Paul Kushner
Crisp, citrusy, and effortlessly refreshing, the Paloma is a classic Mexican cocktail that’s as simple as it is delicious. Made with smooth tequila, fresh lime juice, and a hint of salt, this cocktail is topped with bubbly grapefruit soda for the perfect balance of tart and sweet. Served over ice and garnished with a fresh lime wheel, the Paloma is light, invigorating, and ideal for warm days or casual sipping. Whether you’re relaxing at home or hosting friends, this tequila-forward favorite is always a crowd-pleaser!
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Tasting Notes
The Paloma is a light, citrusy, and refreshing tequila cocktail with a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and slightly salty flavors. The crisp grapefruit soda adds a refreshing fizz, while fresh lime juice enhances the tangy brightness. A pinch of salt rounds out the flavors, making each sip smooth and satisfying.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a highball glass for serving, a jigger for accurate measurements, and a bar spoon for stirring. A citrus juicer ensures fresh lime juice, and ice is essential for keeping the drink chilled and crisp.
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila high-quality
- 1/2 oz lime juice fresh-squeezed
- salt pinch
- grapefruit soda to top it off
- lime wheel or wedge to garnish
Instructions
- Add ice to a highball glass
- Add the tequila, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Top off the mixture with grapefruit soda and stir.
- Use a lime wheel or wedge for a garnish.
- Serve, sip, and enjoy your fresh cocktail
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lime juice for the best citrus kick—bottled juice won’t deliver the same brightness.
- Upgrade your Paloma by using freshly squeezed grapefruit juice and club soda instead of grapefruit soda.
- For a smoky twist, use mezcal instead of tequila.
- Rim the glass with salt or Tajín for extra flavor.
When to Serve
The Paloma is perfect for hot summer days, brunch, beach outings, and casual happy hours. Its refreshing and effervescent nature makes it a go-to for day drinking, barbecues, and taco nights.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For a smooth and flavorful Paloma, use high-quality tequila blanco like Espolòn, Patrón, Don Julio, or Casamigos. For grapefruit soda, Jarritos, Squirt, or Fever-Tree Sparkling Pink Grapefruit work well.
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy Paloma, here are five similar cocktails to try:
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila high-quality
- 1/2 oz lime juice fresh-squeezed
- salt pinch
- grapefruit soda to top it off
- lime wheel or wedge to garnish
Instructions
- Add ice to a highball glass
- Add the tequila, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Top off the mixture with grapefruit soda and stir.
- Use a lime wheel or wedge for a garnish.
- Serve, sip, and enjoy your fresh cocktail
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