This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure policy.
We’re showing you how to make this Paloma cocktail recipe! A Paloma is a traditional drink in Mexico, with the main ingredients being fresh grapefruit juice and, of course, tequila!
Also, check out all of our classic cocktail recipes and our frozen Paloma cocktail recipe. It’s perfect for summer!

Pin this now to find it later
Pin ItPaloma Cocktail Recipe Video
You love this Italian Paloma recipe too. Also, check out our favorite vodka drinks, the best-mixed drinks, and cheap drinks to make at home!
How to Make a Paloma
There are a few ways to make a classic Paloma recipe, but our favorite way is using a little grapefruit soda and grapefruit juice, along with fresh lime juice and tequila.
Ingredients
Tequila – A good quality tequila that won’t break the bank is perfect for making this recipe.
Grapefruit Juice – Fresh squeezed or store-bought is fine.
Lime Juice – Always fresh-squeezed.
Grapefruit Soda – Sparkling, sweetened grapefruit soda works well.
We couldn’t resist adding a little charm, so we garnished our Paloma with a flower!
Directions
- If you want to rim the glass with salt, you can do it by adding water to the rim of the glass, then dipping it in a plate of salt.
- Next, squeeze the fresh lime juice into the glass and add the tequila and fresh grapefruit juice.
- Fill the glass with ice and pour the grapefruit soda over the top.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and flower.
What’s in a Paloma Cocktail?
When looking for a Paloma recipe, you may come across many variations. A typical Paloma consists of tequila, grapefruit soda, grapefruit juice, and fresh-squeezed lime juice.
A more sophisticated recipe that takes some planning ahead involves using the grapefruit peel and burying it in sugar overnight.
Paloma Recipe Tips
- Add a dash of Campari to the cocktail for a slightly bitter flavor.
- You can also add a dash of mezcal in a Paloma to give it a smoky flavor.
- Also, rim the glass with a little sugar or salt if you prefer.
- If you like a sweeter cocktail, add a simple syrup or agave.
More Cocktail Recipes You’ll Love
You can also FOLLOW US on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and PINTEREST to see more delicious recipes, cocktails, desserts, and parties!
How to Make a Paloma Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 ounces tequila
- 1 ounce grapefruit juice, fresh-squeezed
- 1 wedge lime juice
- 3 ounces grapefruit soda, top off with grapefruit soda, around 3 ounces
Instructions
- Add the tequila, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice and juice of one lime wedge in a glass.
- Fill with ice to the top and then top off with sparkling grapefruit soda.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
This is the perfect refreshing drink. Pretty and tasty too!
Such a simple, easy and refreshing cocktail. I love it! Sharing it at my next girls night too.
Absolutely love how simple and easy this is! The ingredients are perfect!