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Enjoy the perfect Paloma cocktail, a refreshing tequila drink with fresh grapefruit, a light and citrusy easy-to-make summer favorite. Let's make it!
Come learn how to make a paloma.
Paloma Ingredients
- Tequila: 2 oz blanco tequila
- Fresh Grapefruit Juice: 2 oz freshly squeezed
- Fresh Lime Juice: 0.5 oz freshly squeezed
- Simple Syrup: 0.5 oz agave nectar
- Grapefruit Bitters: 1 dash (optional)
- Soda Water: 2 oz Topochico, Fresca, Squirt, or sparkling water
- Ice: As needed
- Coarse Sea Salt: For rim, or mix with tajin
- Garnish: Grapefruit or lime wedge, pinch of salt
How to Make a Paloma
- Shake Ingredients:
- Combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, agave nectar, and grapefruit bitters (if using) in a shaker with ice. Shake well.
- Prepare Glass:
- Rub rim of cocktail glass with lime wedge and dip in coarse salt or salt and tajin mix.
- Strain and Top:
- Strain mixture into prepared glass filled with ice. Top with grapefruit soda.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with grapefruit or lime wedge. Serve immediately.
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Recipe Tips & Notes
Shake the paloma ingredients a good 30 seconds to get a better infusion of flavor. As a variation, try a smoky mezcal paloma, which is how I enjoy mine.
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Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of tequila is best for a Paloma?
Blanco tequila is ideal for a Paloma due to its crisp, clean flavor that blends well with citrus juices.
- → Can I use bottled grapefruit juice instead of fresh?
Fresh juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled can be used if it's 100% juice and not overly sweetened.
- → Is it necessary to use grapefruit bitters?
Grapefruit bitters are optional but enhance the citrus notes for a more complex and vibrant flavor.
- → What can I use instead of soda water?
Fresca, Squirt, or Topochico are excellent alternatives that add grapefruit flavor and fizz.
- → How do I garnish a Paloma?
Garnish with a wedge or wheel of grapefruit or lime, and consider a salt or tajin rim for added flavor.
- → Can I make a smoky version of the Paloma?
Yes, substitute mezcal for tequila to create a smoky twist on the traditional Paloma cocktail.