Paloma Recipe

Rim the glass (optional)

Rub the grapefruit wedge around the outer rim of a highball or Collins glass. Dip the rim into a shallow plate of coarse or kosher salt to lightly coat. Set glass aside.

Fill the prepared glass with ice and set in the freezer or refrigerate briefly while you mix to keep it chilled.

Mix base and citrus

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine 2 oz blanco tequila, 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice, 0.5 oz fresh lime juice, 0.5 tsp agave syrup (optional), and 0.25 oz grapefruit liqueur or triple sec (optional).

Shake

Shake vigorously for about 10–12 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted.

Strain the mixture into the prepared ice-filled glass (over fresh ice if you prefer).

Top with soda

Top the drink with about 2 oz club soda (adjust to taste). Stir once gently with a bar spoon to combine, preserving carbonation.

Garnish with the grapefruit wedge or wheel placed on the rim or floated on top. Serve immediately.

Adjust sweetness if desired: if too tart, add an additional 1/4–1/2 tsp agave syrup and stir gently; if too strong, add more club soda (0.5–1 oz).