Smoky Grapefruit Paloma
The paloma is an easygoing tequila highball, and this version keeps its refreshing character front and center. Fresh grapefruit and lime bring lively acidity, agave softens the sharp edges, and sparkling water gives every glass a clean finish.
A chile-salt rim supplies the smoky note without turning the drink heavy or fiery. Smoked paprika provides most of the aroma, while a small pinch of chipotle adds just enough warmth to complement grilled food.
Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice gives the cocktail a pleasantly bittersweet flavor that bottled soda cannot quite match. Chill the juice, tequila, and sparkling water in advance so the ice cools the drink without excessive dilution.
Serve these palomas alongside shrimp tacos, charred corn, or a crisp tomatillo snack. The recipe makes four modest cocktails for an adult gathering, and each glass is topped individually so the bubbles stay lively.
Nutrition (per serving)
Directions
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1
Combine the kosher salt, smoked paprika, and chipotle powder on a small plate, breaking up any clumps with your fingertips.
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2
Run the grapefruit wedge around half of each of four 10- to 12-ounce highball glasses, then dip the moistened edges into the chile salt for a partial rim.
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3
Fill a large cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup.
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4
Seal the shaker and shake firmly for 12 to 15 seconds, until the outside feels thoroughly cold.
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5
Fill the prepared glasses with fresh ice. Strain the grapefruit mixture evenly among the glasses, dividing all of the liquid.
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6
Top each glass with 2 ounces sparkling water and stir once gently from the bottom. Garnish with a grapefruit half-moon and serve immediately.
Ingredients
- Kosher Salt:1 tbsp
- Smoked Paprika:1/4 tsp
- Chipotle Chile Powder:1/8 tsp
- Grapefruit Wedge:1
- Blanco Tequila:6 fl oz
- Fresh Pink Grapefruit Juice:8 fl oz
- Fresh Lime Juice:2 fl oz
- Agave Syrup:1 1/2 fl oz
- Chilled Sparkling Water:8 fl oz
- Ice:4 cups
- Thin Pink Grapefruit Half-Moons:4
Tips & Notes
- Taste the grapefruit juice before mixing; if it is especially sweet, reduce the agave syrup slightly.
- For a gentler rim, omit the chipotle powder and use only smoked paprika with the salt.
- Keep the sparkling water unopened and chilled until serving to preserve its carbonation.
