A Bright, Citrusy Cocktail with Just Enough Heat

A good Paloma is hard to beat.

Fresh grapefruit, sharp lime and tequila already make one of the easiest cocktails to drink, but adding a little jalapeño takes it somewhere even better - cooling, citrusy and gently fiery all at once.

It’s the kind of cocktail that works particularly well for warm evenings, tacos with friends or relaxed hosting where you want drinks that feel impressive without requiring too much effort.

Light, refreshing and dangerously easy to keep topping up.

Serves 1

You’ll Need

• 50ml tequila, Blanco or Reposado
• 100ml fresh grapefruit juice
• 15ml agave syrup or simple syrup
• Juice of ½ lime
• 2–3 slices fresh jalapeño, depending on heat preference
• Splash of soda water
• Ice
• Salt or chilli salt, optional for the rim
• Grapefruit wedge, to garnish

To Make

If using salt or chilli salt, run a lime wedge around the rim of the glass and dip lightly into the salt.

Fill the glass with ice and add the jalapeño slices.

Pour over the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice and agave syrup, then stir well.

Top with soda water and garnish with a grapefruit wedge.

Serve immediately while properly cold.

Make It Your Own

• Add extra jalapeño for more heat
• Swap agave syrup for honey syrup
• Use grapefruit soda for a quicker version
• Add Tajín around the rim for extra spice and sharpness

Why This Works

Palomas already balance sweetness, bitterness and citrus particularly well, but the jalapeño adds just enough warmth to make everything feel brighter and more layered.

The grapefruit keeps things fresh and slightly bitter, while lime sharpens the whole drink without overpowering the tequila underneath.

It’s refreshing, but still interesting enough to sip slowly.

Best Served With

Tacos, grilled prawns, tortilla chips, ceviche or anything salty and spicy.

Explore the full Mexican pantry here:
Peak & The Pantry Mexican Pantry Collection

FAQs

What tequila works best in a Paloma?

Blanco tequila keeps things bright and fresh, while Reposado adds a slightly smoother, richer flavour.

Is a Paloma sweeter than a Margarita?

Usually yes. Palomas tend to be lighter, more refreshing and slightly less sharp than Margaritas.

Can I make this less spicy?

Absolutely - simply reduce the jalapeño or leave it out entirely.

What’s the best grapefruit juice to use?

Fresh grapefruit juice gives the cleanest flavour, though good-quality bottled juice also works well.