Weekends mean cocktails and the only beverage I am reaching for this weekend is this refreshing, delicious Strawberry Paloma. Traditionally a Paloma is a tequila cocktail mixed with grapefruit soda, lime & salt. I have taken the traditional and kicked it up a few notches – because duh!

I love love love tequila – yes I know this particular spirit isn’t everyone’s favorite BUT my fellow tequila lovers will love this cocktail! When it comes to tequila their are three different varieties – blanco (silver), reposado & anjeo. There is a huge difference amongst the three! Blanco Tequila is not aged – meaning the agave has not had time to develop over time. This particular type of tequila is the best for mixed drinks like paloma’s & margarita’s! Reposado Tequila which is a little golden in color is aged (for at least two months) in oak barrels. The aging process allows for the tequila to develop flavor from the oak barrel. Anjeo Tequila is aged for at least a year – the flavors are very robust and is a dark golden color. Anjeo Tequila is great for sipping!

What You’ll Need:
Tequila – I am using Espolon Blanco Tequila
Grapefruit Sparkling Water – I am using Spindrift Grapefruit
1 Cup Strawberries
2 Limes

Instructions:
First, I cut up the strawberries, remove the stems and quarter the berry. Add the cut strawberries into a jar and squeeze the juice of 1 lime into the jar. Muddle the mixture until there is a good amount of liquid and the strawberries are mashed up. TIP: If you don’t have a traditional muddle you can use other kitchen essentials – I used a beater that goes to my hand mixture. Transfer the muddled strawberry and lime mixture to a shaker or large glass jar (make sure it has a lid). Fill the jar up half way with ice. Add three ounces of tequila – or more if you are trying to feel good! I added a little more lime juice for balance! Close the jar and shake shake shake! Add ice to your glasses and strain the liquid into each glass evenly. Top with Grapefruit Sparkling Water and add extra strawberries as garnish! Enjoy!