Skinny Paloma Recipe: The Best Light & Refreshing Tequila Cocktail

Introduction

Skinny Paloma recipe—it’s a drink I came to love one sunny afternoon in Asheville, when I was craving something light, fresh, and not overloaded with sugar. As a mom, home chef, and someone who grew up cooking in my grandmother’s tiny New York kitchen, I’ve always believed that real flavor doesn’t need fuss—or calories.

This refreshing twist on the classic grapefruit and tequila cocktail fits perfectly into the way I like to cook and live: simple, honest, and full of joy. With fresh juice, a splash of sparkling water, and quality tequila, this skinny Paloma recipe is my go-to for everything from backyard hangs to brunch with friends.

Ready to mix one up? Let’s dive in.

Check out our High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe for the perfect pairing.

Skinny Paloma Recipe

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 2 cocktail 1x

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Description

This skinny Paloma recipe is a light, zesty cocktail made with fresh grapefruit juice, lime, soda water, and silver tequila. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and low in calories—perfect for warm weather sipping.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 oz blanco tequila
• 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
• 2–3 oz sparkling water
• Optional: sweetener (stevia, agave, monk fruit)
• Optional: salt for rim, grapefruit wedge or mint for garnish

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Instructions

1. Salt the rim of your glass if desired.
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. Pour in tequila, grapefruit juice, and lime juice.
4. Add sweetener if using.
5. Top with sparkling water.
6. Garnish and enjoy!

Notes

• Use fresh juice for the best flavor.
• Adjust tequila amount to reduce calories further.
• Great with citrus salad or grilled shrimp.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Drinks
• Method: Stirred
• Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cocktail
• Calories: 145kcal
• Sugar: 4
• Sodium: 5
• Carbohydrates: 6g

What Is a Skinny Paloma?

A Fresh Take on the Classic Paloma

At its heart, the Paloma is one of Mexico’s most loved cocktails—a mix of tequila, grapefruit soda, lime juice, and salt. It’s fizzy, tart, and incredibly refreshing. But most store-bought versions are packed with sugar, and if you’re watching your calories or carbs, that sweet soda can turn a light drink into a heavy one fast.

That’s where the skinny Paloma recipe comes in. This lighter version ditches sugary soda in favor of fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice and sparkling water or zero-calorie soda alternatives. The flavor stays bright and citrusy, but the calorie count gets a major trim. It’s the perfect cocktail when you want something clean and crisp—without all the sugar.

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening on the porch or hosting a laid-back dinner party, this healthy take on the classic is a crowd-pleaser. You still get the zesty grapefruit and smooth tequila, but with a modern twist that fits right into a health-conscious lifestyle.

How the Skinny Version Cuts Calories & Sugar

The classic Paloma often has over 200 calories per glass thanks to sweet grapefruit soda. A skinny Paloma recipe uses fresh ingredients and sugar-free alternatives to slash those numbers without compromising flavor. Plus, it’s a drink you can enjoy guilt-free—even if you’re tracking macros, cutting carbs, or following a keto-friendly plan.

Here’s a quick comparison:

That’s why I love this skinny Paloma recipe—it gives you that same refreshing grapefruit punch with half the calories. And if you’re looking for something equally light but with a twist, check out our Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake Tacos—yes, they’re as fun as they sound!

Ingredients Needed for the Perfect Skinny Paloma

Essential Base Spirits & Mixers

The foundation of any skinny Paloma recipe is clean, simple, and naturally refreshing. Forget artificial mixers or added sugars—this cocktail is all about balance and real ingredients.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Tequila (Blanco) – Go for 100% agave blanco tequila. It’s light and smooth, perfect for letting the citrus flavors shine.
• Fresh Grapefruit Juice – Nothing beats freshly squeezed juice for a bright, natural flavor.
• Sparkling Water or Zero-Calorie Grapefruit Soda – Use brands like Topo Chico, LaCroix, or Spindrift. These keep your skinny Paloma crisp without extra sugar.
• Fresh Lime Juice – Adds brightness and balances the bitterness of grapefruit.
• Salt for the Rim (optional) – Coarse sea salt gives that classic, savory finish.

Whether you’re prepping for brunch or just a sunny afternoon sip, these basics are all you need to get started. Don’t forget to browse our High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe—it’s a refreshing partner to this cocktail.

Low-Calorie and Sugar-Free Substitutes That Still Taste Amazing

The beauty of a skinny Paloma recipe lies in its flexibility. It’s easy to adapt with sugar-free, natural ingredients that don’t compromise on taste.

Here are my favorite smart swaps:

Want to boost flavor without adding sugar? Try a grapefruit-flavored sparkling water or add grapefruit bitters for complexity. You’ll still stay on track with your health goals while enjoying a delicious drink.

Another reason I love this skinny Paloma recipe is that it’s customizable without getting complicated. Whether you’re keto-conscious, cutting back on sugar, or just craving something clean, it’s an easy win.

Pair it with our Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce for a light yet satisfying dinner combo that doesn’t undo your healthy habits.

This modern spin on a tequila classic delivers bold flavor in a lighter glass. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll reach for again and again—trust me, it never disappoints.

How to Make a Skinny Paloma Recipe at Home

Simple Step-by-Step Instructions

Making a skinny Paloma recipe at home is quick, clean, and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a refreshing cocktail that feels light but still delivers that classic citrusy kick.

What you’ll need (for one glass):

• 1.5 oz blanco tequila
• 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 0.5 oz lime juice
• 2–3 oz sparkling water (grapefruit-flavored or plain)
• Optional: sweetener (stevia, monk fruit, or agave)
• Ice
• Salt (for rim)
• Grapefruit wedge for garnish

How to make it:

1. Salt the rim of your glass (optional).
2. Add tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and sweetener to a shaker or glass.
3. Stir well, then pour over ice.
4. Top with sparkling water and garnish.

That’s it. Your skinny Paloma recipe is ready to enjoy—refreshing, light, and easy to love.

Want a fun, fruity snack to pair with your drink? Don’t miss our Berry Boost Protein Smoothie for a healthy combo.

Flavor Tips & Serving Ideas

• Use chilled ingredients to keep it crisp without watering it down.
• Add herbs like mint or rosemary for a little flair.
• Serve in a tall glass with crushed ice for that classic cocktail feel.

Pair it with something just as clean and comforting, like our Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad. It’s a crowd-pleaser.

Calories and Nutrition Breakdown

How Many Calories in a Skinny Paloma?

One of the biggest perks of the skinny Paloma recipe is that it’s naturally low in calories—especially when compared to the traditional version made with grapefruit soda or sweetened limeade. On average, a regular Paloma can hit 225 to 260 calories per glass. The skinny version? Often under 140 calories, depending on how you mix it.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

By skipping sugary soda and going for fresh citrus and soda water, you cut the sugar content dramatically—without losing that tart, tangy grapefruit flavor. That’s why I love serving this skinny Paloma recipe at gatherings—it’s a light sipper that doesn’t feel like a compromise.

Comparison: Regular Paloma vs. Skinny Paloma

Trying to keep things light after dinner? You’ll love our High Protein Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse as a low-sugar, high-flavor dessert to go with your drink.

The skinny Paloma recipe is ideal for anyone tracking macros, watching their sugar intake, or simply wanting a cleaner cocktail. You get all the taste—none of the guilt.

Tequila Mixers with No Sugar

Top Sugar-Free Mixers That Pair Well with Tequila

One of the easiest ways to keep your skinny Paloma recipe light is by using mixers with no added sugar. Tequila works well with a variety of naturally flavored sparkling waters and soda alternatives that keep things refreshing without the calories.

Great sugar-free mixers:

• Plain or flavored sparkling water (like LaCroix or Spindrift)
• Club soda for crisp, clean fizz
• Unsweetened coconut water for a tropical twist
• Lime or grapefruit soda water with no sweeteners

Always check the label—some “flavored” options sneak in hidden sugars. When in doubt, choose plain bubbly water and let your grapefruit juice or lime do the talking.

Pair your drink with our High Protein Chicken Avocado Salad for a clean, satisfying combo.

Sparkling Waters That Add Real Flavor

For bold taste without sugar:

• Spindrift – Made with real fruit
• Waterloo – Strong flavors, great with citrus
• Topo Chico – Extra fizzy and bartender-approved

These options lift the flavor of your skinny Paloma recipe without compromising your goals. Add herbs like mint or basil for an easy upgrade.

Looking for a fresh dinner idea? Try our Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce—it’s a savory match for this cocktail.

Variations of Skinny Paloma Recipes

Skinny Spicy Paloma (With Jalapeño)

If you like your cocktails with a little kick, this variation is for you. The spicy version of the skinny Paloma recipe keeps the calorie count low but adds bold flavor.

How to make it spicy:

• Muddle 1–2 slices of fresh jalapeño in the glass before adding your tequila and grapefruit juice.
• Use the same base recipe and top with lime sparkling water.
• Rim your glass with Tajín or chili-salt for extra heat.

This version balances sweet, tart, and spicy in one unforgettable sip. Want to cool it down after? Try our Berry Boost Protein Smoothie—it’s fruity, creamy, and calming.

Grapefruit-Free Options for Citrus Allergies

For folks who love the idea of a Paloma but can’t do grapefruit, no worries—you’ve still got delicious options.

Substitutes for grapefruit juice:

• Blood orange juice – Sweet and slightly bitter
• Pink lemon juice – Milder but still citrusy
• Pomelo juice – A natural grapefruit cousin, but gentler in flavor

Use these in the same proportions as grapefruit juice in your skinny Paloma recipe, and you’ll get a slightly different—but equally refreshing—result.

Don’t miss our Sourdough Breakfast Toast to pair with these softer citrus notes. It’s a cozy, healthy addition to brunch.

Best Occasions to Serve a Skinny Paloma

Perfect Party, Brunch & BBQ Pairings

One of the reasons I love the skinny Paloma recipe so much? It’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting Sunday brunch, a casual BBQ, or a quiet evening on the porch, this cocktail fits the moment without weighing anyone down.

Best times to serve a skinny Paloma:

• Brunch – Light, citrusy, and pairs well with eggs, fruit, or avocado toast
• Summer BBQs – Refreshing enough to balance spicy grilled meats or tacos
• Girls’ Night In – Mix a batch and serve in mason jars for a fun, casual vibe
• Afternoon Pool Parties – Low sugar = no crash, even in the sun

If you’re serving a mixed crowd, offer a make-your-own skinny Paloma bar with tequila, mixers, citrus slices, and different flavored sparkling waters. It’s interactive, easy, and fun!

Looking for something light to serve alongside? Try our Cottage Cheese Egg Bake—it’s a satisfying, protein-rich bite that won’t upstage the drink.

Why It’s a Top Summer Go-To Cocktail

Hot weather calls for hydration—and heavy, sugary cocktails can leave you feeling sluggish. That’s why the skinny Paloma recipe shines during warm-weather months. It’s fizzy, citrusy, and feels almost like a sparkling grapefruit soda—but without all the sugar.

Add a splash of soda, a squeeze of lime, and you’ve got something that’s both indulgent and light enough to enjoy more than one.

Want a crowd-pleasing side for your summer gathering? Don’t miss our Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad. It’s creamy, tangy, and perfect picnic fare.

Expert Tips for Serving & Presentation

Choosing the Right Glassware & Garnishes

Even the simplest skinny Paloma recipe can feel elevated with a few presentation tweaks. Here’s how to make your drink look as good as it tastes.

Glassware Options:

• Highball glass – Tall and classic, perfect for showing off the bubbles
• Mason jar – Great for casual brunches or summer gatherings
• Stemless wine glass – A bit more modern, still easy and fun

Garnish Ideas:

• Fresh grapefruit wedge or lime wheel
• A sprig of mint or rosemary
• Tajín or chili-salt rim for a spicy pop
• Dehydrated citrus slices for a rustic vibe

A quick garnish makes your skinny Paloma recipe feel special, whether it’s just you on the porch or friends over for a laid-back meal.

Need a refreshing protein-rich recipe to serve with it? Try our High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe—it’s fresh, filling, and perfect with a citrus cocktail.

Batch Preparation for a Crowd

Planning a get-together? You can absolutely batch this cocktail.

Here’s how to prep a pitcher (serves 6):

• 9 oz tequila
• 12 oz fresh grapefruit juice
• 3 oz lime juice
• Sparkling water (add just before serving for fizz)
• Optional: 6–10 drops of stevia or monk fruit sweetener

Mix everything except the sparkling water and refrigerate. When ready to serve, pour over ice and top with soda water for that crisp finish.

Want something sweet but smart to follow it up? Our High Protein Cottage Cheese Chocolate Mousse delivers all the dessert vibes without a sugar overload.

Storage & Make-Ahead Options

Can You Store a Skinny Paloma?

Yes, you can prep a skinny Paloma recipe ahead of time—but hold off on the sparkling water until serving. That keeps the bubbles crisp and refreshing.

Make-ahead base mix:

• Tequila
• Grapefruit juice
• Lime juice
• Optional sweetener

Mix those, store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and just add sparkling water when ready to serve.

Want a make-ahead meal to match? Try our Cottage Cheese Egg Bake—it’s easy to reheat and satisfying.

Batching the Recipe for a Crowd

Hosting? You can easily batch the skinny Paloma recipe for guests.

Pitcher Prep (serves 6–8):

• 12 oz tequila
• 16 oz grapefruit juice
• 4 oz lime juice
• Sweeten to taste

Chill the mix, then top individual glasses with sparkling water as you serve. Add fresh citrus slices for a pretty finish.

Pair it with our Deviled Egg Macaroni Salad for a cool, picnic-ready combo.

Conclusion: Why the Skinny Paloma Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Repertoire

The skinny Paloma recipe is everything I love in a cocktail—fresh, unfussy, and full of flavor without the baggage of sugar or heavy mixers. Whether you’re sipping solo on the porch or mixing a pitcher for brunch with friends, it delivers that perfect balance of bright citrus, smooth tequila, and sparkling refreshment.

As someone who values simple ingredients and honest flavors, this drink fits beautifully into everyday life. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and pairs with almost anything on the table—from summer salads to protein-packed bites.

So next time you’re reaching for a light, low-calorie drink that still feels like a treat, let the skinny Paloma recipe be your go-to. Trust me—it’s earned a permanent spot in my recipe box.

Looking for more healthy sips and family-friendly flavors? Don’t miss our full Recipes Collection for more inspiration from my kitchen to yours.

FAQs About the Skinny Paloma Recipe