Looking for a new cocktail to try out this weekend? Want to wind down with a fresh new drink? We’ve got you covered. Here’s what you should drink this weekend.
While the high temperatures have remained consistent throughout the summer, it feels like we are officially in the dog days of summer. And as we’ve been saying for the past few weeks, there’s nothing quite like a nice refreshing cocktail to help beat the heat. We recently rounded up some of our favorite classic tequila cocktails so I figured it would be thematically appropriate to highlight one of the most thirst-quenching of options: the Paloma.
The Paloma and Margarita are inextricably connected as two of the most popular tequila cocktails here in the states. In fact, in Mexico, its popularity might even surpass the Tex-Mex staple of a margarita. The Paloma’s history is fuzzy but seems to date back to the 50s. It is a remarkably simple drink built right in the glass so no matter your skills as a bartender, you can make a solid Paloma. Plus, thanks to its simplicity both in the concoction and in ingredients, it’s an easy cocktail to mix and match with additional ingredients. Though purists would say that grapefruit as an ingredient is essential.
Paloma Ingredients
Tequila – Blanco tequila is the liquor of choice in a Paloma though you could certainly experiment with an Añejo as well as different mezcals. Our first choice would be the buzzy JAJA Blanco Tequila. Patrón Silver or Milagro Silver would also be fine options.
Lime Juice – I’m a broken record, but get some whole limes and freshly squeeze those bad boys right before making your cocktail. Freshly squeezed lime juice makes a world of difference and will elevate your drink with a vibrant zippiness.
Grapefruit Soda – Now here is where personal preference dictates your Paloma creation. In Mexico, Jarritos grapefruit soda is the popular choice as is Squirt and Fresca. Alternatively, you can use fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice and add unflavored soda or seltzer.
Paloma Recipe
- Salt the rim of your highball glass.
- Combine 2 ounces of tequila and 1/2 ounce of lime juice in a highball glass over ice.
- Add 4 ounces of grapefruit soda like Jarritos and stir to mix.
- Garnish with a lime wedge or grapefruit slice.
