The Best Homemade Paloma Cocktail Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Paloma cocktail recipe is as invigorating as it gets, perfect for relaxing after a long day or hosting a summer party. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and tastes just like the classic drink you’d order at a bar.
- You’ll need just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have at home.
- It’s quick to whip up in under 5 minutes, so you can spend less time mixing and more time sipping.
- The balance of tangy grapefruit, smooth tequila, and a hint of lime makes it irresistibly delicious every time.
Recipe
The Paloma cocktail is an invigorating and tangy tequila-based drink that hails from Mexico. Known for its simple yet vibrant flavors, it’s a perfect blend of grapefruit and lime with a hint of salt. This recipe is easy to make at home with just a few ingredients and minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila (preferably blanco)
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 4 oz grapefruit soda (such as Jarritos or Squirt)
- Salt for rimming the glass
- Lime wedge for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Rim a highball glass with salt by running a lime wedge around the edge and dipping it into a plate of salt. Fill the glass with ice.
- Pour the tequila and fresh lime juice into the glass.
- Top with grapefruit soda and gently stir to combine.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
Notes:
- For a fresher taste, use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice instead of grapefruit soda and add a splash of club soda.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding a touch of simple syrup if desired.
Equipment:
Highball glass, jigger, citrus juicer
Time:
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: Mexican
Serving: 1 cocktail
Nutrition
This homemade Paloma cocktail is an invigorating drink with balanced nutrition.
| Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat | Sodium | Total Carbs | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 cocktail | 150 | 0g | 2mg | 15g | 0g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade Paloma with spicy snacks, like chili-lime peanuts or jalapeño chips, because the heat balances the drink’s citrusy sweetness. A simple cheese and charcuterie platter also works wonders, especially with salty cheeses and cured meats that highlight the cocktail’s bright flavors. Trust me, these pairings make every sip even more enjoyable.
Spicy Snacks Pairings
Although I’m all about the invigorating kick of a homemade Paloma, spicy snacks are what’ll take your cocktail hour to the next level. I love pairing my Paloma with crispy chili-lime tortilla chips—they’re tangy, zesty, and just the right amount of heat to match the drink’s revitalizing vibe. Spicy roasted nuts, especially those tossed with cayenne and smoked paprika, are another go-to for me—they’re crunchy, savory, and irresistible. For something lighter, I’ll grab some wasabi peas—their punchy flavor complements the citrus notes perfectly. Trust me, these snacks make every sip of your Paloma even more satisfying. Don’t forget to adjust the spice level to your taste—it’s all about finding that perfect balance!
Cheese and Charcuterie Platter
A well-crafted cheese and charcuterie platter can truly elevate your Paloma experience, offering a mix of textures, flavors, and indulgence. I love pairing tangy goat cheese, creamy brie, and sharp cheddar with salty prosciutto, spicy chorizo, and rich pâté. Add some crunchy nuts, sweet dried fruits, and tangy pickles for balance. Fresh grapes or figs bring a juicy pop, while crusty bread or crackers tie it all together. This combo hits all the notes—savory, sweet, salty, and creamy—and complements the bright, citrusy Paloma perfectly. It’s a no-fuss yet impressive way to make your gathering feel special. Trust me, your guests will love it!
