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Paloma Cocktail: The Refreshing Tequila Drink You Need to Try

The Paloma is a refreshing Mexican cocktail that blends tequila, fresh lime juice, and grapefruit soda, making it perfect for warm days and festive gatherings. Easy to prepare, this delightful drink is served over ice and garnished with lime and grapefruit for a zesty finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 oz tequila (preferably blanco)
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 3 oz grapefruit soda (or fresh grapefruit juice with soda water)
  • Salt for rimming the glass (optional)
  • Lime wedge for garnish
  • Grapefruit slice for garnish (optional)
  • Ice cubes

Instructions

  1. Choose Your Glass: Select a highball glass or a classic rocks glass.
  2. Rim the Glass (Optional): Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass and dip it into salt to coat.
  3. Juicing the Limes: Squeeze fresh limes to obtain about 1 oz of lime juice. A citrus juicer can help maximize juice extraction.
  4. Measuring the Tequila: Pour 2 oz of blanco tequila into a cocktail shaker.
  5. Adding Lime Juice: Add the freshly squeezed lime juice to the shaker.
  6. Adding Grapefruit Soda: If using fresh grapefruit juice, add about 3 oz to the shaker. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
  7. Shake It Up: Fill the shaker with ice cubes, cover, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
  8. Strain the Mixture: Strain the mixture into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice cubes.
  9. Top with Soda: If you used fresh grapefruit juice, top off with grapefruit soda gently to maintain fizz.
  10. Garnish: Add a lime wedge on the rim and a grapefruit slice for garnish if desired.
  11. Serve Immediately: Enjoy the Paloma fresh while it’s cold and fizzy.
  12. Pairing Ideas: This cocktail pairs well with light appetizers like guacamole, ceviche, or spicy tacos.

Notes

  • Variations to Try:
    • Spicy Paloma: Muddle jalapeño slices in the shaker for a spicy kick.
    • Herbal Twist: Add fresh mint or basil leaves for an herbal note.
    • Fruit-Infused Paloma: Substitute grapefruit juice with blood orange or pomegranate juice.
    • Frozen Paloma: Blend ingredients with ice for a slushy version.
  • Use high-quality tequila and fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Adjust sweetness by adding soda water or more grapefruit soda/juice.
  • Chill your glass for an extra refreshing experience.