The Paloma cocktail is one of the best things I have discovered in the past few years. In Mexico, a Paloma is simply Squirt soda and tequila—which is simple and delicious, but I prefer my fresh approach to it and really think it doesn't even need tequila because of the complexity of flavors here. Bitter grapefruit meets the soft and sweet agave nectar, which is balanced with tart lime juice and sparkling water. And don’t forget the salt, because that is what really pulls this whole drink together.
Virgin Paloma
Serves 20 (in 10-ounce rocks glasses, filled halfway with ice)
1 ½ cups lime juice (I like Nellie & Joe’s Key Lime)
5 cups 100% white grapefruit juice
1 ½ cups agave nectar
½ teaspoon salt
8 cups club soda
½ teaspoon fine grain salt
2 limes, for serving
In a gallon jug (using a funnel), pour in 1 ½ cups lime juice, 5 cups white grapefruit juice, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 ½ cups agave nectar.
Place cover on the jug and swirl awhile until agave nectar dissolves.
Right before serving, carefully add 8 cups of club soda, cover the jug, swirl again, and pour into a serving pitcher or punch bowl.
Garnish with sliced limes and serve ice on the side.
Purchase the Lark Cocktails book for dozens more great recipes! #livinglark
