A refreshing combination of sweet lime, sour grapefruit, and smooth tequila, the Paloma Cocktail is delightful alternative to the margarita!
Paloma Cocktail
Move over margaritas! There’s a new tequila cocktail in town!
Ok, so the Paloma is not really a new cocktail. In fact, it’s likely been around for generations! However, it is a bit lesser known then the ubiquitous margarita cocktail. The Paloma is actually one of my favorite tequila-based drinks, so I’m excited to share this recipe and introduce more people to this refreshing classic!
If you love margaritas, you’ll love this amazing cocktail recipe! It’s sweet, sour, and refreshing for a great grapefruit-flavored cocktail.
This was one of my favorite drinks to recommend back in my bartending days when a patron asked what I could make with tequila.
Why is it Called a “Paloma?”
“Paloma” is the Spanish word for “dove.” While it is not know exactly where this distinctive cocktail got its name, there is the theory that it was inspired by a popular folk song, La Paloma. This song has been around since the mid-1800s, so this drink has a potentially lengthy history!
Ingredients
- 2 ounces Tequila
- 1 Tablespoon Lime Juice
- 2 ounces Grapefruit Juice
- 3 ounces Grapefruit Soda
Optional Garnish Ideas
- Salt, for rim of glass
- Grapefruit wheel
- Lime wedge
Note: This recipe is intended for readers 21+
Helpful Bartending Tools
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- Cocktail Jigger (for measuring liquor amounts)
- Boston Cocktail Shaker Set (contains shakers, jigger, strainer)
Instructions
- Fill a large cocktail glass or a mason jar with ice cubes.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice on top of the ice.
- Pour in the tequila and grapefruit juice.
- Top with soda and give a quick stir.
Prep Tips
- Like a margarita, the Paloma is a cocktail that tastes delicious with a salted rim. It is not required, but it is definitely an option to try. If you like salt on your margarita, you may very well like salt for your Paloma too!
- Garnish ideas include a fresh grapefruit slice and/or lime wedge.
- Many paloma recipes simply use club soda, but I think the drink tastes even better using grapefruit soda, such as Squirt or Fresca. The extra touch of sweetness helps to balance out the tartness of the grapefruit juice. You could also use lemon-lime soda (Sprite, 7up, etc.) for a similar effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Best Type of Tequila to Use?
Just like a margarita, I recommend using a middle-of-the-road tequila to make your palomas. Grapefruit juice has a strong flavor profile and will mask some of the tequila taste. So you don’t need to spend a lot of money on a fancy tequila if you’re going to be mixing it!
On the other hand, you probably don’t want to use a super cheap tequila if you don’t have to.
Related: Use vodka instead of tequila to make a Greyhound! Find our Greyhound Cocktail recipe here.
Do You Need to Use Fresh Grapefruit Juice?
Fresh-squeezed juices usually taste cleaner and fresher of course, but you’re welcome to use bottled grapefruit juice or juice from concentrate as well.
Paloma Cocktail Recipe (Printable Recipe Card)
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Paloma Cocktail
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker
Ingredients
- 2 ounces tequila
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 ounces grapefruit juice
- 3 ounces grapefruit soda or lemon-lime soda
Instructions
- Fill a large cocktail glass with ice cubes and squeeze fresh lime juice on top of the ice.
- Pour in the tequila, followed by the grapefruit juice.
- Top with soda and give a quick stir.
- Garnish with a grapefruit slice.
Notes
Nutrition
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