Please tell me you need a refreshing Paloma.
An icy, fruity, bubbly Paloma.
A good Paloma on a sunny Thursday is everything — warm weather, long afternoons and that carefree summer feeling. It’s simple, delicious and exactly what you want when the days are bright and hot.
Also: this drink is ombré — a little throwback that’s undeniably pretty and fun to serve.
I’ve been determined to create a watermelon-grapefruit cocktail that balances both flavors without becoming odd. After sharing countless fruity cocktails — margaritas, sangria and mojitos — I wanted a fresh spin on the classic Paloma by adding watermelon juice, and the result is delightful.
I’ve made Palomas before, sticking to grapefruit and adding twists like salty chili sugar, but watermelon juice brings a bright, sweet counterpoint that pairs beautifully with the citrus. The drink is sweet, refreshing and dangerously easy to drink.
If you love fresh fruit with a hint of citrus, you’ll adore this version. It’s crisp, lightly effervescent and immensely drinkable — so don’t be surprised if it disappears fast.
Watermelon Grapefruit Palomas
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Ingredients
- 2 ounce grapefruit syrup
- 2 ounces tequila
- 3 to 4 ounces watermelon juice
- 2 ounces club soda or a lime-flavored seltzer
- grapefruit slices or watermelon wedges for garnish
- crushed ice
grapefruit syrup
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
- 1 cup sugar
Instructions
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To make fresh watermelon juice: add about 2 cups cubed watermelon to a blender and puree until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh into a bowl to remove pulp and seeds, leaving bright watermelon juice.
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Assemble the drink: fill a glass with crushed ice. Add the grapefruit syrup and tequila and stir to combine. Pour in the watermelon juice, then top with club soda or seltzer. Garnish with a grapefruit slice or watermelon wedge and serve immediately.
grapefruit syrup
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Combine grapefruit juice and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and bring to a brief boil. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature; it will thicken slightly. Store refrigerated for a few days.
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Really — it’s basically fruit juice with a kick.