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A chilled coral-pink Paloma cocktail in a salt-rimmed highball glass with grapefruit, lime, clear ice, and condensation.

Classic Paloma Cocktail

A bright and refreshing Paloma cocktail made with tequila, grapefruit, lime, agave, sparkling grapefruit soda, and a salted rim.
Servings 4 drinks
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes

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.

Nutrition

Calories: 165kcalCarbohydrates: 17gSodium: 35mgSugar: 15g
Calories: 165kcal
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Mexican
Keyword: Grapefruit Cocktail, Paloma, Tequila Cocktail