We’ve always been fans of the classic Paloma, that zesty Mexican cocktail blending tequila and grapefruit for a refreshing escape. Originating from sunny Mexico it’s a go-to for lively gatherings yet often packs extra calories.
That’s why we’re excited to share our skinny Paloma recipe, a lighter twist that swaps sugary soda for fresh ingredients. It’s simple to make and perfect for health-conscious sippers who don’t want to skip the fun.
Ingredients
To craft our vibrant Skinny Paloma – a lighter take on the classic Mexican favorite – we select fresh, high-quality ingredients that keep calories in check while bursting with zesty flavors. Below, we list them in the order they’ll be used, with precise measurements and prep notes for effortless preparation.
- Tequila (2 ounces): Opt for a high-quality, 100% agave blanco tequila as our base spirit; it provides the authentic kick without added sugars.
- Fresh grapefruit juice (4 ounces): Squeeze this from ripe, juicy grapefruits for a naturally sweet and tart profile – we recommend using a citrus juicer to yield about 1 medium grapefruit per serving.
- Lime juice (1 ounce): Freshly squeezed from 1 to 2 limes; this adds the essential bright acidity that balances the drink’s flavors.
- Sparkling water (to top, about 2 ounces): Use unflavored, calorie-free sparkling water to mimic the fizz of traditional soda while keeping things skinny and refreshing.
- Sea salt (for the rim, about 1 teaspoon): Coarse sea salt to rim the glass; lightly crush it if needed for better adhesion and a subtle mineral note.
- Ice cubes (1 cup): Crushed or cubed ice to chill the cocktail; ensure it’s fresh to maintain that crisp, invigorating texture.
- Grapefruit slice (for garnish, 1 slice per glass): A thin slice of fresh grapefruit; this not only enhances visual appeal but also adds a hint of aroma when served.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our refreshing Skinny Paloma cocktail efficiently, we recommend having the right tools on hand. These items help us mix, measure, and serve with precision while keeping the process simple and enjoyable.
Here’s a list of the essential equipment, organized by function for easy reference:
- Cocktail Shaker: A must-have for blending the tequila, grapefruit juice, and lime juice smoothly to create that perfect, chilled mix.
- Jigger or Measuring Cup: We use this to accurately measure out the 2 ounces of tequila, 4 ounces of grapefruit juice, and 1 ounce of lime juice, ensuring our drink stays balanced and low-calorie.
- Citrus Juicer: Ideal for extracting fresh juice from grapefruits and limes, as it maximizes yield and minimizes effort for our health-conscious recipe.
- Highball Glass: Our preferred serving glass for the Skinny Paloma, holding about 12-16 ounces to accommodate ice, the cocktail, and sparkling water without overflow.
- Small Plate: Used for rimming the glass with coarse sea salt, making the presentation vibrant and enhancing the sensory experience.
- Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for slicing the grapefruit garnish, allowing us to add a fresh, visually appealing touch to our drink.
- Bar Spoon or Stirring Stick: Helpful for gently stirring in the sparkling water at the end, preserving the effervescence and light texture.
With these tools, we can craft our Skinny Paloma quickly and effectively, transitioning seamlessly from ingredients to the mixing process.
Instructions
We make preparing our Skinny Paloma straightforward and efficient, building on the fresh ingredients and tools we’ve outlined to craft a low-calorie cocktail bursting with zesty grapefruit flavors and a refreshing fizz.
Prepare Ingredients
First, we gather and prep all our ingredients to ensure everything is ready for mixing. Start by juicing the citrus: Use a citrus juicer to extract 4 ounces of fresh grapefruit juice and 1 ounce of lime juice, capturing their vibrant, tangy essence that forms the heart of our Skinny Paloma.
Next, prepare the glass rim: Pour 1 teaspoon of coarse sea salt onto a small plate. Rub the rim of a highball glass with a lime wedge (not listed as an ingredient but implied for rimming), then dip it into the salt for a salty, textured edge that enhances every sip.
Finally, measure out the liquids and other components: Use a jigger to portion 2 ounces of 100% agave blanco tequila, and have 2 ounces of calorie-free sparkling water, 1 cup of ice, and a grapefruit slice for garnish at hand. This step sets the stage for a crisp, invigorating drink that keeps calories low while maximizing flavor.
Mix the Drink
We combine the elements in a cocktail shaker to create our Skinny Paloma’s signature light and effervescent profile. Add the 2 ounces of tequila, 4 ounces of grapefruit juice, and 1 ounce of lime juice to the shaker along with 1 cup of ice, then seal and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until the mixture is chilled and slightly frothy, releasing the bright, citrusy aromas.
Once shaken, strain the contents into the prepared highball glass filled with fresh ice for a cool, refreshing base. Gently top with 2 ounces of sparkling water using a bar spoon to stir lightly, preserving the fizzy bubbles that add a lively sparkle without added sugars. Finish by garnishing with a grapefruit slice on the rim, creating a visually appealing and tart, invigorating cocktail ready to enjoy.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted the Skinny Paloma as a vibrant, health-focused option that keeps the fun alive without the extra calories. It’s ideal for gatherings where we prioritize balance and flavor.
Next time you’re mixing drinks, try this version—it’s a simple way to refresh our routines and savor every sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Skinny Paloma?
A Skinny Paloma is a healthier twist on the classic Mexican cocktail. It uses fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, and sparkling water instead of sugary soda, keeping the tequila base while cutting calories. This version maintains the refreshing taste but is ideal for those watching their intake, making it perfect for social events or everyday enjoyment.
How is a Skinny Paloma different from the traditional Paloma?
The traditional Paloma mixes tequila with grapefruit soda, which can be high in sugar and calories. The Skinny Paloma swaps out the soda for fresh grapefruit juice and calorie-free sparkling water, plus lime juice for extra zest. This results in a lighter, more nutritious drink without sacrificing flavor, appealing to health-conscious cocktail lovers.
What ingredients are needed for a Skinny Paloma?
You’ll need 2 ounces of 100% agave blanco tequila, 4 ounces of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, 1 ounce of lime juice, 2 ounces of calorie-free sparkling water, a teaspoon of coarse sea salt for the glass rim, 1 cup of ice, and a grapefruit slice for garnish. These high-quality ingredients ensure a vibrant, low-calorie cocktail.
How do you make a Skinny Paloma?
Start by rimming a highball glass with sea salt. In a cocktail shaker, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and ice; shake well. Strain into the glass, top with sparkling water, and garnish with a grapefruit slice. This simple process takes minutes and yields a crisp, invigorating drink that’s easy to prepare at home.
Is a Skinny Paloma healthier than the original?
Yes, the Skinny Paloma is healthier due to its use of fresh juices and sparkling water, which eliminate added sugars from soda. It’s lower in calories while retaining the tequila’s benefits and grapefruit’s vitamin C. This makes it a great choice for those seeking a flavorful cocktail without the guilt, perfect for fitness-minded individuals.
What equipment is required to prepare a Skinny Paloma?
Essential tools include a cocktail shaker for mixing, a jigger for measuring, a citrus juicer for fresh juices, a highball glass for serving, and ice. These items help create a professional-quality drink efficiently. No fancy gear is needed, making it accessible for home bartenders.