Refreshing Sparkling Paloma Drink

Category: Drinks for Every Season

Celebrate citrusy refreshment with this Sparkling Paloma. Made with tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, and lime, it's topped with fizzy soda water for a perfect balance of sweetness and zest. A salted rim adds a savory touch, while optional garnishes like grapefruit wedges or jalapeño slices can elevate the drink to your taste. This easy-to-make cocktail offers elegance and vibrant flavors for any occasion.

Fatiha
By Fatiha Fatiha
Last updated Mon, 05 Jan 2026 19:16:41 GMT
A glass of pink drink with a slice of lime and a sprig of mint. Pin
A glass of pink drink with a slice of lime and a sprig of mint. | zestplate.com

This refreshing sparkling Paloma is the perfect balance of tart grapefruit, zesty lime, and sweet nectars, elevated with a fizzy soda finish. It’s my go-to for brunches or casual evenings with friends, offering a vibrant twist on a classic Mexican cocktail.

I was drawn to the Paloma's simplicity the first time I tried it. Its citrus flavor and fizzy character have made it a staple for gatherings, and adding soda water ensures an approachable, light drink.

Ingredients

How To Make Sparkling Paloma with Soda Water

A glass of pink sparkling water with a slice of lime.
A glass of pink sparkling water with a slice of lime. | zestplate.com

The crisp fresh grapefruit juice is my favorite part of this recipe. One summer, we had a small patio party, and the Paloma’s natural brightness fit perfectly with the laid-back feel.

Storage Tips

Ingredient Substitutions

Serving Suggestions

The History of the Paloma

A glass of pink drink with a lemon wedge on top.
A glass of pink drink with a lemon wedge on top. | zestplate.com

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of tequila should I use?

You can use blanco tequila for a fresh, crisp flavor or reposado añejo for a richer, deeper flavor.

→ Can I use a substitute for soda water?

Yes! Grapefruit soda, club soda, or sparkling water can all work as substitutes, each offering a slightly different flavor profile.

→ Can I make this drink sweeter?

To make it sweeter, adjust the amount of simple syrup or use grapefruit soda instead of soda water.

→ How do I rim the glass with salt?

Run a lime wedge around the rim of the glass, then dip it in kosher or coarse salt to coat evenly.

→ What are some garnish options for this drink?

Popular garnishes include grapefruit wedges, lime wheels, mint sprigs, or a slice of jalapeño for a spicy twist.

Sparkling Paloma with Soda

Fresh citrus and tequila mingle with soda for a vibrant Sparkling Paloma.

Preparation Time
5 min
Cooking Time
~
Total Duration
5 min
By Fatiha: Fatiha

Category: Beverages

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: Mexican

Output: 1 Servings

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb, Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 2 oz blanco tequila or reposado añejo for richer flavor
02 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
03 0.5 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
04 0.25-0.5 oz simple syrup or agave nectar to taste
05 2-3 oz soda water, club soda, or sparkling water
06 kosher salt or coarse salt for rim

→ Optional Ingredients

07 grapefruit soda for extra sweetness
08 ice cubes
09 garnishes: grapefruit wedge, lime wheel, mint sprig, or jalapeño slice

Directions

Step 01

Run a lime wedge around the rim of a highball glass, then dip in salt to coat. Fill the glass with ice.

Step 02

In a shaker, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Add ice and shake for 15 seconds.

Step 03

Strain the mixture into the prepared glass over ice. Top with soda water and stir gently.

Step 04

Garnish with grapefruit wedge, lime wheel, mint sprig, or jalapeño slice as desired.

Required Equipment

  • Highball glass
  • Shaker

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These figures serve as estimates and are not a substitute for medical advice.
  • Calories: 160
  • Fat: ~
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Protein: 0.2 g