The Paloma stands alongside the margarita as one of Mexico’s most popular tequila cocktails, and here in Texas, we have fully embraced it. We love the Paloma because it stays light, refreshing, and easy to drink even when the heat climbs.
While frozen margaritas have their place, we often reach for a Paloma when we want something cleaner and less sweet. It delivers bold citrus flavor without feeling heavy, making it a natural fit for patios, lake weekends, and backyard gatherings.
This Texas style Paloma recipe focuses on fresh ingredients, balanced tequila, and simple techniques that work every time.
What Is a Paloma Cocktail?
A Paloma is traditionally made with tequila, grapefruit soda, lime juice, and salt, served over ice in a tall glass. The name translates to dove, a nod to the drink’s light and approachable character.
In Texas, Palomas often lean less sweet. Many drinkers prefer fresh grapefruit juice topped with mineral water instead of sugary soda. This keeps the drink crisp and lets the tequila shine through.
For anyone who enjoys tequila cocktails that feel lighter than margaritas, the Paloma is an easy favorite.
Authentic Texas Paloma Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 oz blanco tequila
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- 3 to 4 oz grapefruit soda or fresh grapefruit juice with sparkling water
- Small pinch of salt
- Ice
- Optional Tajín or coarse salt rim
Instructions
- Rim a highball glass with lime and salt if desired.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- Add tequila, lime juice, and salt.
- Top with grapefruit soda or juice and sparkling water.
- Stir gently and garnish with grapefruit or lime.
When we make Palomas, fresh lime juice is non-negotiable. Bottled juice flattens the flavor and takes away the brightness that defines this drink. The same goes for tequila quality. Bottles featured in Zipps Liquor’s guide to best tequilas for margaritas also work beautifully in Palomas thanks to their clean agave profiles.
A Paloma cocktail is made with tequila, grapefruit, lime, and salt served over ice. Texas style Palomas often use fresh grapefruit juice and mineral water for a lighter, less sweet finish that highlights tequila flavor.
Texas Paloma Variations We Pour Often
Spicy Jalapeño Paloma
We add two thin jalapeño slices before ice for gentle heat that builds with every sip. Tajín rims pair naturally with citrus and work especially well alongside Tex Mex dishes.
Ranch Water Inspired Paloma
We swap grapefruit soda for fresh grapefruit juice and Topo Chico when we want a drier finish. This version blends two Texas favorites into one glass. If smoky flavors appeal to you, the Texas mezcal and Mexican spirits guide offers a helpful background.
Smoky Mezcal Paloma
When we want deeper flavor, we split the base using tequila and mezcal. The smoky notes pair well with barbecue and evening gatherings.
Choosing the Right Tequila for a Paloma
We almost always recommend blanco tequila for Palomas. Its crisp agave flavor supports citrus without overpowering the drink. Reposado works for cooler evenings, though it moves the profile away from the classic style.
When we help customers plan parties or casual get togethers, we suggest versatile tequilas that balance quality and value. Many of those picks also appear in our spring cocktail planning content.
When We Choose a Paloma in Texas
We see Palomas poured everywhere Texans gather. Lake days, tailgates, and relaxed dinners all call for drinks that stay refreshing without constant refills.
Palomas also fit lighter drinking preferences discussed in Zipps Liquor’s guide to lower calorie alcohol choices, making them comfortable for longer gatherings.
Where We Buy Paloma Ingredients in Texas
We stock tequila, grapefruit sodas, mineral water, and cocktail essentials at Zipps Liquor locations across Texas communities. New store openings, including Mineral Wells, TX, continue to make shopping more convenient.
When you visit, our local staff can help you choose the right tequila for citrus based cocktails and offer suggestions based on how you plan to serve the drink.
Make Your Next Texas Paloma With Us
The Paloma proves that simple cocktails often deliver the most satisfaction. With fresh citrus, balanced tequila, and thoughtful preparation, it becomes a repeat favorite.We make it easy to grab everything you need for an authentic Texas Paloma. Contact Zipps Liquor or check the Zipps Liquor near you today and stock up with confidence.
