Tequila and I are not exactly BFFs. We actually parted ways a very long time ago (it was best for both of us), and I was sure I was finished with her forever… until I had my very first paloma. With grapefruit as one of the main ingredients, this drink is the perfect balance of sweet and sour. I guess tequila and I both grew up!
With two little ones at home, we can’t go out for fancy adult beverages without it being a whole “thing.” I took this as an opportunity to work on my mixology skills, and I’ve been whipping up some fun new drinks at home. It’s cheaper, closer and I’m learning a new fun kitchen skill that will be super useful for future parties.
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Photography by Emily Steward
The best way to take your cocktail from amateur to pro status is to add a fun rim. For these palomas, I chose to do a fun chile lime salted rim. First pour a little simple syrup onto a flat plate, and add your seasoning to a separate plate. Next, simply dip the rim of your glass into the syrup and dip it into your spice mixture.
I found this Chile Lime seasoning at Trader Joe’s, but if you don’t have a Trader Joe’s nearby, you can use Tajin, kosher salt, or anything you dream up.
I think this is one of the best and easiest homemade cocktails to have in your arsenal. If you make a batch this weekend, don’t forget to invite me over for a taste test, okay?
Paloma
Ingredients
- ¼ cup fresh grapefruit juice
- 1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon simple syrup or sugar + more for rim
- ¼ cup tequila
- ¼ cup club soda
- chile lime seasoning or kosher salt
Instructions
- Pour some simple syrup on a plate and the chile lime seasoning on another. Dip the rim of your glass in the syrup and then the seasoning.
- Stir the grapefruit juice, lime juice, and syrup/sugar in a cocktail glass until dissolved. Add the tequila, ice, and top with the club soda.
[Photos by Emily Steward]