Classic Paloma Cocktail Recipe | Easy Grapefruit Tequila Drink
Today, we bring you the best Paloma cocktail recipes. This easy grapefruit and tequila drink is a refreshing, citrusy Mexican classic that is quickly becoming a global favorite — and for good reason. Made with just a few simple ingredients like tequila, grapefruit juice (or soda), lime, and sparkling soda, this authentic Paloma is bright, bubbly, and irresistibly drinkable.
Unlike a margarita, the Paloma balances the sweet tart with a subtle bitterness from the grapefruit, making it the perfect cocktail for summer parties, Taco Tuesday, Cinco de Mayo, or whenever you’re craving something crisp and refreshing. This grapefruit tequila drink is effortlessly delicious.
🍹 What Is a Paloma Cocktail?
The Paloma cocktail is a classic Mexican drink made with tequila, grapefruit soda or fresh grapefruit juice, and a splash of lime, served over ice. While the Margarita often gets the spotlight, the Paloma is actually Mexico’s most beloved tequila cocktail—loved for its refreshing citrus flavor and sparkling finish.
Light, slightly tart, and subtly sweet, the Paloma is perfect for sipping on hot days, festive gatherings, or casual happy hours. Its balance of citrus, salt, and tequila makes it one of the best grapefruit tequila drinks you can make at home in minutes.
- 🗺️ Origin: Mexico
- 🍊 Flavor Profile: Citrusy, light, slightly sweet
- 🍸 Spirit Base: Tequila (Blanco or Reposado)
- 🍹 Common Mixers: Grapefruit soda, lime juice, club soda
Whether you’re making a traditional Paloma with Squirt or Jarritos or opting for a healthier version using fresh-squeezed juice and soda water, this iconic tequila grapefruit cocktail is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy, affordable, and endlessly customizable!
Pro Tip: Add salt or tajine to your glass to enhance the drink’s taste and presentation!
🍹 Paloma Cocktail Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to craft the perfect Paloma cocktail – a refreshing, citrus-forward grapefruit tequila drink that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor.
🥃 2 oz Tequila Blanco
Use a high-quality silver or blanco tequila for a crisp and clean flavor. For an authentic Paloma, brands like Espolòn, Patrón Silver, or Don Julio work wonderfully.
🍊 2 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
For a fresher, bolder citrus flavor, squeeze your own grapefruit juice. You can also use grapefruit soda like Jarritos or Squirt for a fizzy shortcut.
🍈 0.5 oz Fresh Lime Juice
Adds brightness and acidity. Fresh-squeezed lime juice balances the sweetness and enhances the tequila’s flavor.
🍯 0.5 oz Simple Syrup (optional)
Use to sweeten your Paloma cocktail to taste. You can also use agave nectar for a more natural, authentic touch.
🧊 Ice Cubes
Essential for a chilled and refreshing drink. Fill your glass with ice before pouring your cocktail mixture.
💦 2–3 oz Club Soda (if using juice)
Top off with soda water to add a fizzy sparkle. This is optional if you’re already using grapefruit soda.
🧂 Pinch of Salt (optional)
A tiny pinch inside or around the rim balances bitterness and enhances citrus flavors. Try Tajín for a spicy rim!
🍹 Tips & Flavorful Variations for the Best Paloma Cocktail
If you prefer bold, spicy cocktails or something light and tart, this section will show you how to customize your Paloma cocktail recipe to suit your tastes. Discover popular twists like the Spicy Paloma, Mezcal Paloma, and even a low-calorie Skinny Paloma version!
🔥 Spicy Paloma
Add muddled jalapeño or a splash of chili-infused tequila for a bold, spicy kick. Garnish with a chili-salt rim for extra heat!
🌵 Mezcal Paloma
Swap tequila with smoky mezcal to create a more rustic, complex flavor profile. A great twist for lovers of earthy spirits.
❄️ Frozen Paloma
Blend all ingredients with ice to create a refreshing frozen version of the classic grapefruit tequila drink. Perfect for summer parties!
🍃 Skinny Paloma
Use diet grapefruit soda or sparkling water and skip the simple syrup to cut down on sugar and calories. A healthier twist that still tastes amazing.
🌸 Hibiscus Paloma
Add hibiscus syrup or steeped hibiscus tea to infuse a floral note into your Paloma cocktail recipe. Beautiful and unique!
📝 Pro Tip: Always use fresh citrus juice for the best flavor in any variation of this easy Paloma recipe.
🍹 Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Paloma Cocktail
Want to know how to serve the perfect Paloma cocktail? From glassware to garnishes, here’s how to present your authentic Paloma beautifully.
-
🍸
Use the Right Glassware
Traditionally, the Paloma drink is served in a tall highball glass, but a short rocks glass works great too. Either way, use a chilled glass for a crisp, refreshing experience.
-
🧂
Rim It with Salt or Tajín
Elevate your Paloma cocktail presentation with a salt or Tajín-spiced rim. It adds flavor and a colorful touch to your drink—perfect for Instagram-worthy cocktails.
-
🍤
Pair It with Light Mexican Dishes
The zesty citrus notes of the Paloma pair beautifully with Mexican appetizers like shrimp ceviche, fish tacos, guacamole, or grilled chicken skewers. These dishes enhance the crisp and tart flavor of the drink.
-
🍋
Garnish Like a Pro
Add a thin slice of fresh grapefruit, a lime wedge, or a sprig of rosemary for a stunning finish. A visually appealing garnish adds extra aroma and enhances the drinking experience.
-
🎉
Batch It for Parties
Hosting guests? Mix up a pitcher of Palomas using fresh grapefruit juice and tequila, then top each glass with club soda just before serving. It’s one of the easiest cocktail recipes for a crowd.
Classic Paloma Cocktail Recipe
The Paloma is a refreshing, citrusy Mexican cocktail that’s light, tangy, and slightly sweet with a sparkling finish. Traditionally made with tequila and grapefruit soda, this easy-to-make drink is perfect for warm days or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Tequila Blanco
- 2 oz Fresh grapefruit juice (or grapefruit soda like Jarritos/Squirt)
- 0.5 oz Fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz Simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 2–3 oz Club soda (if using fresh juice)
- Ice cubes
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Garnish (optional):
- Grapefruit wedge or slice
- Lime wheel
- Salt for rimming the glass
Instructions
Run a lime wedge around the rim of a highball or rocks glass, then dip the rim in salt.
In a shaker or directly in the glass, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Stir or shake with ice.
Fill the glass with ice and top with club soda (if using fresh juice). Stir gently.
Garnish with a grapefruit wedge or lime wheel. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
1Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 253Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 101658mgCarbohydrates: 34gFiber: 4gSugar: 16gProtein: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions About the Paloma Cocktail
If you like this article about the Paloma Cocktail Recipe, please share it with your friends on Facebook and Pinterest. Also, subscribe to my blog to get all the latest content first on your mobile.
