Pescatarian Herbal Grapefruit Paloma
Bright, citrusy, and just a little unexpected, this herbal paloma is the kind of cocktail that makes a regular evening feel like a proper occasion. Fresh grapefruit juice and lime bring serious zing, while a homemade rosemary-thyme simple syrup adds a savory, aromatic depth that store-bought mixes simply can't replicate. The process of steeping the herbs in warm sugar syrup is genuinely satisfying — your kitchen will smell incredible before you've even touched the shaker. A salted rim ties everything together, giving each sip that perfect sweet-salty-tart balance. Since this drink is built entirely from fruit, herbs, tequila, and sparkling water, it fits naturally into a pescatarian lifestyle without any substitutions or workarounds needed. Shake it up for a dinner party starter, a weekend brunch sipper, or honestly just a Tuesday night treat — it's that easy and that good.
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Learn more →Ingredients
2 servings
For the herbal simple syrup
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
For the salted rim
- 2 tsp coarse kosher salt
- 1 grapefruit wedge, for rimming
For the cocktail
- 3 oz blanco tequila
- ¾ cup fresh grapefruit juice (from about 1 large grapefruit)
- 1 oz fresh lime juice (from about 1 lime)
- 1 oz herbal simple syrup (from above)
- 1 cup sparkling water, chilled
- 1 cup ice cubes
For serving
- 2 small sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme, for garnish (optional)
- 2 thin grapefruit slices, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the sugar, water, rosemary sprigs, and thyme sprigs in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from the heat and let the herbs steep for 10 minutes, until the syrup is fragrant and faintly golden.
- 2
Pour the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer into a small jar or bowl, pressing the herbs lightly to extract their oils. Discard the spent herbs. Let the syrup cool to room temperature before using.
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