MariCarmen’s Paloma Perfecta

The paloma is a thirst-quenching tequila cocktail that’s very easy to mix and serve. A favorite drink from Mexico, it is equally popular worldwide and one of the best ways to show off a great tequila. Paloma is the Spanish word for dove, and it’s a fitting name for this sparkling, soulful grapefruit drink.

MariCarmen Ortiz Conway is a globally renowned tequila expert. Here is MariCarmen’s recipe for this forever popular Mexican cocktail.

Though there are variations, two elements are essential in any paloma recipe: tequila  and grapefruit. It’s a beautiful match, yielding a refreshing drink with a tart lime accent and a little fizz. Traditionally, grapefruit soda is used, and ask any Mexican paloma fan, says MariCarmen: Jarritos Toronja is the brand of choice. It’s not too hard to find this soda, especially if you look in Mexican markets.

She also advises going for a premium blanco tequila and, if you’re in the mood to splurge, reposado is nice, as well. It will make all the difference in taste. Prúebalo, you’ll see!

Once you try this classic version, check out Aysia’s paloma with mezcal and chamoy. So smoky-good.

For more of MariCarmen’s traditional Mexican recipes, check out her guacamole with one secret ingredient, her Baja-style tilapia fish tacos with pineapple and chipotle sauce, and her Aunt Consuelo’s mole de olla.

Ready to Make a Classic Paloma Cocktail?

MariCarmen’s Paloma Perfecta

Recipe by MariCarmen Ortiz Conway Cuisine: Mexican

Servings

1

Prep time

3

minutes

Ingredients

• 1 1 lime wedge, for wetting rim of glass

• salt, for rim of glass

• 2 oz 2 tequila blanco or reposado

• 1/4 oz 1/4 fresh lime juice, or to taste

• 4 oz 4 grapefruit soda

• 1 pinch 1 kosher salt, for final dash

Directions

• Rub a lime wedge around the glass rim. Then dip your glass into a dish of kosher salt.
• Fill the glass with ice. Pour in the tequila and fresh lime juice.
• Top it off with grapefruit soda. Stir. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit, if desired.

Notes

• Fight the temptation to not splurge on good tequila, simply because this is a tall drink. Your taste buds will thank you, MariCarmen promises.