Virgin Paloma
Grapefruit juice, lime, and agave syrup — the non-alcoholic Paloma, based on what many consider Mexico's most popular national drink ahead of the Margarita.
- 4 ozgrapefruit soda
- 1 ozfresh lime juice(freshly squeezed)
- ½ ozagave nectar
- 1 pinchsalt
- 1Rim a highball glass with salt if desired.
- 2Fill the glass with cubed ice.
- 3Add lime juice and agave and salt.
- 4Top with grapefruit soda.
- 5Stir gently to combine.
- 6Garnish with a grapefruit wedge.
Share this page
The Virgin Paloma removes the tequila from the beloved Mexican cocktail that many consider Mexico's most popular national drink — more consumed domestically than the Margarita despite the Margarita's greater international fame. The Paloma, whose name means dove in Spanish, combines tequila with grapefruit soda or fresh grapefruit juice and lime, typically using Jarritos toronja (grapefruit) soda as the traditional mixer in Mexican bars. The non-alcoholic version replaces the tequila with additional grapefruit juice or a light agave syrup, maintaining the same refreshing grapefruit-lime balance that defines the original. The Virgin Paloma benefits from grapefruit's natural complexity — the interplay of bitterness, sweetness, and acidity — which provides enough flavor interest to stand independently without the tequila's agave backbone.
🛒 Tools for This Recipe
Everything you need to make a great Virgin Paloma at home.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. These links help support Jigger & Joy at no extra cost to you. Learn more
🍸 Drink Responsibly: Alcoholic beverages should only be consumed by adults of legal drinking age. Never drink and drive. If you choose to drink, please do so responsibly. Excessive alcohol consumption can be harmful to your health. If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.
⚠️ Allergen Notice: Allergen information provided on this site is for general guidance only and may not be complete or accurate. Ingredients and formulations can vary by brand and may change without notice. If you have food allergies or sensitivities, always verify ingredients directly with manufacturers and check all product labels before consumption. Consult a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary concerns. Jigger & Joy is not liable for any adverse reactions resulting from the consumption of recipes on this site.
Disclaimer: Recipes are provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Nutritional information, ABV estimates, and other data are approximations and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods used.