Name: Grapefruit Mint Margarita aka "Paloma" with Mint
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 drinks
Ingredients: 6 oz tequila (.....white or gold are both fine.); 3 oz triple sec; 1 oz fresh lime juice; 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice; 6 mint leaves (.....4 mint leaves for muddling plus a few more for garnish)

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Are you looking to change up your margarita game? This grapefruit mint margarita will definitely impress. No mixes with nasty preservatives – just simple, freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, a few more ingredients and a wee bit of time is all it takes to get this refreshing drink into hand.

Another Margarita Drink?

Yes! I know you’ve probably tried a thousand margarita variations, but trust me on this one – the flavors blend and compliment one another superbly. It’s as though mint, tequila, and grapefruit are just meant to be. And grapefruit is experiencing quite the impressive come back. With the rise in popularity of La Croix’s pamplemousse, and the increasing supply of Paloma and Greyhound recipes (such as this one from my friend Ben’s blog) gracing the internet, it’s safe to say that this ruby-fleshed beauty has secured its spot on the mixology scene.

So what exactly is a Paloma? It’s typically a grapefruit seltzer and tequila based drink with lime. This one’s a little different though as I’ve added my own twist. Going the extra 3 minutes – really, just need some fresh grapefruit juice, will make all the difference. The tartness of the fresh squeezed grapefruit juice can’t be equaled by a grapefruit seltzer. The brightness of the lime and the salt on the rim complete this tasty grapefruit mint margarita.

This drink can definitely stand on its own, but if you’re looking to pair it with food, Mexican cuisine is absolutely the way to go. I’m thinking spicy barbacoa tacos, or even some Mexican street corn. The freshness of this drink would perfectly compliment the deep, complex flavors of a mole poblano if that is on your menu. I always enjoy pairing cocktails with the food that is being prepared, it just adds to the wow factor.

Tequila and triple sec used in the grapefruit mint margarita with mint.

Tequila blanco and triple sec – Espolon is one of my new faves.

Fresh grapefruit, fresh lime juice, and fresh mint used in the grapefruit mint margarita.

Fresh grapefruit, lime, and mint.

Ingredients for the Grapefruit Mint Margarita:

Simple fresh ingredients are all that’s needed to make this quick cocktail. One grapefruit, 3 limes, tequila, triple sec, fresh mint, kosher salt, and ice complete the list. The recipe I will provide makes 2 drinks so plan accordingly if you are having a dinner party.

Squeezing the fresh grapefruit juice for the grapefruit mint margarita

Squeezing the grapefruit juice.

Process:

Start by muddling some mint. What does that mean, you ask? It means that 4 mint leaves will be placed in a cocktail shaker and smashed to release the mint’s flavor and aroma. Use the back of a wooden spoon if you don’t have one of these.

Next add the fresh grapefruit juice, tequila, triple sec, and ice to the shaker with the muddled mint. If you want a salted glass, now is the time to do it, otherwise continue on. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds, strain and pour over fresh ice. Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves. You’re finished and ready for the first sip. Cheers my friends, and please drink responsibly.

Before you make this amazing Grapefruit Mint Margarita, follow me on Instagram and sign up to get new great recipes and ideas by email. Maybe you’re after something sweeter. Check out this delicious raspberry cocktail.