Chamomile + Pink Grapefruit Paloma

Cinco de Mayo and margaritas (not to mention guacamole, limes, chips …) are a classic, festive pair. So classic, in fact, we thought we’d change it up today to bring you an easy twist on another south-of-the-border favorite, the paloma! (Don’t worry, the guac and chips are still very much welcomed.)

Similar to the margarita, the paloma is a perfectly delicious, tequila-based drink. This recipe features homemade grapefruit soda, springified with a touch of chamomile and orange zest. It’s truly a special treat, regardless of what the calendar says. Read on below as we walk you through each sip-worthy step.

Chamomile + Pink Grapefruit Paloma

For each cocktail
Ingredients:
1/2 Ruby Red grapefruit, juiced
2 tablespoons Chamomile Simple Syrup (recipe below)
2 ounces tequila (Gran Centenario is delicious and the bottle is pretty)
Splash of seltzer water
1/2 teaspoon fresh orange zest
Handful of Ice
Rose Salt or kosher salt
Fresh, organic chamomile flowers for garnishing

Directions:
Rim each glass with salt (use rose salt if you are feeling extra fancy). Place ice, grapefruit juice, seltzer water and tequila in glass. Stir. Garnish with fresh chamomile flowers or 1/4 slice of grapefruit.

Chamomile Simple Syrup

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon organic, dried chamomile flowers (if you can’t find dried whole flowers, you can use a bag of chamomile tea)
1 cup organic sugar
1 cup filtered water

Directions:
Place all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat. Allow to simmer until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Strain through a fine mesh sieve.

If you are using a bag of chamomile tea rather than the whole flowers, simply make the simple syrup without the flowers. Then, once the sugar has dissolved, remove from heat and add the teabag. Allow to steep for about 10 minutes. Discard teabag.

Place in a squeaky-clean, airtight container and store in the fridge for up to two weeks.

How are you celebrating 5/5?

Recipe + Photos via Cassie Winslow