Tree Nut Free Classic Cucumber Paloma

Total time30 min

Prep time10 min

Cook time5 min

4.6

(27)

Bright, citrusy, and just a little unexpected, this cucumber paloma is the kind of cocktail that makes people ask for the recipe before they've even finished their glass. The homemade cucumber simple syrup is the real star here — sliced cucumber steeps in warm sugar syrup until it turns lightly fragrant and pale green, adding a cool, garden-fresh note that plays beautifully against the tartness of fresh grapefruit and lime. Everything in this drink is made from scratch with clean, straightforward ingredients, so there's zero guesswork about what's actually in your glass. The salted rim adds a savory contrast that pulls the whole thing together, and a top of sparkling water keeps it effervescent and refreshing right down to the last sip. It's a genuinely impressive cocktail that comes together with simple technique — shake, strain, and pour — no fancy bar equipment required. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or just treating yourself on a Tuesday, this one delivers serious flavor with very little fuss.

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Ingredients

2 servings

For the cucumber simple syrup

½ cup water
½ cup granulated sugar
½ medium cucumber, thinly sliced

For the salted rim

1 tbsp kosher salt
1 lime wedge, for rimming

For the cocktail

3 oz blanco tequila
¾ 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

2–3 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 3–4 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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