Paloma Cocktail Recipe

It’s hard to beat this effortless, refreshing cocktail! Move over Margarita — this Paloma cocktail recipe is about to move its way up on your list of favorites.

There’s no denying that I love a great Margarita. But the key word in that sentence is great.

It’s all too often that you order a Marg at a bar or restaurant and end up with a sugary, neon-green drink that’s all mixer and no magic.

But the Paloma? It’s hard to make a bad one!

Psst — if you love this recipe, be sure to sign up below for my VIP group! I send these folks more of my very best cocktails, party ideas, and life hacks.

History of the Paloma Cocktail

The Paloma is a three-ingredient cocktail which combines tequila, grapefruit soda, and lime juice — basically making it a highball.

A highball traditionally is a cocktail containing one or two ounces of a spirit or liquor, topped with soda, tonic, or another carbonated nonalcoholic beverage, then served with ice.

And the Paloma just so happens to be the national drink of Mexico!

The history of the drink is unclear and a few different folks have been credited for creating it at different times in Mexico’s history. But whoever it was, I’m giving them a big thank you.

What Type of Tequila Should You Use for a Paloma?

Like I always say when I’m recommending spirits, the best one is the one that you’ve got on hand. I’m not a fussy home mixologist.

But! I also know that ingredients make a difference, so if you have some variety to choose from or you really want to make a classic Paloma cocktail recipe, I’d recommend starting with a blanco tequila for a traditional choice.

Some folks like to use a reposado, which also makes a great Paloma. The reposado will give the drink a bit of a deeper flavor, while blanco will keep it more light and botanical.

Paloma Ingredients

Tequila. A nice bottle will give a smooth finish to your Paloma.

Grapefruit soda. In Mexico, the Paloma is traditionally made using grapefruit Jarritos, but any grapefruit soda will do. In a pinch you can even use Squirt soda.

Lime juice. I always recommend fresh citrus for cocktails!

Salt. Use to rim, or even add a pinch to the cocktail itself.

How to Make a Paloma Cocktail

In a glass, combine 2 ounces of tequila, juice from half a lime, and a pinch of salt. Add ice.

Top with grapefruit soda and gently stir once or twice to mix. Top with grapefruit slices for a garnish.

Paloma Cocktail Recipe Variations

If you don’t have grapefruit soda on hand, try creating something similar by mixing fresh grapefruit juice, club soda, and simple syrup.

For a mocktail, you can also try a zero-proof tequila! These nonalcoholic options are becoming super popular for the sober or sober-curious, and with more manufacturers making them the taste is improving greatly.

And don’t be afraid to experiment with the salt! Some may like the Paloma cocktail recipe with a salt rim, while others prefer the pinch of salt in the drink.

More Tequila Cocktails to Try

While you’re adding the Paloma to your cocktail recipe library, be sure to check out some other favorites:

• Tequila Sparkler
• Spaghett Cocktail Recipe (The New Aperol Spritz!)
• Tinto de Verano Drink Recipe
• Salty Dog Cocktail Recipe
• Hugo Spritz Recipe

This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. This means that I receive a small commission should you make a purchase via one of these links, at no additional cost to you. Thank you as always for your support!