Go Back

Paloma Mocktail

A crisp, citrusy non-alcoholic drink that tastes like a vacation in a glass. This refreshing Paloma mocktail brings all the bright grapefruit flavor balanced with lime and a hint of salt, creating a sophisticated beverage perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Calories: 95

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 3 ounces fresh grapefruit juice about half a medium grapefruit
  • 1 ounce fresh lime juice about one lime
  • 0.5 ounces simple syrup
  • 2 ounces sparkling water or club soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt for rimming
  • 1/4 teaspoon Tajin or chili-lime seasoning optional, for rimming
  • 4 to 6 ice cubes
  • Grapefruit slice or lime wheel for garnish

Equipment

  • Highball or rocks glass
  • Jigger or measuring cup
  • Bar spoon or regular spoon
  • Citrus juicer or hand-squeeze method
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Ice maker or freezer with ice

Method
 

  1. Pour sea salt (and Tajin if using) onto a small plate. Take your highball glass and rub the rim with a fresh lime wedge to create a sticky surface where the salt will adhere. Rotate the moistened glass rim gently in the salt until evenly coated.
  2. Add 4 to 6 ice cubes to your prepared glass, filling it roughly halfway.
  3. Cut your grapefruit in half and juice both halves using a citrus juicer or your hand. You'll need 3 ounces of juice, which typically comes from about half a medium grapefruit. Do the same with your lime, aiming for 1 ounce of juice.
  4. Use your jigger to measure exactly 3 ounces of fresh grapefruit juice into the glass. Pour it slowly over the ice to avoid splashing.
  5. Measure 1 ounce of fresh lime juice and pour it into the glass.
  6. Measure and add 0.5 ounces of simple syrup to the glass.
  7. Pour 2 ounces of cold sparkling water or club soda into the glass, filling it nearly to the top.
  8. Using a bar spoon or regular spoon, stir all ingredients together gently for about 10 seconds until everything combines. Top with a fresh grapefruit slice or lime wheel for garnish.

Notes

Always use fresh citrus juice rather than bottled whenever possible. The difference in brightness and flavor complexity is significant. Chill your glass in the freezer for 5 minutes before assembling the drink to keep everything colder longer. Make simple syrup in bulk by combining equal parts sugar and hot water, then store it in a glass jar in your fridge for up to one month. Serve immediately after assembling for the best taste and texture.