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Whenever I’m after a super refreshing booze-free drink, these simple paloma mocktails are always my pick. The mix of tart grapefruit, sweet syrup, and that hint of salt give you all the fun of a classic cocktail, minus the alcohol. Great on a hot day or if you’re chilling with company outdoors, you’ll whip these up in just a couple quick minutes.
The first batch I made for a summer picnic was a hit, and since then everyone keeps asking for more. That blend of grapefruit and lime just makes you want to pour another round.
Zesty Ingredients
- Grapefruit juice (fresh): That’s where all the zing happens Pick a ruby red one if you want extra sweetness
- Lime juice: Adds bright tartness and wakes up every flavor Go for fresh if you can—it’ll really shine
- Maple syrup: Naturally sweetens and mixes perfectly with citrus Stick with the real stuff for max flavor
- Apple cider vinegar: Gives a smooth tang Want a classic cocktail vibe? Try alcohol-free tequila here
- Sea salt: Makes those fruity tastes pop Feels like that old-school salted rim
- Sparkling soda (plain or grapefruit): Adds fizz and freshness Choose a good-quality one with not much sugar
- Tajin or salt (for the rim): Totally up to you Brings a savory, punchy boost Go for flaky salt or classic Tajin if you want it to look and taste just right
Simple Directions
- Get the Rim Ready:
- If you want that snazzy rim, sprinkle Tajin or salt on a plate. Run a grapefruit or lime wedge along your glass, then dip the edge in your spice so it sticks
- Chill the Blend:
- Close up your shaker or a jar with a tight lid, then give it a serious shake for around fifteen or twenty seconds You want it really icy and well mixed
- Sweeten & Add Tang:
- Toss in maple syrup, then apple cider vinegar and sea salt Chuck in 3-4 ice cubes so it cools and mellows
- Juice Mix First:
- Pour both your grapefruit and lime juices together in a shaker or jar, mixing them helps soften that sharp citrus hit
- Pour & Finish:
- Pour your chilled drink over fresh ice in your rimmed glass Top it up with soda for bubbles If you want, drop in a grapefruit slice or lime wheel to make it fancy
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What makes these stand out for me is the grapefruit. Just the smell takes me back to laid-back summer porch times with my folks, everyone sipping on something cold and zesty. No matter what month it is, this always brings those sunny mornings right back.
Best Ways to Store
These mocktails taste best if you drink them right after making, but you can prep the citrus and maple syrup mix ahead and stash it in the fridge for a day. Wait to add the ice and soda so everything stays bubbly and bright. If there’s any left, pop it in a jar with a lid and give it a shake before you pour again.
Swap Ingredients
Trying to cut down on sugar? Use monk fruit or stevia instead of maple syrup. Lemon juice will work if you’re out of lime. Orange or blood orange can fill in for grapefruit. No grapefruit soda? Sub with lime sparkling water or club soda for a different spin.
Fun Ways to Serve
These drinks rock with spicy snacks like Mexican roasted nuts, guac, or grilled street corn. The salty-tang flavor keeps rich bites light and breezy. Make it special for baby showers or brunch, and toss in some edible flowers or thin grapefruit slices on top if you want that wow factor.
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Background & Traditions
The Paloma is a longtime Mexican favorite, prized for mixing citrus with bubbly soda in scorching weather. This no-alc version keeps the party mood, perfect for get-togethers with all ages. Grapefruit’s big in Mexico, and rimming with Tajin really makes it feel true to its roots.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How come these palomas are so tangy?
That pop comes from tons of fresh grapefruit and a squeeze of lime, plus a hit of something sweet to smooth things out.
- → Is it cool to use a different sweetener if maple’s not my fave?
Yup! Go for Stevia, monkfruit, honey, simple syrup—whatever you’ve got on hand.
- → Do I need apple cider vinegar in the mix?
Nope, but it adds a fun kick. You could try zero-proof tequila instead for a classic feel.
- → Got tips for a salty or Tajin rim?
Swipe a juicy lime or grapefruit slice on the glass, then dip into some Tajin or salt so it sticks well on there.
- → Can I prep these ahead if I'm having friends over?
Totally! Mix everything else together and save the fizzy water for right when you're ready to serve.