How to Make Grilled Grapefruit Paloma Cocktail

Ever grilled your fruit before shaking it into a cocktail? No? Buckle up—because the Grilled Grapefruit Paloma Cocktail is about to change your happy hour forever. 

Warning, this isn't your average Paloma. It’s smoky, citrusy, tangy, and just the right amount of sweet. In fact, grilling fruit can intensify its natural sweetness and flavor by up to 30%. This twist on the classic Paloma takes less than 30 minutes to make and will quickly become your go-to drink for every gathering. Ready to shake things up? Let’s dive in!

How to Make Grilled Grapefruit Paloma Cocktail

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes 

Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

• • 2 limes
  • 1 red grapefruit, halved widthwise
  • 1/4 cup white sugar
  • 1/4 cup kosher salt
  • 1 cup ice cubes, or as needed for serving
  • 4 fluid ounces of tequila (choose your favorite brand)
  • 2 tablespoons simple syrup, or to taste
  • 4 fluid ounces of club soda

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your grill

Start by heating your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a gas grill, make sure to lightly oil the grate to prevent the fruit from sticking. A quick, light spray of oil will do the trick.

Step 2: Prepare your citrus

Cut both the limes and the grapefruit in half widthwise. This gives them enough surface area to grill and brings out the sweet and smoky flavors. Pour the white sugar into a bowl and dip the cut sides of the fruit into the sugar, coating them thoroughly.

Step 3: Grill the citrus

Using stainless steel tongs, carefully place the sugar-coated lime and grapefruit halves on the hot grill. Grill the fruit for about 2-3 minutes per side or until you see nice grill marks and the citrus becomes soft and slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning the sugar.

Step 4: Cool the fruit

Once your citrus is grilled, transfer it to a cooling rack and let it sit for a minute to cool down slightly. You want it to be warm, but not scalding hot when you juice it.

Step 5: Juice the fruit

Grab your lemon squeezer and use it to juice both the grilled limes and grapefruit into a small pitcher. The juicer will help you extract every drop of juice with minimal effort—no more straining your hands to get every last bit out!

Step 6: Mix the cocktail

Into the pitcher with the fresh citrus juice, add the tequila, simple syrup (you can adjust this depending on how sweet you like it), and the club soda. Stir gently to combine, making sure the flavors blend seamlessly together.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy

Fill two glasses with ice cubes and pour the cocktail mixture over the ice. For an extra touch, you can garnish with additional grilled lime or grapefruit slices. And that’s it! You’re ready to enjoy your perfectly balanced Grilled Grapefruit Paloma Cocktail. Cheers!

Tips and Variations

• Grill the fruit longer for a smokier flavor. If you want a more intense smoky flavor, feel free to grill the fruit for a few extra minutes. The longer it grills, the more charred and smoky the flavor becomes.
• Make it a frozen drink. For a frosty version, blend the cocktail ingredients with ice to create a frozen Paloma.
• Adjust the sweetness. If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the simple syrup or replace it with agave syrup for a more natural sweetener.
• Try different citrus. While grapefruit and lime are traditional for a Paloma, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like oranges or even tangerines to give your drink a unique twist.

Make Your Own Cocktail Today!

The Grilled Grapefruit Paloma Cocktail is the perfect drink for any occasion, offering a delightful fusion of flavors that tantalize the palate. The process begins with grilling fresh grapefruit halves, which enhances their natural sweetness and adds a subtle smoky char. When paired with high-quality tequila, the bright and zesty notes of the grapefruit truly shine. The addition of fizzy club soda brings a refreshing effervescence to the mix, balancing the richness of the spirit and the citrus. This cocktail is incredibly satisfying, making it an instant crowd favorite for gatherings, summer parties, or a relaxing evening at home!

Other Kitchen Products Used

To make your cocktail prep a breeze, Zulay Kitchen has just the tools you need to simplify the process:

• • Grill Brush: A clean grill is essential for getting the best flavors out of your grilled grapefruit and lime. Use the Grill Brush to scrub off any residue before placing your fruit on the grates.
  • Ice Cube Tray: Perfect for creating just the right amount of ice to keep your cocktail cool and refreshing. 
  • Cocktail Spoon: Once your ingredients are mixed and ready, use the cocktail spoon to stir everything together.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

Can I use a different type of fruit for this cocktail?

Yes! While grapefruit and lime are classic choices, you can experiment with other fruits like oranges, tangerines, or even lemons for a slightly different flavor profile. Just be sure to grill them the same way to bring out their natural sweetness and smoky flavor.

How do I make this cocktail non-alcoholic?

To make a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the tequila and increase the amount of club soda. You can add a little extra simple syrup or fresh fruit juice for sweetness, and you’ll still have a deliciously refreshing drink.

Can I use store-bought simple syrup instead of making my own?

Yes, store-bought simple syrup works perfectly fine in this recipe. However, making your own is simple and allows you to control the sweetness level. Just combine equal parts sugar and water, heat until dissolved, and cool before using.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover cocktails can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, the ice will dilute the drink, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you plan to make a large batch ahead of time, consider leaving out the ice and adding it just before serving.

Can I use a different type of alcohol for this cocktail?

While tequila is traditional for a Paloma, you can swap it for other spirits like rum or vodka. Each will provide a slightly different flavor but still complement the smoky citrus beautifully.

Is it okay to use bottled lime and grapefruit juice?

For the best flavor, we recommend using freshly grilled lime and grapefruit juice. However, if you’re in a pinch, bottled juice will work as a substitute. Just keep in mind that fresh fruit juice has a more vibrant and natural flavor.

How can I make this cocktail stronger?

If you prefer a stronger cocktail, simply add more tequila to taste. Just be careful not to overpower the other flavors. Start with an extra ounce or two and adjust from there.