Palomas are the must have signature summer cocktail
When the temperatures are blistering, a bright, refreshing cocktail can quench that thirst. The slightly tart, vivacious paloma is a signature summer cocktail. From the eye-catching color to the sensational flavor, this libation is one that deserves to be front and center on the table.
Today’s palomas can be more complicated than the original. At its simplest form, it is basically tequila with a grapefruit soda, oftentimes Squirt or even Fresca. The garnish might be a simple grapefruit slice or nothing at all.
Like many other cocktails, mixologists have elevated those few ingredients into a more sophisticated sipper. From adding florals, herbs, or even changing the liquor, the libation can take on many forms. In some ways, that adaptability is what makes it the perfect summer cocktail.
Ready to sip on summer’s signature cocktail, the paloma? Here are some suggestions:
Palm Springs Paloma
818 Tequila has its take on a paloma. Similar to the vibrant colors that fill the Palm Springs sky and fashion looks, this cocktail is definitely an eye catcher. More importantly, the hibiscus tea adds depth with just the right hint of floral. It is time to push aside another iced tea for this vibrant offering.
Ingredients
1 ½ oz. 818 Tequila Blanco
2 oz. Fresh Grapefruit Juice
½ oz. Fresh Lime Juice
¼ oz. Hibiscus Tea
Method:
Combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and tea in a shaker.
Shake with ice and strain cocktail into coupe glass.
Burnt Grapefruit Paloma
Ready to say yes chef? For the person who prefers a cocktail to another can of Old Style, this "Bear" inspired paloma is sophisticated but not pretentious. It might not necessarily be the most common pairing with an Italian beef, but it is a great option for summer sipping.
Ingredients
2 parts Avión Cristalino
½ parts Lime Juice
2 parts Grilled Grapefruit Agave Syrup
2 parts Club Soda topper
Method
Build in glass. Stir. Add club soda.
Garnish- Grilled grapefruit slice, salt rim
Smoky Frozen Paloma
With the temperatures hitting the sweltering level, a frozen cocktail is a great choice. Frose is passe. This option holds a stronger appeal.
Ingredients:
2 oz Grapefruit Juice
½ oz Lime Juice
½ oz Agave Syrup
1 ½ oz Club Soda
7 to 9 Ice Cubes
1 Slice of Grapefruit as Garnish
Method:
Add ice cubes, mezcal, grapefruit juice, lemon juice, agave syrup, and soda to a blender and blend until the ice is completely crushed. Rim a glass with salt, pour the cocktail, and garnish with a grapefruit slice.
Sean Briggs’ Spicy Blackberry Paloma
Adding some additional fruit flavor to a classic paloma can be quite delightful. This version adds some sweet, tart blackberries for some extra juiciness. Plus, that spice from the jalapenos can offer a little cooling effect after the spice fades.
Ingredients:
1 can of Cutwater’s Tequila Paloma
5-7 blackberries
3 jalapeño slices
Tajin salt
Mint sprig
Method:
Start by rimming a Collins glass with tajin salt using half a lime
Then muddle a handful of blackberries and add a few jalapeño slices
Add crushed ice and top with a can of Cutwater Tequila Paloma
Garnish with blackberries and a mint sprig
What’s your go-to paloma recipe? Share what’s in your glass with #FoodSided.