The Paloma cocktail is a refreshing drink for the summer. Its crisp and citrusy taste always satisfies me. This alcoholic drink is a simple yet vibrant choice for any occasion.
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Paloma cocktail Recipe
The Paloma cocktail is one of Mexico’s most popular drinks. It’s often considered more beloved in Mexico than the Margarita. Its name means “dove” in Spanish, symbolizing simplicity and elegance.
The drink combines tequila, lime juice, and grapefruit soda (often Squirt). This creates its refreshing, tangy flavor. The Paloma is often referred to as the “lazy man’s margarita” because of its easy preparation.
This cocktail pairs wonderfully with Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes, like tacos, carnitas, spicy guacamole, salsa with tortilla chips, and ceviche.
Grilled shrimp or fish highlights the Paloma’s refreshing taste, while quesadillas contrast its acidity. Fajitas and elote (Mexican street corn) match its bright, zesty profile. Spicy nuts or snack mixes are also a great pair.
This alcoholic beverage is a beloved choice for casual gatherings, celebrations, or hot summer days. This is how to make the Paloma cocktail:
Paloma cocktail
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 2 oz (60ml) tequila preferably blanco
- ½ oz (15ml) fresh lime juice
- 4 oz (120ml) grapefruit soda Squirt, Jarritos, or Fresca
- Pinch of salt
- Ice cubes
- Grapefruit wedge & salt rim optional
Instructions
- Rim a highball glass with salt by rubbing a grapefruit wedge around the rim and dipping it in salt.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes.
- Pour tequila, lime juice, and a pinch of salt into the glass.
- Top with grapefruit soda. Stir gently to combine.
- Add a grapefruit wedge and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh grapefruit juice + club soda instead of grapefruit soda for a fresher, lower-sugar option. Add 1 tsp of honey or agave syrup if you prefer some sweetness.
- Swap tequila for mezcal for a smoky twist!
- Replace tequila with more grapefruit soda or sparkling water for a mocktail version.
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Variations
The Paloma cocktail has inspired numerous creative variations. Here are some notable examples:
- Spicy Paloma adds jalapeños or jalapeño syrup.
- Lone Ranger uses gin, lemon juice, and champagne instead of grapefruit soda and lime juice.
- Paloma Mimosa replaces grapefruit soda with champagne.
- Palomita swaps tequila for vodka for a milder but citrusy variation.
- Pineapple Paloma adds pineapple juice for a tropical and fruity profile.
- Ginger Beer Paloma uses ginger beer instead of club soda.
- Rum Paloma replaces tequila with white rum for a Caribbean-inspired twist.
- Italian Paloma features Campari, Italian orange soda, and citrus juices for a bittersweet aperitivo-style drink.
- Mezcal Paloma uses Mezcal instead of tequila.
- Paloma Mocktail combines grapefruit juice, lime juice, and soda water.