The Paloma. It’s the laid-back cousin of the Margarita who doesn’t need salt rims or extra flair to steal the spotlight, but dresses up real nice if you feel like getting fancy. Easy to make, easier to drink, and just complex enough to keep things interesting.

Born in Mexico, perfected on patios everywhere — this is what you pour when you want something that feels simple but tastes like you tried.

Three ingredients, zero excuses. Pace yourself!

Ingredients

• 2 ounces tequila (Blanco is suggested but Reposado will also work)
• 1/2 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 4 ounces Grapefruit soda, chilled, to top
• Pinch of salt
• Garnish: lime wheel

Directions

1. Add the tequila, lime juice, and pinch of salt to the glass, and fill with ice.
2. Top with grapefruit soda, and stir briefly and gently to combine.
3. Garnish with a lime wheel.

Notes

If you want a less sweet version replace the 4 oz of grapefruit soda with the following:

• 2 to 3 oz grapefruit juice (fresh juice would really elevate this)
• 1/2 tsp simple syrup or agave syrup (or sweeten to taste)
• Top with sparkling water

Another way to dress up this cocktail is to serve it with a Tajín* or a coarse salt rim

* Tajín is a popular Mexican seasoning blend made from a popular Mexican seasoning blend made from Mild chili peppers, dehydrated lime juice, and sea salt. It is tangy, savoury and mildly spicy flavour and complements so may things. Fruits, meats, drinks, you name it