Cocktails With Katie: Paloma

I can’t believe I’ve only entered into my fourth year of blogging with Orange to Apple. It’s been so fun to see this little site grow and I want to make that trend continue. So, I’ve been trying think of ways to diversify my content and add another dimension. While there are a few different ideas on the drawing board, I’m so excited to release Cocktails With Katie. Once a month, give or take, I will share a new cocktail recipe that I’ve been playing with. I want them to be easy, I want them to be “skinny”, and I want them to be delicious. This month, we’ll be starting with one of my personal favorites, the Paloma.

Background

As a lifelong Floridian, I’d like to think of myself as a citrus connoisseur. Childhood mornings would almost always start with a fresh glass of orange or grapefruit juice from the trees in our backyard. Citrus is my preferred flavor, scent, and even decorative accent. With all of that being said, it shouldn’t come as a shock that one of my favorite cocktails is citrus inspired. With a mix of grapefruit, lime, and tequila, Palomas are always a crowd please.

History

Although the official origins of this grapefruit cocktail are unknown, it was absolutely created in Mexico. Even though Americans think the Margarita is the most cherished drink in the country, the Paloma actually holds that title. The Margarita became hugely popular in the states, and the Paloma sort of fell behind. That’s mainly because yearly grapefruit production in Mexico beats the United States by over half-a-million tons. In states where grapefruit is plentiful, like Florida, you’re going to see the popularity be a little more balanced. Besides, some of the finest tequila experts believe that grapefruit is actually a better pairing than lime.

Ingredients

Amounts are adjustable to fit your preference!

1 cup of tequila blanco (I prefer Altos or Casamigos)
Juice from 4-5 fresh grapefuits
Sparkling grapefruit soda or water
Juice from 1-2 limes
Crushed ice
Grapefruit wedge for garnish

Preparation

To make this cocktail, there are no special steps, or shaker flips, required. I simply put everything straight into the pitcher. I have this one from William and Sonoma and it fits all of my beverage making needs. After everything is mixed together, pour into your favorite glass and sip away! I like to add a grapefruit wedge for a garnish, but I know having a salted rim is also very popular.

Warmer weather, looking at you Spring Break, is just around the corner. Prepping your packing guide is always a must, but finding the perfection concoction is just as important. Absolutely, please drink responsibly!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.