The Paloma is a bright Mexican highball that balances tequila with grapefruit, lime, gentle sweetness, and refreshing fizz. It is easy to build in the glass and ideal for warm evenings.
Fresh grapefruit and lime give the drink a clean citrus backbone, while grapefruit soda adds sparkle and keeps the recipe practical for a group.
Salt only the outside edge of the glass if you want each sip to stay balanced. Chill the grapefruit soda before mixing so the drink stays lively without extra dilution.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Palomas with tacos, grilled fish, ceviche, or salty snacks such as roasted nuts and tortilla chips. Add a grapefruit wedge or lime wheel for a simple finish.
Recipe Notes
For a lighter drink, replace half the soda with plain sparkling water. For a zero-proof version, omit the tequila and add extra grapefruit soda or a splash of nonalcoholic agave spirit.
Classic Paloma Cocktail
Equipment
- Four highball glasses
- Small plate
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Citrus juicer
- Bar spoon
Ingredients
Palomas
- 8 oz blanco tequila
- 1/2 cup fresh grapefruit juice
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp agave syrup adjust to taste
- 2 cups sparkling grapefruit soda chilled
- 2 cups ice plus more as needed
Rim and Garnish
- 1 medium grapefruit cut into wedges or wheels
- 1 tbsp kosher salt for the glass rims
Instructions
Prepare the glasses:
- Rub a grapefruit or lime wedge around the rims of four highball glasses.
- Spread the salt on a small plate and dip the rims into it, coating as much or as little of each rim as you like.
Mix the Palomas:
- Fill the glasses with ice. Divide the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup among the glasses.
- Stir each glass briefly, then top with the chilled grapefruit soda.
- Garnish with grapefruit wedges or wheels and serve immediately.
Notes
- Salt only the outer edge of the glass for a more balanced sip.
- Use chilled grapefruit soda so the cocktail stays fizzy and cold.
- For a zero-proof version, omit the tequila and add extra grapefruit soda or a nonalcoholic agave spirit.