The Paloma cocktail is a refreshing drink for the summer. Its crisp and citrusy taste always satisfies me. It’s 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 alcoholic beverage is a beloved choice for casual gatherings, celebrations, or hot summer days. This is how to make the Paloma cocktail:
Paloma cocktail
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.
Nutrition
SIMILAR RECIPES
How to pair
The Paloma cocktail pairs wonderfully with different foods, particularly those from Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Here are some ideal food pairings:
- Fish tacos and carnitas have enhanced flavors due to the cocktail’s citrus notes.
- Spicy guacamole recipe balances the Paloma’s tangy flavor.
- Salsa and Tortilla Chips pair well with grapefruit’s sweetness and bitterness.
- Ceviche complements the drink’s grapefruit and lime notes.
- Grilled Shrimp or Fish pairs well with the cocktail’s refreshing qualities.
- Quesadillas contrasts with the Paloma’s acidity.
- Fajitas’ bold flavors match the drink’s brightness.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn) enhances the cocktail’s citrusy taste.
- Spicy Nuts or Snack Mixes complement the Paloma’s sweetness.
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.