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Perfect Paloma Grapefruit Lime

Category: Refined Broths and Bisques

Enjoy a refreshing, alcohol-free Paloma featuring fresh grapefruit and lime juices balanced with maple syrup. A hint of apple cider vinegar or non-alcoholic tequila adds complexity, while sea salt and a sparkling soda top lift citrusy notes. Enhance with a salt or Tajin rim and garnish with lime or grapefruit wedges for an extra burst of flavor. This invigorating drink is perfect for warm days or gatherings—offering a zesty, tart-sweet balance without alcohol. Adjust sweetness to taste with preferred syrups and explore different sparkling waters for a unique twist every time.

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Sandra
By Sandra Sandra
Updated on Mon, 26 May 2025 19:43:25 GMT
Two glasses of Paloma mocktails with grapefruit and lime. Pin
Two glasses of Paloma mocktails with grapefruit and lime. | howtogourmet.com

This crisp and colorful Paloma mocktail has become my go-to drink when I want something refreshing without the buzz. With bright grapefruit and lime flavors balanced by a hint of sweetness and fizz, it is easy to make and perfect for any celebration or afternoon treat.

For me these mocktails started as a party option but they ended up my nightly treat after hot summer walks with my family. The sparkling finish always feels like a little celebration.

Ingredients

  • Grapefruit juice: brings tartness and aromatic citrus flavor choose ruby red for a sweeter profile and go with freshly squeezed when possible for best taste
  • Lime juice: brightens the flavors and adds a sharp bite always use freshly squeezed juice for maximum freshness
  • Maple syrup or preferred sweetener: adds balance and roundness try pure maple syrup for a subtle earthy touch or use honey or agave for different notes
  • Apple cider vinegar or non alcoholic tequila: adds complexity and a gentle bite that mimics the kick of spirits select high quality vinegar that is raw and unfiltered or try a zero proof tequila for a fun twist
  • Sea salt: sharpens the citrus and enhances the overall drink flavor use a flaky finishing salt for the rim if possible
  • Plain soda water or grapefruit soda: brings essential bubbles to the party opt for plain for a lighter sip or grapefruit for an extra punch
  • Salt or Tajin for the rim: rounds out each sip and adds a dash of flavor Tajin gives a mild spicy savory edge
  • Lime or grapefruit wedge for rimming and garnishing: makes your mocktail look and taste extra fresh and fun

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Glass Rim:
Pour a thin layer of salt or Tajin onto a small plate. Rub the rim of your chosen glass with a wedge of lime or grapefruit to moisten it then dip the rim into the salty mixture firmly so it sticks.
Combine the Mocktail Base:
Pour grapefruit juice lime juice maple syrup apple cider vinegar and a pinch of sea salt into a cocktail shaker. Add about three to four ice cubes to chill the mixture well then seal the shaker.
Shake to Chill and Blend:
Shake the cocktail shaker vigorously for at least fifteen seconds so the juices sweetener and flavorings become fully blended and thoroughly chilled.
Strain and Top:
Open the shaker and strain the liquid into your rimmed glass filled with fresh ice. Pour gently so you do not disturb the rim. Top with soda water or grapefruit soda for extra bubbles and brightness.
Garnish and Serve:
Finish with a fresh wedge of lime or grapefruit on the rim or floated in the glass and serve right away for peak flavor and texture.
Two glasses of pink grapefruit lime mocktails. Pin
Two glasses of pink grapefruit lime mocktails. | howtogourmet.com

I always look forward to using pink grapefruits for their sweetness and color. The first time I mixed in a splash of non alcoholic tequila my family could not believe it was a mocktail. It turned family taco night into a real event.

Storage Tips

This mocktail is best made fresh to keep the bubbles lively and citrusy notes bright. You can mix the base up to four hours ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge. Only add ice and soda water just before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap maple syrup for honey syrup or simple syrup to suit your taste. Use stevia or monkfruit if you prefer no added sugar. If you have no apple cider vinegar try a dash of lemon juice or skip it entirely for a softer profile. Tajin rim can be replaced with plain chili powder mixed with salt.

Two glasses of pink grapefruit lime drinks. Pin
Two glasses of pink grapefruit lime drinks. | howtogourmet.com

Serving Suggestions

Serve this mocktail alongside Mexican style feasts barbecue fare or light salads. For brunch I like to garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint or a few pomegranate seeds on top for a pop of color.

The Paloma in Context

The classic Paloma is a beloved Mexican cocktail featuring tequila grapefruit and lime. This cheerful mocktail version swaps out the spirits for a tangy yet gentle sipper that everyone at the table can enjoy. Grapefruit drinks like this have long been enjoyed for their digestive benefits and cooling qualities.

Recipe FAQs

→ What substitutes can I use instead of maple syrup?

Try honey syrup, simple syrup, Stevia, or monkfruit to suit your sweetness preference while maintaining balanced flavor.

→ What does apple cider vinegar add?

It brings a tangy complexity that mimics depth and rounds out the citrus, making the drink more interesting without alcohol.

→ Can I use flavored soda water?

Yes, lime or grapefruit sparkling water works nicely—experiment with different flavors to customize the drink to your taste.

→ How do I get the perfect rim for the glass?

Moisten the rim with citrus, then dip into salt or Tajin on a plate, pressing gently to ensure an even coating that adds both flavor and presentation.

→ Can I make this drink ahead of time?

Mix the base in advance and refrigerate. Add ice and soda water just before serving to preserve its effervescence and freshness.

Perfect Paloma Grapefruit Lime

Vibrant grapefruit and lime blend with maple, sea salt, and fizz for a light, refreshing non-alcoholic Paloma.

Preparation Time
7 min
Cooking Time
~
Total Time
7 min
By Sandra: Sandra

Category: Soups

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: Modern

Yield: 2 Servings (2 mocktails)

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

Ingredients

→ Main

01 60 ml freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
02 30 ml freshly squeezed lime juice
03 15 ml maple syrup or preferred sweetener
04 1 ml apple cider vinegar or non-alcoholic tequila
05 Pinch of sea salt
06 120 ml plain soda water or grapefruit soda (optional)

→ Rim (optional)

07 Salt or Tajin for glass rim
08 Lime or grapefruit wedge for rimming

Steps

Step 01

Spread a small amount of salt or Tajin on a shallow plate. Run a lime or grapefruit wedge along the rim of each glass, then dip the moistened rim into the salt or Tajin, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 02

Add grapefruit juice, lime juice, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of sea salt to a cocktail shaker. Add 3 to 4 ice cubes and seal tightly.

Step 03

Shake the shaker vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds until well chilled and thoroughly mixed.

Step 04

Strain the mixture into a tumbler over fresh ice. Top with soda water or grapefruit soda if desired.

Step 05

Garnish with a wedge of lime or grapefruit and serve immediately.

Additional Notes

  1. For a brighter citrus profile, use lime sparkling water or add an extra splash of fresh grapefruit juice.
  2. Alternative sweeteners such as honey syrup, simple syrup, Stevia, or monkfruit can be substituted according to preference.
  3. Apple cider vinegar adds a layer of complexity, while non-alcoholic tequila enhances the classic mocktail taste.

Required Equipment

  • Cocktail shaker
  • Tumbler or serving glasses
  • Jigger or measuring tools
  • Shallow plate
  • Ice cubes
  • Strainer

Nutritional Information (per serving)

The provided details are for informational purposes and should not replace professional health advice.
  • Calories: 62
  • Fats: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15.3 g
  • Proteins: 0.3 g