The Paloma is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that perfectly balances the bold flavors of tequila with the zesty tang of grapefruit soda. This drink is ideal for warm weather and is incredibly easy to make, making it a favorite for casual gatherings and parties.
While most of the ingredients for a Paloma are common, you might need to visit a supermarket for grapefruit soda. This ingredient is essential for achieving the drink's signature flavor. Additionally, ensure you have fresh lime juice and a ripe grapefruit wedge for garnish.

Ingredients for Paloma Recipe
Tequila: The base spirit of the drink, providing a strong and distinctive flavor.
Lime juice: Adds a fresh, tangy element that balances the sweetness of the soda.
Grapefruit soda: The key ingredient that gives the Paloma its unique, refreshing taste.
Salt: Used for rimming the glass to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Grapefruit wedge: A decorative garnish that also adds a hint of fresh citrus aroma.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When rimming the glass with salt, use a slice of lime to moisten the rim before dipping it into the salt. This ensures an even coating and enhances the flavor of the Paloma.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
tequila - Substitute with mezcal: Mezcal offers a smoky flavor that can add a unique twist to the drink.
tequila - Substitute with vodka: Vodka provides a neutral base, allowing the other flavors to shine through.
freshly squeezed lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice has a similar acidity and can provide a comparable tartness.
freshly squeezed lime juice - Substitute with bottled lime juice: Bottled lime juice is convenient and still offers a similar flavor profile.
grapefruit soda - Substitute with grapefruit juice and club soda: Mixing grapefruit juice with club soda can mimic the effervescence and flavor of grapefruit soda.
grapefruit soda - Substitute with lemon-lime soda and a splash of grapefruit juice: This combination can replicate the citrusy and fizzy characteristics of grapefruit soda.
salt - Substitute with sugar: Rimming the glass with sugar instead of salt can provide a sweet contrast to the drink's tartness.
salt - Substitute with tajin: Tajin adds a spicy and tangy flavor that complements the citrus elements of the drink.
grapefruit wedge - Substitute with lime wedge: A lime wedge offers a similar citrusy aroma and can be used as a garnish.
grapefruit wedge - Substitute with orange wedge: An orange wedge provides a sweet and citrusy garnish that pairs well with the drink.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Drink
How to Store or Freeze This Drink
- To keep your Paloma fresh, store any leftover tequila and grapefruit soda separately in their original containers, tightly sealed, and place them in the refrigerator.
- If you have pre-mixed tequila and lime juice, transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate. This mix can last up to 2-3 days.
- For the grapefruit wedge garnish, slice fresh grapefruit and store the wedges in a sealed container or a zip-lock bag in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
- If you want to prepare the Paloma in advance, mix the tequila and lime juice and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Add the grapefruit soda just before serving to maintain its fizz.
- Avoid freezing the Paloma as the grapefruit soda will lose its carbonation and the drink will not taste as fresh.
- If you must freeze, consider freezing the tequila and lime juice mixture in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-lock bag. When ready to serve, place the cubes in a glass and top with grapefruit soda.
- Always use fresh lime juice and grapefruit for the best flavor. Avoid using bottled lime juice as it may alter the taste of your Paloma.
- Keep a small container of salt handy for rimming the glass whenever you decide to enjoy your Paloma.
- Remember to stir gently after adding the grapefruit soda to maintain its effervescence and ensure a refreshing sip every time.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- Pour the leftover Paloma into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to chill and mix the ingredients.
- Strain the mixture into a salt-rimmed glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top off with a splash of fresh grapefruit soda to refresh the fizz.
- Garnish with a fresh grapefruit wedge to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Best Tools for Making This Recipe
Rocks glass: A sturdy glass perfect for serving the Paloma, allowing for easy rimming with salt and holding the ice and liquid ingredients.
Salt rimmer: A tool used to evenly coat the rim of the glass with salt, enhancing the drink's presentation and flavor.
Ice: Essential for chilling the drink and maintaining its refreshing quality.
Jigger: A measuring tool used to accurately pour the tequila and lime juice, ensuring the correct proportions.
Citrus juicer: A device for extracting fresh lime juice, adding a bright and zesty flavor to the cocktail.
Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used to gently stir the drink, mixing the ingredients without losing the carbonation of the grapefruit soda.
Grapefruit wedge: A garnish that adds a touch of elegance and a hint of extra citrus aroma to the finished drink.
How to Save Time on Making This Drink
Pre-rim your glasses: Rim your glasses with salt ahead of time and store them in the fridge to save a step later.
Use pre-squeezed lime juice: Buy or squeeze lime juice in advance and keep it in the fridge for quick access.
Chill your ingredients: Keep your tequila and grapefruit soda chilled so you don't need to add as much ice.
Batch your drinks: Mix larger quantities of tequila and lime juice in a pitcher, then pour into individual glasses and top with grapefruit soda.
Pre-cut garnishes: Slice your grapefruit wedges in advance and store them in an airtight container.

Paloma Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 oz Tequila
- ½ oz Lime juice freshly squeezed
- 4 oz Grapefruit soda
- 1 pinch Salt for rimming the glass
- 1 Grapefruit wedge for garnish
Instructions
- 1. Rim the glass with salt.
- 2. Fill the glass with ice.
- 3. Add tequila and lime juice to the glass.
- 4. Top with grapefruit soda and stir gently.
- 5. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
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