Paloma Recipe: The Classic Tequila Cocktail

Jun 2, 2026by Wooden Cork

The Paloma is Mexico's most popular tequila cocktail: bright, bubbly, and built on the easy pairing of tequila and grapefruit. It's lighter than a margarita and just as easy to make at home.

Where the margarita leans on lime and orange liqueur, the Paloma gets its character from grapefruit and a pinch of salt, with soda for lift. It's endlessly refreshing and comes together in minutes. Here's the classic build, plus tips to make it your own.

Classic Paloma Recipe

Ingredients:

2 oz blanco tequila
1/2 oz fresh lime juice
4 oz grapefruit soda (such as Jarritos or Squirt), or fresh grapefruit juice plus club soda
Pinch of salt
Salt for the rim and a grapefruit or lime wedge, to garnish

Instructions:

Rim a highball glass with salt if desired, and fill with ice.
Add the tequila, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
Top with grapefruit soda (or fresh grapefruit juice and a splash of club soda).
Stir gently to combine.
Garnish with a grapefruit or lime wedge and serve.

Choosing Your Tequila

A crisp blanco tequila is the classic choice for a Paloma; its bright, peppery agave plays perfectly against tart grapefruit. A reposado works too, adding a touch of oak and warmth for a slightly rounder drink. As with any cocktail, a 100% agave tequila makes a noticeable difference. Shop the tequila collection to find your bottle.

Tips & Variations

For the freshest version, skip the soda and use fresh grapefruit juice with a splash of club soda and a little agave to balance. Add a spicy rim with chili-lime salt (Tajín) for a Picante Paloma, or muddle a slice of jalapeño for heat. The recipe batches well for a crowd, just combine the tequila, lime, and grapefruit juice in a pitcher and top each glass with soda to keep the fizz.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Paloma made of?
A Paloma is made with tequila, lime juice, grapefruit (soda or fresh juice), and a pinch of salt, served over ice with soda for lift.

What's the difference between a Paloma and a margarita?
A margarita is built on lime and orange liqueur; a Paloma is built on grapefruit and soda. The Paloma is lighter, fizzier, and a little less sweet.

What tequila is best for a Paloma?
A crisp blanco tequila is the classic choice. Reposado works too for a slightly rounder, oak-kissed drink. Look for 100% agave.

What grapefruit soda should I use?
Jarritos and Squirt are the traditional choices. For a fresher, less sweet drink, use fresh grapefruit juice with a splash of club soda.