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:
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?!