Aperol Paloma
INGREDIENTS
- Rimming salt
- 1 medium lime
- Ice
- 2 oz freshly squeezed red or pink grapefruit juice
- 1 oz blanco (silver) tequila
- 1 oz Aperol
- ¼ tsp agave nectar or simple syrup
- 2 oz cold sparkling water or club soda
- Garnish: Grapefruit slice
INSTRUCTIONS
To begin crafting your Aperol Paloma, start by preparing your glass to enhance the overall drinking experience. Wet the rim of a highball or old-fashioned glass with a wedge of lime, allowing the citrus essence to cling to the edges. Next, dip the rim into coarse salt, creating a savory contrast that complements the cocktail's refreshing flavors. Once your glass is prepped, combine the Aperol, grapefruit juice, and a splash of soda in a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously to chill and mix the ingredients thoroughly, then strain the vibrant concoction into your prepared glass filled with fresh ice. The result is a beautifully balanced cocktail, ready to be enjoyed.
VIDEO HOW-TO
NOTES
Why You’ll Love This Aperol Paloma Cocktail
If you're a fan of the classic Aperol Spritz, especially during the warmer months, the Aperol Paloma is the perfect way to shake up your summer sipping routine. This refreshing cocktail is a modern twist on the traditional Paloma, typically made with tequila and grapefruit soda. Instead, this version uses freshly squeezed red or pink grapefruit juice and sparkling water to deliver a cleaner, more vibrant citrus flavor.
The addition of Aperol introduces a signature touch of sweetness, a hint of herbal bitterness, and that unmistakable sunset-orange hue, making the drink just as visually stunning as it is delicious. The pairing of blanco tequila and Aperol is surprisingly smooth, while the use of real grapefruit juice adds a bright, zesty complexity you won’t get from bottled mixers.
Serve it over ice in a salt-rimmed glass (or go bold with a Tajín rim for a spicy twist) and garnish with a fresh grapefruit wedge. With its light fizz, vibrant flavor, and beautiful presentation, the Aperol Paloma is a go-to summer cocktail that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Highlights:
- Refreshing and balanced: A mix of grapefruit juice, lime, Aperol, tequila, and bubbly water creates a crisp, thirst-quenching drink.
- Perfect for summer: Bright, citrusy, and effortlessly sippable on patios, beaches, or backyard barbecues.
- Naturally beautiful: That bold orange-pink color makes it ideal for impressing guests or adding flair to your cocktail menu.
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