Turkey 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 a regular Tuesday feel like a rooftop happy hour. The homemade cucumber simple syrup is the real star here — steeping fresh cucumber slices in warm sugar water pulls out a delicate, cooling flavor that you simply cannot get from a bottle. Fresh grapefruit juice and lime juice keep everything tart and lively, while the sparkling water finish gives it that satisfying, effervescent lift. The salted rim ties it all together with a savory edge that makes every sip taste more complex than the ingredient list suggests. Since this drink is built entirely from fresh produce, citrus, tequila, and pantry staples, there's nothing hidden to worry about — just clean, straightforward ingredients you can see and taste. It's equally at home at a summer cookout or a cozy dinner party, and the garnish of cucumber slices and grapefruit wedges makes it look genuinely impressive with almost zero extra effort.

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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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