I don’t know about you but I find Fresca (the diet soda) wildly refreshing! It is THE ULTIMATE of no carb/no cal diet sodas and Fresca was actually around long before any of the diet coke’s of today were in the game. That said, its taste is a bit of an acquired one – very light, almost airy paired with an effervescent grapefruit drawl, Fresca is definitely the only diet soda with a memorable, everlasting citrusy zing. Personally, straight up vodka does the trick when it comes to a mixer for Fresca, but for those among who who would like to try the Fresca trend but don’t find the ‘vodka’ recipe too appealing, read on.
Sparkling Brûléed Grapefruit Palomas:
Brûléed grapefruit is OBVIOUSLY what makes this paloma cocktail something special, I mean who the F brûlées anything nonetheless grapefruit?!
Don’t even ask me to pronounce that. Apparently, yes you can ‘brûlée’ something other than creme, take grapefruit for example. Had the Elf on the Shelf not gotten me a miniature butane torch (to make creme brûlée specifically- I shit you not) I too would have clicked right on out of this article but stick with me. Brûléed grapefruit is OBVIOUSLY what makes this paloma cocktail something special, I mean who the F brûlées anything nonetheless grapefruit?! What is in a Paloma, you may be wondering. Tequila, lime juice, a pinch of sugar, and grapefruit soda/club soda or, as I clearly love, Fresca! Not only does it add a toasted sugary note (duh) but it is perfectly offset by the acidity of the grapefruit found in Fresca! This drink is totally brunch worthy. Personally, I would reserve it for special occasions as you want to be mindful of stealing the spotlight with a drink like this – it is bound to take the lead at the bar of any party. In fact, I don’t think there is possibly any other drink on the planet that is as over the top as using a literal torch. I am lmao. Well, in conclusion: oh, shocking! That layer of warm, melted, sugar not only leaves this cocktail tasting delicious but it looks beautiful too!
Make a Paloma:
To start, you will run a wedge of lime or grapefruit around two high ball glasses and dip in kosher salt. Optional but necessary for the aesthetic.
Next, divide the sugar evenly (just throw some sugar around) and make sure it hits the rim the glasses, add the lime juice, and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
Fill the glasses to the top with ice and add a shot (or a few) of tequila to each glass, topped off with grapefruit juice/club soda/Fresca.
Some like it hot….!
Add one simple ingredient and things, especially this Paloma, heat up REAL FAST!!! Jalapeños.
After all…sugar and spice make all things nice….right?!