Paloma Cocktail

If you're a big fan of margarita recipes or Ree Drummond's signature drink, this ranch water, it's time to meet another one of the tastiest tequila drinks: the paloma. This recipe doubles down on grapefruit flavor with a little bit of fresh grapefruit juice and grapefruit soda. Fresh lime juice helps add more acidity to balance the sweetness of the soda and a pinch of salt in the glass rounds out all of the flavors. This refreshing sipper is perfect for all your warm weather get-togethers. It's a simple, quick, and easy to double or triple in batch for a crowd.

What are the ingredients in a paloma?

Traditionally, a paloma cocktail is made with tequila blanco and grapefruit flavored soda, like Jarritos de Toronja. You can use any grapefruit flavored soda like fresca or even Squirt. Lime adds acidity and even more complex citrus flavor.

What can you use instead of grapefruit soda in a paloma?

If you can't find grapefruit soda, a mix of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice combined with sparkling water is the perfect swap. To mock the sweetness of grapefruit soda, you may want to add a splash of simple syrup or agave nectar to your paloma.

Does the grapefruit juice have to be fresh?

There's no comparison to the taste of freshly-squeezed citrus juice, so it should always be your first choice. However, in a pinch, you can use store-bought grapefruit juice to make a paloma. Just make sure what you grab is 100% grapefruit juice and not from concentrate.

What tequila do you use for a paloma?

Tequila blanco is traditional, but you can also make this with a reposado tequila if you prefer. Skip an anejo tequilla, or one that has been aged for a long time in oak, because it will compete with the bright, refreshing flavors of the grapefruit soda.

Can you make this a mocktail?

Certainly! Simply leave out the tequila. The drink will still be tangy and ultra refreshing.

How do you garnish a paloma?

Keep it simple with grapefruit slices and lime wedges! Feel free to dip the rim of each glass in salt (see the tip) or even Tajín, if that's your jam.

What's 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.

Can you make paloma cocktails ahead of time?

Yes! Since this cocktail is stirred up right in the glass rather than shaken, it's perfect for making ahead. This is especially helpful when making big batch cocktails for a get-together! Simply add the tequila, lime juice, grapefruit juice, and pinch of salt to a pitcher. Cover and refrigerate. When the time comes, divide the mixture between glasses and add the soda and garnishes.