A Paloma cocktail is a refreshing tequila cocktail that’s a perfect addition to your taco night! Add a spicy twist by rimming the glass with a little smoked chili powder or cayenne pepper. This is a delicious drink to enjoy out on the patio with friends, you’re going to love it!

This spicy Paloma cocktail will be sure to impress your friends and family when they come to town to visit or if you’re hosting an outdoor summer dinner party. Ready to get mixing? Let’s go!

Paloma drink with limes on a marble cutting board

How Did a Paloma get its Name?

Legend has it that the La Paloma which translates to “The Dove” in Spanish. The drink is based on the popular folk song composed in the early 1860s by the legendary Don Javier Delgado Corona, the owner and bartender of La Capilla, in Tequila, Mexico.

Another fun fact is that Palomas are called the national drink of Mexico. They have also been called the lazy man’s margarita since the traditional drink requires just 2 simple ingredients: tequila and squirt. It’s basically the equivalent to a rum and coke.

In this recipe I will teach you how to make a refreshing Paloma with fresh squeezed grapefruit juice!

2 Paloma drinks on a marble cutting board with cut lime wedges in a bowl

What’s the Difference Between a Margarita and a Paloma?

Both are delicious cocktails made with tequila and lime. However, margaritas are made with triple sec or Cointreau to add the sweet citrus flavor. Whereas Palomas typically add grapefruit juice.

Palomas are usually less sweet. It is a great option for those who find Margaritas too sweet.

one Paloma drink on a marble cutting board with a knife and cut lime wedges in a bowl

Palomas are Perfect Drinks to Customize

It’s always fun adding your own special twist to a classic drink. You can easily create your own signature Paloma cocktail by making these delicious swaps:

Instead of grapefruit juice and simple syrup, use Squirt Soda (this is the classic recipe)!
Try agave or honey instead of simple syrup.
Add a splash of orange juice to sweeten it up.
Mix in other tropical fruit flavors like pineapple, mango, etc.
Substitute plain soda water for other citrus or tropical flavored sparkling water.
Use Mezcal Tequila for a more savory and smoky flavor

2 paloma drinks with a bowl of limes and a saucer filled with the rim flavor

How to Make Your Own Simple Syrup for Cocktails:

Just in case you’ve never made simple syrup before, let me break how down how, well simple, it really is! Simple syrup is just 1 part water to 1 part sugar. Combine the sugar and water in a small sauce pan and bring to a low boil. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat. Allow the mixture to cool and use as needed. Store refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to 1 week.

Tip: You can opt for brown sugar to give the simple syrup a more caramel-like flavor. This swap also works for honey or agave!

For your citrus cocktails, like a Paloma, you can even zest citrus into the boiling pan which imparts the oils and flavor into your syrup. This works with any spice too.

If you want to add a spicy twist, steep some jalapeños in the boiling water. This will add some kick to the spicy Paloma cocktail! Control the heat level by adding or removing the seeds.

Additional Refreshing Cocktail Recipes:

If you aren’t a fan of tequila try this Gin and Grapefruit Cocktail instead. Another delicious tropical flavored drink is this Pineapple and Coconut Guava Lacroix Cocktail which can be easily modified into a mocktail. Another refreshing option is a Hugo Cocktail with mint and citrus flavors.

If you want a sweet and fruity drink, try this Summer Cocktail with Peach Puree. Finally, if you’re more of a margarita fan this Coconut and Tangerine Lacroix Margarita is a great recipe to serve.

The Recipe

A close up of a Paloma drink with another drink in the background with a bowl of lime wedges

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