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Mexican
Easy

Paloma

A popular and refreshing Mexican cocktail, the Paloma is a simple yet delightful mix of tequila, grapefruit soda, and fresh lime juice, often served with a salt rim.

Paloma
Tequila
Grapefruit Soda
Lime
Refreshing
Cocktail
Mexican
4.7 / 5
4 min
Prep Time
Servings
Paloma
$6.00
Ingredients
0/6 ready
Other
Other
Other
Spices & Seasonings
Other
Other
Step-by-Step Instructions
1

Prepare the glass

If desired, rim a highball glass with salt. Moisten the rim with a lime wedge, then dip it into a shallow plate of salt. Fill the glass with 1 serving of ice.

💡 Tips:

  • •A salt rim enhances the grapefruit flavor, similar to a Margarita.
Estimated time: 1 min
2

Add tequila and lime

Pour 2 ounces (60 ml) blanco tequila and 0.5 ounce (15 ml) fresh lime juice into the prepared glass over the ice. If not rimming, you can add a small pinch of salt directly to the glass here.

💡 Tips:

  • •Fresh lime juice is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the soda.
Estimated time: 1 min
3

Top with grapefruit soda

Gently top the mixture with 4 ounces (120 ml) of grapefruit soda. Pour slowly to preserve the carbonation.

💡 Tips:

  • •The choice of grapefruit soda significantly impacts the flavor; some are sweeter, some tarter.
Estimated time: 1 min
4

Stir gently and garnish

Stir once or twice very gently to combine the ingredients without losing too much carbonation. Garnish with 1 lime wedge or a grapefruit slice.

💡 Tips:

  • •Avoid over-stirring to keep the drink fizzy.
Estimated time: 1 min
Flavor Profile
Citrusy
Sweet
Tart
Bubbly
Alcohol Content
10-15% ABV
Enjoy responsibly!
Fun Fact
While the Margarita is more widely known outside of Mexico, the Paloma is often considered the most popular tequila-based cocktail within Mexico itself, cherished for its refreshing simplicity.
Bartender's Tips
  • 💡For a less sweet Paloma, use fresh grapefruit juice (2 oz) and top with club soda (2-3 oz) instead of grapefruit soda, adding simple syrup to taste.
  • 💡Experiment with different brands of tequila and grapefruit soda to find your favorite combination.
  • 💡A dash of agave nectar can be added if you prefer a sweeter drink, especially if using a very tart grapefruit soda.
  • 💡Consider a spicier version by muddling a thin slice of jalapeño with the lime.

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Paloma Drink Recipe Made Easy & Simple