The Paloma has long been one of Mexico’s most beloved cocktails, celebrated for its crisp citrus flavor and refreshing simplicity. By adding the bright sweetness of mandarin oranges and the warming spice of fresh ginger, this classic drink becomes an elevated cocktail that’s perfect for every season.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering, relaxing on the patio, or celebrating with friends, the Mandarin Orange Ginger Paloma delivers vibrant flavor in every sip.

What Is a Paloma?

Traditionally made with tequila, grapefruit soda, lime juice, and a salted rim, the Paloma is known for its refreshing balance of tart, sweet, and slightly bitter citrus flavors. It’s lighter than a margarita and incredibly easy to enjoy.

This modern variation layers in fresh mandarin orange juice and ginger, creating a cocktail that’s both bright and sophisticated.

Why Mandarin Orange and Ginger?

Mandarin oranges offer a naturally sweet, juicy citrus flavor that’s smoother and less acidic than traditional oranges. Their vibrant notes pair beautifully with the earthy character of tequila while adding a fresh burst of sunshine.

Fresh ginger contributes a gentle warmth and aromatic spice that balances the sweetness and enhances the cocktail’s complexity. Together, these ingredients transform a familiar favorite into something memorable.

What will you need?

• mandarin orange slices
• knob of ginger
• salt
• mezcal
• agave syrup
• lime juice
• sugar for rim
• Grapefruit soda, like Fresca or Squirt

How to make it

Rim a glass with agave and sugar, and add ice.

Add the mandarin orange slices and ginger to a shaker cup and muddle to extract as much juice as you can. Add in salt, lime juice, mezcal, agave, and ice. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds.

Double strain into the iced glass and top with grape fruit soda. Garnish with a mandarin orange slice.

Mandarin Orange Ginger Paloma

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Recipe by Zachary Rodriguez Course: DrinksCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 mandarin orange, peeled and segmented

• 1/2 inch knob of peeled ginger

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 oz agave syrup

• 2 oz mezcal

• 2 oz lime juice

• grape fruit soda, like Fresca or Squirt

• sugar for rimming glass

Directions

• Rim a glass with agave and sugar, and add ice.
• Add the mandarin orange slices and ginger to a shaker cup and muddle to extract as much juice as you can. Add in salt, lime juice, mezcal, agave, and ice. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds.
• Double strain into the iced glass and top with grape fruit soda. Garnish with a mandarin orange slice.