Energizing and vibrant, this low-cal Paloma Cocktail fuses Tequila Blanco with zesty lime juice and refreshing grapefruit soda culminating in a sparkling symphony of flavors. Served with a salted rim and optional citrus garnish, this cocktail offers a truly satisfying summertime experience perfect for lively social gatherings and soothing midday heat.

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Summer just got a little lighter with my take on the Paloma Cocktail. I love this drink because its crisp, grapefruit flavored and low calorie so you can enjoy a tasty cocktail without worrying too much about the extra calories.

I start with 2 oz Tequila Blanco and mix in 1/2 oz of fresh lime juice from about half a lime, which gives it that bright, tangy twist. Then I add 4 oz grapefruit soda, preferably a diet one, to keep it on the lighter side.

A pinch of salt rims the glass and adds a subtle savory note which complements the tequila and grapefruit perfectly. I always pour this over plenty of ice cubes, and sometimes I top it off with a slice of grapefruit or lime for an extra kick of flavour.

Its a cool refresher on a hot day and a versatile cocktail that can be tweaked with variations such as a spicy twist if you want a bit more heat. Enjoy!

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I love how refreshing this drink is even though it’s super easy to make. There’s somethin’ about that burst of grapefruit flavor that just hits right on a hot day.
2. I really appreciate that it’s low-cal so I can enjoy a couple without worryin’ about extra calories.
3. I dig the fact that the salt rim and fresh lime juice add a punch that balances the sweetness of the soda perfectly.
4. I like how all the flavors mix well together after just a quick stir – it makes prepping the cocktail feel totally effortless.

Ingredients

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Tequila Blanco provides a bold, smoky flavor with agave notes; it contains minimal carbohydrates.
Fresh lime juice delivers a zesty, tart punch loaded with vitamin C and natural antioxidants.
Grapefruit soda adds refreshing sweetness and tang, offering carbohydrates for flavor; diet version reduces calories.
A pinch of salt enhances all flavors, balancing sweet and sour with a savory twist.
A garnish of grapefruit or lime elevates aroma and presentation while adding subtle citrus hints.
Ice cubes chill the drink and dilute strength gradually, creating a balanced, refreshing cocktail.
Together, these elements form a vibrant Paloma cocktail favored for its refreshing complexity.

Ingredient Quantities

2 oz Tequila Blanco

1/2 oz fresh lime juice (from about half a lime)

4 oz grapefruit soda (preferably a diet version for a low-cal twist)

A pinch of salt for rimming the glass

Ice cubes

Optional garnish: a slice of grapefruit or lime

How to Make this

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1. Start by running a lime wedge along the rim of your glass and then dip it in a pinch of salt.

2. Fill the glass generously with ice cubes.

3. Pour in 2 oz of Tequila Blanco over the ice.

4. Squeeze in 1/2 oz of fresh lime juice (about half a lime).

5. Add 4 oz of grapefruit soda – use a diet version if you want a low-cal twist.

6. Stir the drink gently so all the flavors mix well.

7. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit or lime if you like.

8. Enjoy your crisp and refreshing Paloma Cocktail!

Equipment Needed

1. A rocks or highball glass for serving
2. A knife to cut your lime wedge
3. A cutting board for the lime
4. A measuring jigger to portion the tequila and lime juice
5. A stirring spoon to mix all the flavors together
6. A citrus juicer or reamer (optional) to get that fresh lime juice out
7. An ice cube tray if you’re making your own ice cubes

FAQ

Q: Can I use regular grapefruit soda instead of a diet version?

A: Sure, you can use regular grapefruit soda. Just keep in mind that the calories will be a bit higher, so thats why we recommend the diet version if youre watching your intake.

Q: Is it essential to use Tequila Blanco?

A: Tequila Blanco provides a clean, crisp flavor that works perfect for a Paloma, but if you only have reposado available, it can still make a tasty cocktail.

Q: How do I properly rim the glass with salt?

A: First, wet the edge of the glass with a bit of lime juice and then dip it into a small plate of salt. That gives the drink a nice little flavor kick.

Q: Can I adjust the lime juice to suit my taste?

A: Definitely, the amounts provided are just a starting point. If you like a bit more tang, feel free to squeeze in some extra lime juice.

Q: Can I make this cocktail in big batches for a party?

A: Yup, you can. Its best to mix the tequila and lime ahead of time and add the grapefruit soda and ice just before serving so that the soda keeps its fizz.

Paloma Cocktail Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Tequila Blanco -> You can use reposado tequila or even mezcal for a smokier flavor
Fresh lime juice -> Bottled lime juice works in a pinch if you dont have fresh limes
Grapefruit soda -> Try mixing grapefruit juice with some sparkling water and a bit of sugar for a similar taste
Pinch of salt -> Sea salt or kosher salt can be used just as well
Optional garnish -> A thin lemon slice could add a nice twist to your cocktail

Pro Tips

1. You might wanna chill your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before you start so your drink stays cool longer
2. Squeeze your lime right before mixing the drink because once it’s juiced the flavor starts to fade
3. If you like a little extra punch, try adding a tiny pinch of extra salt or even some fresh lime zest on top
4. Experiment by adding a bit more ice if you plan on sipping slowly – it helps keeping everything balanced on a hot day

Paloma Cocktail Recipe

Recipe by Sam Ecclestone

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

servings

Calories

134

kcal

Equipment: 1. A rocks or highball glass for serving
2. A knife to cut your lime wedge
3. A cutting board for the lime
4. A measuring jigger to portion the tequila and lime juice
5. A stirring spoon to mix all the flavors together
6. A citrus juicer or reamer (optional) to get that fresh lime juice out
7. An ice cube tray if you’re making your own ice cubes

Ingredients

2 oz Tequila Blanco
1/2 oz fresh lime juice (from about half a lime)
4 oz grapefruit soda (preferably a diet version for a low-cal twist)
A pinch of salt for rimming the glass
Ice cubes
Optional garnish: a slice of grapefruit or lime

Directions

Start by running a lime wedge along the rim of your glass and then dip it in a pinch of salt.
Fill the glass generously with ice cubes.
Pour in 2 oz of Tequila Blanco over the ice.
Squeeze in 1/2 oz of fresh lime juice (about half a lime).
Add 4 oz of grapefruit soda – use a diet version if you want a low-cal twist.
Stir the drink gently so all the flavors mix well.
Garnish with a slice of grapefruit or lime if you like.
Enjoy your crisp and refreshing Paloma Cocktail!

Notes

Below you’ll find my best estimate of this recipe’s nutrition facts. Treat the numbers as a guide rather than a rule—great food should nourish both body and spirit. Figures are approximate, and the website owner assumes no liability for any inaccuracies in this recipe.