Mezcal Paloma with Smoked Salt – Smoky, Tangy, and Built to Rule Taco Night
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Mezcal Paloma with Smoked Salt – Smoky, Tangy, and Built to Rule Taco Night
The Paloma is already a top-tier cocktail. Crisp grapefruit soda, zesty lime, and a whisper of tequila combine into a drink that’s refreshing, balanced, and impossible to put down. But what happens when you swap out that tequila for mezcal and hit the rim with smoked salt? Magic, that’s what. The result is a sultry, smoky sipper that elevates your taco night from good to unforgettable.
Mezcal, tequila’s bolder cousin, brings complexity and depth. When paired with the bracing acidity of citrus and the effervescent zing of grapefruit soda, it creates a cocktail that’s both grounding and invigorating. The smoked salt rim adds just the right amount of earthy contrast — it’s a game-changer, especially when served alongside spicy barbacoa tacos or carne asada nachos.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, celebrating Cinco de Mayo, or just ready to graduate from the margarita, this Mezcal Paloma is your ticket to flavor town. Let’s shake it up.
Ingredients
- 2 oz mezcal (Espadín recommended)
- 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice (or quality grapefruit soda)
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.25 oz agave syrup (or to taste)
- 2 oz club soda (if using fresh juice)
- Smoked sea salt, for rimming
- Grapefruit wedge, for garnish
- Ice
Mezcal Paloma with Smoked Salt – Smoky, Tangy, and Built to Rule Taco Night
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, celebrating Cinco de Mayo, or just ready to graduate from the margarita, this Mezcal Paloma is your ticket to flavor town. Let’s shake it up.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: min | Total: 5 min
Servings: 1 cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz mezcal (Espadín recommended)
- 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice (or quality grapefruit soda)
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.25 oz agave syrup (or to taste)
- 2 oz club soda (if using fresh juice)
- Smoked sea salt, for rimming
- Grapefruit wedge, for garnish
- Ice
Instructions
- Run a lime wedge around the rim of a highball or rocks glass. Dip the edge in smoked salt to coat.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- In a shaker, combine mezcal, fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, and agave syrup. Add ice and shake briefly to chill.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
- Top with club soda if using fresh juice (skip if using soda). Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a wedge of grapefruit and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Fat:
- Carbs: 10g
- Protein:
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How to Make a Mezcal Paloma
Expert Tips
- Use a quality mezcal for optimal flavor — Espadín is a solid and accessible choice.
- Smoked Maldon salt or hickory salt works beautifully for rimming.
- If you’re using grapefruit soda like Jarritos or Fever-Tree, skip the agave syrup unless you like it extra sweet.
- For a stronger smoke hit, rinse the glass with mezcal before building the drink.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Paloma: Muddle a slice of jalapeño in the shaker for a spicy kick.
- Frozen Paloma: Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy-style cocktail.
- Herbal Twist: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme to the shaker and double-strain.
- Zero-Proof: Use a non-alcoholic mezcal substitute and grapefruit soda for a mocktail version.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between tequila and mezcal?
Can I batch this for a party?
What food pairs best with a Mezcal Paloma?
Nutritional Info (approximate)
Per serving:
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 8g
- Alcohol: 14g
- Sodium: 120mg
