This post contains affiliate links.
There’s nothing better than a cold, refreshing drink on a hot evening, and lately, my favorite place to sip one is my front porch. We had someone come pour concrete out front last month so we could set up chairs, and honestly? I’m obsessed. It’s become my go-to spot to slow down at the end of the day.
This paloma mocktail is what I’ve made the last few Fridays and is my favorite non-alcoholic version of the classic cocktail. Grapefruit has this bright, bitter bite that feels a little unexpected, and that’s exactly why I love it. It wakes everything up. I’m such a fan of that bitterness that half the time I skip the maple syrup altogether and let the grapefruit do its thing. But if you like a little balance, a teaspoon of maple rounds it out perfectly.
What really won me over, though, was how easy this recipe is. I usually have everything I need sitting in my fridge, which means I can make it whenever the craving strikes. I don’t have to run to the store or buy anything fancy.
If you’re building a summer drink menu, try my cherry limeade, strawberry lemonade, and non-alcoholic sangria.
Recipe Tips
- When peeling the grapefruit, remove as much as the pith as possible. The less fiber you have in the blended grapefruit, the easier it will be to use the sieve.
- Don’t strain the blended grapefruit. Pour it straight into a glass with sparkling water and toast to a fiber boost!
- Too tart? Add an extra drizzle of maple syrup or coat the rim with sugar. This will overpower the bitterness and create as sweet treat.
-
Add grapefruit, maple syrup and lime to a blender and blend on high speed until smooth.
-
Divide into two glasses, using a sieve to catch the pulp.
-
Add ice and sparkling water to each glass.
- Use fresh citrus: Fresh grapefruit and lime will give you the brightest, most refreshing flavor.Â
- Adjust the sweetness: Grapefruits can vary from sweet to tart. Start with less maple syrup, then taste and add more if needed before serving.
- Add the sparkling water last: For the best fizz, stir in the sparkling water just before serving. This helps keep the mocktail light and bubbly.
- Serve it ice cold: This drink is at its absolute best when served over plenty of ice. Chill your ingredients beforehand for an extra-refreshing sip.
- Garnish tip: Rub a grapefruit wedge around the rim of the glass, then dip it into a plate of fresh lime zest before serving.
- Storage: Store the citrus mixture (without the sparkling water) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the sparkling water just before serving.
Calories: 68 kcal | Carbohydrates: 18 g | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 0.2 g | Saturated Fat: 0.03 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.03 g | Sodium: 28 mg | Potassium: 200 mg | Fiber: 3 g | Sugar: 11 g | Vitamin A: 1480 IU | Vitamin C: 45 mg | Calcium: 45 mg | Iron: 0.2 mg
Common Questions
A paloma mocktail has a refreshing balance of sweet, tart, and bubbly flavors. The grapefruit provides a slightly tangy citrus flavor, while lime adds brightness and the sparkling water creates a crisp finish.
Yes. While grapefruit is the signature ingredient, you can use fresh orange or pomelo. The flavor will be different, but still refreshing.
If your grapefruit is particularly tart or bitter, add a little more maple syrup and make sure you’re using ripe, fresh grapefruit. A pinch of sea salt can also help balance the flavors.