Meet The Paloma : Your New Favorite Summer Cocktail

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What are the ingredients of a Paloma?

Traditionally, the Paloma cocktail is made with white tequila and grapefruit-flavored soda, such as Jarritos de Toronja. You can use any grapefruit-flavored soda, such as fresca or even Squirt, but it is just as delicious with a mix of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice and sparkling water. In the latter case, if you like sweeter cocktails, you can add a little simple syrup or agave nectar. We like to add lime to give acidity and a more complex citrus flavor.

Does grapefruit juice have to be fresh?

The taste of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice is incomparable, so it should always be your first choice. Store-bought juice is not the same. However, you can use store-bought grapefruit juice to make a Paloma. Just make sure it is 100% grapefruit juice and not grapefruit juice concentrate.

What tequila should I use for a Paloma?

Tequila blanco is the traditional tequila, but you can also use tequila reposado if you prefer. We discourage aged tequila, or tequila aged for a long time in oak, as it clashes with the lively and refreshing flavors of the grapefruit soda.

What is the difference between a margarita and a paloma?

While they both may be citrusy tequila cocktails, a classic margarita calls for lime juice and an orange liqueur that adds a touch of sweetness. The Paloma, however, relies on grapefruit juice, lime juice, and a splash of fizzy grapefruit soda for its tart, subtly sweet, citrus punch. You could call the two of them cocktail cousins.

YIELDS: 3 serving(s)

PREP TIME: 5 mins

TOTAL TIME: 5 mins

Ingredients :

  • 6 oz. tequila blanco
  • 1 1/2 oz. fresh lime juice
  • 6 oz. fresh grapefruit juice
  • Pinch of salt
  • Crushed ice, for serving
  • 12 oz. grapefruit soda, such as Jarritos, Squirt or Fresca
  • 3 slices fresh pink or red grapefruit, for serving
  • 3 lime wedges, for serving

Directions :

  1. 1Divide the tequila, lime and grapefruit juices among the three glasses. Add a pinch of salt to each glass. Fill three-quarters full of ice, then stir to combine. Top with grapefruit soda, then garnish with a slice of grapefruit and a lime wedge.

Tip: For a salted rim, spread about 1/4-cup kosher salt onto a small plate. Rub the tops of the glasses with the lime wedges and dip into the salt, before making the cocktail.