A classic Paloma is bright, refreshing, and intentionally simple. I wanted to go super classic with this one by using freshly squeezed grapefruit juice and club soda, keeping the flavors clean and balanced without anything bottled or overly sweet (…and no HFCS).

A hand is seen turning a glass upside down to coat its rim with Tajín seasoning on a small white dish, surrounded by limes and a bottle of tequila.

A hand squeezing a grapefruit slice over a glass with Tajín seasoning on the rim, with fresh limes in the background.

I like to add Tajín to just one side of the glass. The subtle heat pairs beautifully with the fresh lime and gives each sip a little contrast without overpowering the drink.

I also love this drink because it is stirred, not shaken. It comes together softly, keeps its clarity, and feels effortless from start to finish. Simple, fresh, and exactly how a Paloma should be.

Servings 1 cocktail

Course Cocktail, Drinks

Cuisine Mexican

A fresh, citrus-forward Paloma made with real grapefruit and lime, lightly sweetened and finished with sparkling club soda.

Ingredients

2 oz tequila blanco
1 oz fresh lime juice
2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
Pinch of sugar
Club soda to top
Tajín optional for rim
Ice

Instructions

Fill a glass with ice and set aside. If using Tajín, run a lime wedge along the rim and dip just one side into the seasoning.
In the glass, add the fresh lime juice and a small pinch of sugar. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves.
Pour in the tequila blanco and stir gently.
Add the fresh grapefruit juice and stir again.
Top off with chilled club soda. Give one slow stir to combine and serve immediately.