Margaritas get all the attention, but the paloma is the drink I actually order first when it’s on a menu. Grapefruit and tequila make more sense to me in the middle of summer than lime ever has, and it’s genuinely harder to mess up.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 5 minutes
- Fewer ingredients than a margarita
- Easy to make a full pitcher for a group
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes & Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Tequila | 2 oz | Blanco works best, reposado is fine too |
| Grapefruit soda | 4 oz | Jarritos or a similar brand |
| Lime juice | 1/2 oz | Fresh only |
| Salt | For the rim | Optional |
| Ice | As needed | |
| Grapefruit slice | For garnish | Optional |
Pro tip: run a lime wedge around the rim before dipping in salt so it actually sticks, rather than sliding off the glass.
Kitchen Tools & Equipment
- A tall glass
- A jigger or measuring shot glass
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Glass
Rim a glass with salt if using, then fill with ice.
Step 2: Combine
Add tequila and lime juice to the glass.
Step 3: Top It Off
Top with grapefruit soda and stir gently.
Step 4: Garnish
Add a grapefruit slice on the rim if you have one on hand.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve immediately while cold and fizzy.
Expert Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Tips:
- Use fresh lime juice rather than bottled. The difference is noticeable in a drink this simple.
- Stir gently rather than shaking, so the soda keeps its carbonation.
Mistakes:
- Adding the soda first, which makes it harder to stir in the tequila and lime evenly.
- Using a sweetened grapefruit juice instead of soda, which changes the drink into something closer to a different cocktail entirely.
Recipe Variations & Customizations
- Make it a mocktail by leaving out the tequila and adding a splash more lime juice.
- Spicy version: rim the glass with a mix of salt and chili powder called tajin.
- Batch it: multiply the tequila and lime juice for a pitcher, adding soda to individual glasses right before serving so it stays fizzy.
What to Serve With This Dish
This pairs naturally with anything off the grill, especially grilled BBQ chicken guac sandwiches or a plate of walking tacos.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storage: not applicable, this is meant to be made and served immediately.
Reheating: not applicable.
Freezing: not applicable, though you can pre batch the tequila and lime juice mixture and refrigerate for a day or two ahead of a party.
FAQs About This Recipe
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes, mix the tequila and lime juice ahead of time in a pitcher, then add ice and top individual glasses with soda right before serving so it doesn’t go flat.
What’s the difference between a paloma and a margarita?
A paloma uses grapefruit soda instead of the lime and triple sec base of a margarita, which makes it lighter and slightly less sweet.
Final Thoughts
This has become my answer whenever someone asks what to drink besides another margarita. Simpler, and I’d argue better.
Save this one for the next hot afternoon that calls for something cold.
