A Refreshing Escape in a Glass: The Paloma Drink Recipes
The Paloma: Mexico’s Refreshing Tequila Classic
Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve, your one-stop shop for all things bartending.
I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.
In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.
So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.
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A History Steeped in Sunshine
The Paloma cocktail has origins that are, like many classics, a little hazy. Some stories place its creation in Mexico in the 1940s, while others suggest it was first mixed in Texas. What’s clear is that it was born in the heat, pairing tequila with grapefruit soda for a drink that’s light, citrusy, and refreshing.
The name Paloma means “dove” in Spanish — a perfect reflection of its crisp, uplifting nature. Today, it’s considered by many to be Mexico’s most popular tequila cocktail.
Classic Paloma Recipe (Australian-Friendly)
Ingredients:
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60 ml tequila blanco (choose a quality one for clean flavour)
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60 ml fresh grapefruit juice
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120 ml grapefruit soda (Jarritos, Squirt, or Fresca work best)
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15 ml fresh lime juice
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7 ml agave nectar or simple syrup (optional, to taste)
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Coarse salt for rim
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Garnish: lime wedge
Method:
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Rim the glass with lime, then dip in salt.
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Add tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave nectar to the glass.
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Fill with fresh ice.
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Top with grapefruit soda.
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Stir gently and garnish with lime.
👉 Bartender Tip: Fresh grapefruit juice makes the difference between a “good” and a “great” Paloma.
Paloma Variations to Try
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Spicy Paloma → Add jalapeño simple syrup and rim the glass with Tajín for heat.
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Herbal Paloma → Use rosemary or thyme simple syrup for a botanical twist.
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Blood Orange Paloma → Swap grapefruit with blood orange juice for colour and sweetness.
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Sparkling Paloma → Replace soda with sparkling water for a lighter, drier version.
Flavour Profile
The Paloma balances sweet, tart, and salty notes:
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Tequila blanco → crisp and earthy base.
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Grapefruit soda & juice → tangy, refreshing sweetness.
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Lime → adds brightness and acidity.
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Salt rim → sharpens flavours and enhances citrus notes.
Food Pairings
The Paloma is one of the most food-friendly tequila cocktails:
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Spicy dishes → tacos, fajitas, or Korean BBQ.
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Seafood → grilled prawns, ceviche, or fish tacos.
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Light meals → fresh salads or avocado toast at brunch.
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Casual gatherings → perfect for barbecues and outdoor lunches.
Why the Paloma Endures
The Paloma is proof that sometimes the simplest recipes become the most iconic. With just a handful of ingredients, it delivers flavour, refreshment, and versatility. Whether sipped by the pool, paired with a casual meal, or dressed up with creative variations, it’s a cocktail that never goes out of style.
So next time you’re craving something light yet full of character, grab a bottle of tequila, some fresh citrus, and let the Paloma transport you straight to the Mexican sunshine.
Thanks for joining us behind the bar!
The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve. I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below. What are you shaking up these days? What topics would you like to see covered in future posts? Let’s connect and continue the conversation!
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/