Paloma Cocktail Recipe
You’ve been lied to. Margaritas hog the spotlight while the Paloma—crisp, refreshing, and stupidly easy to make—lurks in the shadows. One sip of this grapefruit-tequila magic, and you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with lime-and-salt theatrics. Ready to upgrade your cocktail game?
This isn’t just another tequila mixer. The Paloma balances tangy grapefruit, zingy lime, and smoky tequila with a fizzy kiss of soda. No syrupy sweeteners, no fussy steps—just a drink that tastes like summer in a glass. Plus, it’s way more interesting than beer.
Prep time: 3 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes (because you’re not cooking, genius)
Total time: 3 minutes
Servings: 1 (double it if you’re sharing, but why would you?)
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rim the glass: Run a lime wedge around the rim, then dip it in salt or tajín. Pro move: Use half salt, half tajín for extra flair.
- Shake the booze: In a shaker, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup with ice. Shake like you mean it—10 seconds max.
- Strain and pour: Fill your rimmed glass with ice, strain the mix over it, and top with grapefruit soda. Stir gently unless you enjoy flat soda.
- Garnish and go: Slap on a grapefruit wedge or lime wheel. Drink immediately—this isn’t a museum piece.
Nutritional Values
Calories: ~180 (blame the agave syrup)
Carbs: 14g (grapefruit’s fault)
Sugar: 12g (still better than a piña colada)
Alcohol: 14g (the fun part)
Storage Instructions
Short answer: Don’t. This isn’t a batch cocktail—it’s best fresh. But if you must, mix everything except the soda, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, and add soda right before serving. Otherwise, you’ll get a sad, flat mess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cheap tequila: If it’s not 100% agave, it’s gasoline with regrets.
- Bottled citrus juice: Fresh juice takes 30 seconds. Be less lazy.
- Over-shaking: You’re not making a martini. 10 seconds is plenty.
- Skipping the rim: The salt/tajín balances the sweetness. Don’t be boring.
Alternatives for the Rebellious
- Mezcal Paloma: Swap tequila for mezcal if you love smoke.
- Spicy version: Add 2 slices of jalapeño to the shaker.
- Low-sugar hack: Skip the syrup, use diet grapefruit soda (but expect side-eye).
- Beer Paloma: Top with a splash of light beer for a chelada twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled grapefruit juice?
Technically yes, but it’ll taste like regret. Fresh juice is non-negotiable for flavor snobs.
What if I don’t have grapefruit soda?
Mix club soda with 0.5 oz extra agave syrup and a splash of grapefruit juice. Close enough.
Is reposado tequila okay?
Sure, but blanco’s crispness works better. Reposado leans woody—save it for sipping.
Can I batch this for a party?
Mix everything except the soda and ice. Add those per glass to avoid a fizzy disaster.
Why is it called a Paloma?
It means “dove” in Spanish. No one knows why. Maybe doves love tequila?
Final Thoughts
The Paloma is the low-effort, high-reward cocktail you’ve been ignoring. It’s faster than texting your ex, cheaper than therapy, and tastier than whatever’s in your fridge right now. Grab a grapefruit, pour the tequila, and thank us later. Cheers—or as they say in Mexico, Salud!
