Caffeine Free Classic Cucumber Paloma
Bright, citrusy, and refreshingly cool, this cucumber paloma is the kind of drink that makes any occasion feel a little more special. The homemade cucumber simple syrup is the real star here ā steeping fresh cucumber slices in warm sugar water pulls out a subtle, grassy sweetness that you simply can't get from a bottle. Combined with freshly squeezed grapefruit and lime juice, the result is tart, fragrant, and beautifully balanced. Tequila and sparkling water round everything out, giving you that classic paloma fizz without any coffee, tea, or energy-boosting additives to worry about. The salted rim adds a savory edge that makes every sip taste even more vibrant. It's a genuinely elegant cocktail that comes together with straightforward technique ā shake, strain, top, and garnish ā so it's just as doable for a Tuesday evening as it is for a weekend gathering.
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Learn more āIngredients
2 servings
For the cucumber simple syrup
- Ā½ cup water
- Ā½ cup granulated sugar
- Ā½ medium cucumber, thinly sliced
For the salted rim
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 lime wedge, for rimming
For the cocktail
- 3 oz blanco tequila
- Ā¾ cup fresh grapefruit juice (from about 1 large grapefruit)
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 3 tbsp cucumber simple syrup (from above)
- 1 cup sparkling water
- ice cubes
For serving
- 2ā3 thin cucumber slices, for garnish (optional)
- 2 grapefruit wedges, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Make the cucumber simple syrup: combine the water, sugar, and sliced cucumber in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved, about 3ā4 minutes. Remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes, until the syrup is lightly fragrant and pale green.
- 2
Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer into a small jar or bowl, pressing the cucumber slices gently to extract their liquid. Discard the solids. Let the syrup cool to room temperature before using.
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