The Paloma is a classic Mexican cocktail that’s beloved for its fresh and fruity flavor. This non-alcoholic version has the same unique character as the original: a perfect balance of juicy grapefruit, bright lime and a touch of salty sweetness.
Grab your shaker, mix up a batch, and enjoy the taste of summer!
Ingredients
- 2 oz. (60 ml) grapefruit juice (approximately half a small grapefruit)
- 1 oz. (30 ml) fresh lime juice (approximately 1 lime)
- 1 oz. (30 ml) agave syrup
- 4 oz. (120 ml) soda water or sparkling water
- Salt for rim
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Cocktail spoon
- Jigger or measuring spoons
- Citrus juicer
- Highball glass
Instructions
- In a shaker, combine the grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup.
- Shake well to combine.
- Wet the rim of a tall glass with a lime wedge, and then dip the rim into a plate of salt to create a salt rim. The salt is a really important ingredient for this recipe. If you don’t want to rim the glass, add a pinch of salt to the shaker instead.
- Fill the glass with ice and pour over the grapefruit and lime mixture.
- Top with soda water and stir to combine.
- Garnish with a grapefruit wedge or lime wedge.
Tip: I like to use freshly squeezed grapefruit for this recipe. I’m not afraid to get a little pulp into the final drink as it adds surprising little bursts of juiciness.
To add a little flare to the garnish:
- A mixture of salt and cayenne pepper (or finely chopped chilli flakes) on the rim of the glass adds a whole new spicy dimension to this mocktail. If you like the heat, you’ll love this.
- A sprig of fresh rosemary added to the glass gives a beautiful herb perfume that works really well with the grapefruit and lime.
Similar Mocktails
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Non-Alcoholic Paloma FAQ
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about this non-alcoholic Paloma recipe.
Can I use a different sweetener instead of agave syrup?
Yes, you can use any sweetener you prefer. Simple syrup (1:1 ratio of water and sugar) or honey are all good alternatives to agave syrup for this recipe.
Is it necessary to rim the glass with salt?
Rimming the glass with salt is optional, but it does add a nice touch of flavor to the mocktail. If you prefer, add sugar or chili powder/finely chopped chili flakes to the rim instead.
Can I use a different type of sparkling water?
Yes, you can use any type of sparkling water you like. A plain sparkling water or soda water works well, or you can try a flavored sparkling water for a different taste.
How can I make this mocktail a little sweeter or more tart?
If you prefer a sweeter mocktail, you can add more agave syrup. If you prefer a more tart mocktail, you can add more lime juice. Experiment with the ingredients to find the perfect balance for your tastes.
How do I make a large batch of Paloma mocktails for a party?
To make a large batch of Paloma mocktails, simply multiply the ingredients in the recipe by the number of servings you need. You can mix all the ingredients in a pitcher or large container and then pour individual servings into glasses filled with ice.
How many calories are in a Paloma mocktail?
The calorie content of a Paloma mocktail can vary depending on the ingredients used and the serving size. On average, a typical Paloma mocktail made with grapefruit, lime, agave syrup, and soda water can contain around 100-150 calories per serving. Keep in mind that adding sweeteners, syrups, or fruit juices can increase the calorie count.
What are some variations of the Paloma mocktail recipe?
You can have fun with many different variations of this Paloma mocktail recipe. Mix up the fruit by adding fresh strawberries or pineapple juice. Alternatively, you can play with herbs and spices and add mint, cayenne pepper, ginger juice or flavoured tea infusions. The world is your oyster for experimentation.
Did you make this? Tag me @mightymocktail or use the hashtag #mightymocktail!