The Paloma Cocktail is a refreshing burst of citrus and effervescence that’s perfect for any occasion. With its zesty grapefruit tang and a hint of sweet agave, this drink balances bold flavors with a smooth, bubbly finish.
Ready in just 5 minutes, it’s an effortless way to elevate your day or impress guests without fuss.
Each sip delivers a bright, invigorating experience, with the crispness of fresh lime and the subtle warmth of tequila.
The fizzy soda adds a playful texture, making it irresistibly light and satisfying. Whether you’re unwinding after work or celebrating with friends, this cocktail is a vibrant and effortless treat.
What You’ll Need for the Perfect Paloma Cocktail?
- 2 ounces tequila (preferably blanco for a crisp flavor)
- 2 ounces fresh grapefruit juice (plus wedges for garnish)
- 2 ounces sparkling water (or club soda for extra fizz)
- ½ ounce fresh lime juice (adjust to taste)
- ¼ ounce agave nectar or simple syrup (or to taste, depending on sweetness preference)
- Coarse sea salt (for the rim of the glass)
- Ice (to fill the glass)
How to Make a Refreshing Paloma Cocktail?
- Salt the rim: Rub a grapefruit wedge around the edge of the glass, then dip it onto a small plate of coarse sea salt to coat the rim evenly.
- Mix the ingredients: In the prepared glass, combine the tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, sparkling water, lime juice, and agave nectar. Stir gently to mix.
- Add ice: Fill the remainder of the glass with ice to chill the cocktail.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste and add more agave nectar or lime juice if desired, depending on your preference.
- Garnish and serve: Add a grapefruit wedge to the rim of the glass for a fresh, citrusy finish. Enjoy immediately!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
Pair your Paloma cocktail with light, fresh dishes like ceviche, grilled shrimp tacos, or a zesty avocado salad. For a casual gathering, serve with a platter of citrus-marinated olives and salted nuts to complement the cocktail’s tangy and salty flavors.
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
Try swapping the grapefruit juice with blood orange juice for a sweeter twist, or use mezcal instead of tequila for a smoky flavor. For a spicy kick, add a splash of jalapeño-infused simple syrup or a pinch of chili salt on the rim.
Quick Tips: Time-Saving Hacks
Pre-slice your grapefruit and lime wedges ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Use pre-bottled fresh grapefruit juice if you’re short on time, but avoid overly sweetened versions to keep the cocktail balanced.
Glassware Guidance: Equipment Tips
Use a highball or Collins glass for the classic Paloma presentation. If you don’t have coarse sea salt, kosher salt works just as well for rimming the glass. A cocktail shaker can help mix the ingredients thoroughly before pouring over ice.
Sweetness Savvy: Adjusting to Taste
Start with ¼ ounce of agave nectar and taste before adding more. If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, reduce the agave or omit it entirely—the natural tartness of the grapefruit and lime will shine through.
Paloma Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 ounces tequila
- 2 ounces fresh grapefruit juice plus wedges for garnish
- 2 ounces sparkling water
- ½ ounce fresh lime juice
- ¼ ounce agave nectar or simple syrup or to taste
- Coarse sea salt for the rim of the glasses
- Ice
Instructions
- Salt the rim of the glass by rubbing a grapefruit wedge around the edge and dipping it onto a small plate of salt.
- Mix the tequila, grapefruit juice, sparkling water, lime juice, and agave nectar into the glass. Fill the remainder of the glass with ice. Adjust sweetness to taste. Garnish with grapefruit wedge.