Time Traveling Table

Outside Mexico, the margarita often steals the spotlight. Inside Mexico, though, many people would tell you the paloma is the cocktail they actually drink most often. Light, citrusy, and incredibly refreshing, it’s the kind of drink you’ll find at backyard barbecues, family celebrations, and lazy afternoons with friends.

I’ll admit, before this Mexican adventure, I’d never even heard of a paloma. Which is kind of shocking considering there was a point in my life when I seriously considered becoming a bartender! One sip, though, and I got the hype. It’s bright, bubbly, and dangerously easy to drink. On a hot summer day, I can absolutely picture myself sitting on a patio with one of these while the grill is going and everyone argues over who makes the best salsa.

Makes: 1 cocktail

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 ounces 100% agave blanco tequila
• ½ ounce freshly squeezed Mexican lime juice
• Pinch of fine sea salt
• Grapefruit soda, chilled, such as Squirt, Jarritos Toronja, or Fresca
• Ice
• Lime wedge, for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a highball or rocks glass with ice.
2. Add the tequila, lime juice, and pinch of salt.
3. Top with chilled grapefruit soda.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.

Notes

• In Mexico, palomas are commonly made with grapefruit soda rather than fresh grapefruit juice.
• Squirt is one of the most classic choices.
• The pinch of salt helps balance the tequila, citrus, and grapefruit soda.
• Use 100% agave tequila for the cleanest flavor.