Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with this unique spin on Mexico’s favorite cocktail, the Paloma! Yup, you heard right, margs are out and palomas are in. And in my opinion, they always have been.
This paloma recipe is an orange version of the cocktail that classically features grapefruit soda, lime juice, and tequila. One of the best aspects of this drink is its simple ingredient list, and that remains true in this rendition.
With a gorgeous color and refreshing quality, don’t be surprised if this drink ends up in regular rotation.
¡Salud! Feliz Cinco de Mayo!
Orange–Rosemary Paloma
- Yield: 1 cocktail + 1 cup syrup 1x
Ingredients
2 ounces tequila
2 ounces fresh orange juice
2 ounces orange flavored soda water (such as La Croix)
½ ounce Orange–Rosemary Syrup (recipe below)
Strip of orange peel for garnish
For the Orange–Rosemary Syrup:
1 cup water
⅓ cup sugar
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
2 strips orange peel
Instructions
Fill cocktail glass (high ball or low ball work well) with ice, then fill cocktail shaker ¾ full of ice. Add tequila, orange juice, soda water, and simple syrup- to shaker. Shake for 30 seconds and strain into cocktail glass. Garnish with a piece of orange peel.
The ratio of sugar to water in this simple syrup is not the classic 1:1, and the reason for this is simply preference. For people who like drinks a little less sweet like I do, then this is the way to go. If you know you’re someone who prefers a sweeter drink, simply increase the amount of sugar to ¾ cup or 1 cup.
For the Rosemary-Orange Syrup
Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and cool for 15 minutes. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a glass container fitted with a lid.
Store refrigerated, in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
Not a fan of rosemary? Use thyme, fresh mint, or fresh basil in the simple syrup. For some kick add jalapeño slices to the simple syrup.
