Paloma Twist Cocktail Recipe

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The Paloma Twist puts a fresh spin on Mexico’s beloved tequila cocktail.

This crisp and refreshing drink mixes silver tequila with grapefruit soda, lime juice, and a splash of elderflower liqueur for an elegant twist on the classic recipe.

The drink’s name comes from the Spanish word for “dove,” matching its light and airy nature.

A salt rim adds balance to the sweet and tart flavors, while the elderflower brings subtle floral notes that enhance the natural citrus.

This cocktail is perfect for warm spring and summer gatherings.

You can prepare it in just minutes.

The simple recipe makes it easy to mix individual servings or scale up for parties.

Paloma Twist Cocktail Recipe

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This fresh take on the classic Paloma adds cucumber and mint for a cool, refreshing taste. The recipe serves one and takes about 5 minutes to make.

John

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Total Time 5 minutes minutes

Serving Size 1

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Muddler
• Jigger or measuring cup
• Highball glass
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Citrus juicer
• Ice

Ingredients

• 2 oz silver tequila
• 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 2 cucumber slices
• 3 mint leaves
• Grapefruit soda about 2 oz
• Salt for rim optional
• Ice cubes

Instructions

• If you want a salt rim, rub a lime wedge around the rim of the glass and dip it in salt.
• Put cucumber slices and mint leaves in the shaker.
• Muddle gently to release their oils and flavors.
• Add tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
• Fill the shaker with ice and shake for 10-15 seconds.
• Strain the mixture into an ice-filled highball glass.
• Pour in grapefruit soda and stir gently.
• Add a cucumber slice and mint sprig as garnish.

Notes

You can use store-bought grapefruit juice, but fresh juice gives better flavor.

Serve the drink right away while the bubbles are still fresh.

For a spicy twist, muddle 2-3 thin jalapeño slices with the cucumber and mint.

To make it non-alcoholic, use extra grapefruit soda instead of tequila.

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Tasting Notes

The Paloma Twist brings bright citrus flavors to the forefront.

Fresh grapefruit juice gives a crisp, tart taste that pairs well with the earthy notes of tequila.

A gentle sweetness from agave nectar softens the citrus punch.

Lime adds an extra layer of tanginess and keeps each sip refreshing.

Bubbles from the sparkling water create a light, fizzy texture.

The salt rim adds a savory touch that highlights the natural flavors of grapefruit and tequila.

The drink has a pale pink color with a slight golden hue.

When served over ice, tiny bubbles rise to the surface for an appealing look.

Key Flavor Notes:

• Primary: Grapefruit, tequila
• Secondary: Lime, agave
• Finish: Mineral, salty

The cocktail leaves a clean, citrusy aftertaste.

Its moderate alcohol strength makes it great for casual sipping.

Substitute

The Paloma Twist can use several alternative ingredients if you don’t have the originals.

Replace tequila with mezcal for a smokier drink.

You can also use white rum or vodka for a lighter cocktail.

Swap fresh grapefruit juice with store-bought juice.

Both pink and white grapefruit juice work well.

If you don’t have lime cordial, mix equal parts fresh lime juice and simple syrup.

This gives a similar sweet-tart flavor.

Try soda water substitutes like grapefruit soda, Sprite, or tonic water.

Each option changes the drink’s sweetness.

Rim alternatives:

• Salt mixed with chili powder
• Tajin seasoning
• Sugar
• Pink Himalayan salt

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