This Easy Refreshing Paloma Cocktail is the perfect drink for warm days! It’s made with zesty grapefruit juice, tangy lime, and a splash of soda for fizz.
I love how simple it is to mix up this cocktail! Just shake, pour, and enjoy—perfect for sipping by the pool or at a backyard BBQ. Cheers to good times! 🍹
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tequila Blanco: This is the base spirit for your Paloma. If you prefer a different flavor, you can use mezcal for a smoky twist. Just remember, the flavors will change slightly.
Fresh Grapefruit Juice: The star of this cocktail! Fresh is best, but if you can’t find it, bottled grapefruit juice works too. Make sure it’s not too sweet—look for 100% juice.
Simple Syrup: It’s easy to make! Combine equal parts sugar and water and heat until dissolved. If you want a healthier option, try agave nectar or honey. Adjust sweetness to your taste!
Club Soda: This adds the refreshing fizz. You can also use flavored sparkling water for an extra twist—grapefruit or lime flavors pair nicely!
How Do I Perfectly Rim My Glass with Salt?
Rimming your glass adds a nice flavor boost. Here’s how to do it: Start with a lime wedge and run it around the rim of your glass. Then, dip the rim into coarse salt—don’t be shy! This step gives your cocktail a delightful edge.
- Use coarse salt or kosher salt for a better texture.
- If you want a unique flavor, mix a bit of chili powder with the salt for a hint of spice!
Easy Refreshing Paloma Cocktail
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz tequila blanco
- 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- Club soda or sparkling water, to top
- Ice cubes
- Lime slices, for garnish
- Grapefruit wedge, for garnish
- Coarse salt, for rimming the glass
Time Needed:
This refreshing Paloma cocktail takes just about 5 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a couple of minutes gathering your ingredients and mixing, plus a little time to rim the glass. Perfect for a quick and tasty drink at any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glass:
Start by rimming your glass with lime juice. Simply run the wedge around the rim, then dip it into coarse salt so it sticks. Set this beautiful glass aside for now.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a cocktail shaker, pour in the tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and a pinch of salt. These delicious ingredients will come together for a refreshing flavor!
3. Shake It Up:
Add some ice to your shaker and shake it vigorously! Aim for about 15 seconds, or until the mixture feels nice and cold. You want to chill all those wonderful flavors.
4. Fill Your Glass:
Now, grab your prepared glass and fill it with ice cubes. This will keep your cocktail really cold with every sip!
5. Strain and Pour:
Use a strainer to carefully pour the shaken cocktail mixture into the glass over the ice. Enjoy watching it come to life!
6. Add the Fizz:
Top off your drink with club soda or sparkling water. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together, but don’t lose those lovely bubbles!
7. Garnish:
Finish it off by adding a couple of lime slices inside the drink and place a grapefruit wedge on the rim. This not only looks pretty but adds an extra pop of flavor!
8. Cheers and Enjoy:
Serve immediately and take a moment to enjoy the refreshing, zesty flavors of your homemade Paloma cocktail. Cheers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Tequila?
Absolutely! While tequila blanco gives a fresh and clean taste, you can also use tequila reposado for a richer flavor. Just note that it may alter the cocktail’s profile a bit!
What Can I Substitute for Simple Syrup?
If you don’t have simple syrup, you can use agave nectar or honey instead. Just make sure to dissolve them well in the drink as they may not blend as smoothly.
How to Adjust the Sweetness?
Feel free to adjust the amount of simple syrup based on your preference. Start with 1/2 oz, taste, and add more if you like it sweeter. Just remember that grapefruit juice can vary in sweetness!
How Do I Store Leftover Ingredients?
If you have leftover grapefruit juice, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For tequila and other ingredients, keep them sealed in a cool, dark place. Enjoy your next Paloma soon!
