prepared glass.
- Top with a fresh grapefruit slice for a vibrant finish.
Notes
Pro Tips
- For extra tanginess, add a splash of fresh grapefruit juice before blending.
- Freeze fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice into ice cubes in advance for the freshest flavor.
- Add a splash of club soda after blending for a lighter, bubbly texture.
