Paloma

A classic paloma recipe is one everyone should have in their back pocket. Tequila, grapefruit soda, and freshly squeezed lime juice come together in this citrusy carbonated cocktail.

Why this recipe works

A paloma cocktail is similar to a margarita which is also crafted upon a tequila and fresh lime juice base. However, a paloma is elevated with grapefruit soda adding a touch of bitter-sweetness to each sip. All you’ll need are 3 ingredients and some ice for this fizzy cocktail that’s perfect for summertime sipping!

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

TEQUILA – Choose your favorite silver or blanco tequila for this drink, we went with Espolon blanco tequila. Reposado tequila will also work.

SODA – In this paloma recipe we opted for the mini cans (7 oz) of Squirt. One mini can will make two cocktails. Other good grapefruit sodas include Fresca and Ting. If you can seem to find grapefruit soda you can try a combination of grapefruit juice and sparkling water or club soda.

LIME – Fresh is best. One lime should yield around 1 ounce of juice, which is enough for two cocktails.

How to Make Paloma

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

1. Cut lime in half and squeeze out the juice, reserving it for the drink. Rub the lime along the edge of the rock glass to moisten the rim.
2. Dip the rim of the glass in margarita salt.
3. Fill a rock glass about 3/4 full with ice cubes.
4. Add tequila and lime juice to the glass.
5. Top off the glass with Squirt soda.
6. Use a cocktail stirrer to gently stir the ingredients together, a turn or two should do it.
7. Garnish glass with a grapefruit wedge.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

Blanco or silver tequila is best for a paloma cocktail. Most people reach for blanco tequila for its sweeter citrus notes which pairs really well with the lime and grapefruit flavors. Others may prefer to use Reposado or añejo tequila in their paloma recipe which are aged in oak barrels and take on a warm, toasty flavor profile. Reposado and añejo tequila are both darker in color, which will show through in your cocktail.

Serving Suggestions

Traditionally, a paloma is served on the rocks (over ice) with an optional salted rim. Salting the rim helps offset the bitterness of grapefruit although you don’t technically need it when using grapefruit soda, but it’s always a nice touch. Garnish with a lime or grapefruit wedge. Serve in either a rock glass or highball glass.

More Cocktail Recipes

• Tequila Sunrise
• Black Russian
• Long Island Iced Tea
• Skrew Loose Cocktail
• Blood Orange Margaritas

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