Sipping straight mezcal on a Tuesday with my boss was one of my more unconventional workdays. But, as is true for many shifts in routine, it sparked some creativity and inspired the makings of this spicy mezcal Paloma recipe.
On our recent team trip to Oaxaca, we spent three days soaking up the city’s vibrant art, food, and culture. Of course, a mezcal tasting was warranted given that Oaxaca is home to this smoky spirit. The experience left me itching to infuse more mezcal moments into my cocktails this summer. Enter: this spicy mezcal Paloma recipe.
I’ll start by confessing that this recipe is breaking a cardinal rule of mezcal drinking. We learned that mezcal is meant to be sipped straight instead of mixed into cocktails. But if you’re like me, you might need a little fresh juice and soda to help you ease into your mezcal journey. Plus, it’s hard to turn down a classic, thirst-quenching Paloma. So let’s get to it.
Why You’ll Love This Mezcal Paloma Recipe
A traditional Mexican Paloma is made with tequila blanco and grapefruit soda. This version is a riff on the classic, using a mix of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, lime juice, and sparkling water.
Mezcal has been produced in Mexico for centuries, and believe it or not, tequila is actually a type of mezcal. Both tequila and mezcal come from agave plants, but the types of agaves and production methods differ for each spirit. Mezcal production is deeply rooted in tradition and begins by being cooked in the ground in natural ovens. It’s later distilled in copper pots, giving it that distinct, smoky flavor. However, the more authentic the mezcal, the less smoky it tastes.
This recipe also calls for blanco tequila in addition to the mezcal to balance the flavors and round out the drink. Lastly, I’ve found that using honey balances out the cocktail’s other, stronger flavors. And don’t forget your sliced jalapeño and chili salt for that extra kick! The resulting sip is a beautiful blend of tangy, smoky, and salty with just enough sweetness.
Mezcal Paloma Ingredients and Substitutions
Here’s everything you need to mix up this cocktail in less than five minutes:
A few limes. Fresh-squeezed lime juice makes all the difference.
Grapefruit. You can opt for store-bought grapefruit juice, but the drink will taste the most fresh if you juice the grapefruit yourself. And if you opt for the store-bought route, just be sure to use a bottle without added sugar.
Honey. For a dash of sweetness.
Sparkling water. It’ll give your Paloma that extra fizz. I love Topo chico but club soda works as well.
Jalapeño. A little goes a long way!
Chili salt. You can buy store-bought chili salt or make your own. (Instructions below!)
Garnishes. I’ve used fresh herbs like rosemary, lime, grapefruit wedges, and even sliced cucumber.
How to Make This Mezcal Paloma Recipe
This cocktail couldn’t be any easier, and I love that it’s simple enough to make large pitchers so guests can mix up their drinks as they please.
To make the Tajín rim, mix equal parts pink Himalayan salt and Tajín in a small bowl. Spread the mixture in a thin layer evenly across a plate. Wet the rim of a cocktail glass with a lime wedge, then dip the cocktail glass upside down into the chili salt mixture to line the rim.
To a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add tequila, mezcal, lime juice, grapefruit juice, a jalapeño slice, and honey. Strain into an ice-filled glass and add a splash of sparkling water of your choice on top. Add your preferred garnishes.
What to Serve With This Mezcal Paloma
These mezcal Palomas have been a crowd-pleaser at my house this summer. Mix up a batch and enjoy your cocktails alongside sheet pan chicken fajitas, tostadas, or one of our best taco recipes of all time. For summer gatherings, I love to double (or triple!) the recipe and prepare it in a big pitcher for friends to pour over ice when they’re ready for a cocktail.
This mezcal paloma is tart, smoky, spicy, and a little bit sweet.
1oz blanco tequila (I like LALO)
1oz mezcal (I like Madre mezcal)
1/2oz fresh lime juice
2oz fresh grapefruit juice
1/2oz honey
1oz sparkling water (I like Topo Chico)
sliced jalapeño
chili salt: mix pink Himalayan salt and Tajín seasoning together in a small bowl
garnish with a grapefruit wedge and a handful of rosemary sprigs
Mix equal parts pink Himalayan salt and Tajín in a small bowl. Transfer to a plate and spread across the plate evenly. Wet the rim of a cocktail glass with a lime wedge, then dip the cocktail glass upside down into the chili salt mixture to line the rim.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add tequila, mezcal, lime juice, grapefruit juice, a jalapeño slice, and honey.
Strain into an ice-filled glass and add a splash of Topo Chico on top.
Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and a rosemary sprig.
We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.
With temps at their highest all year, keeping cool while looking styled can feel like a balancing act. Denim shorts and a white tee are go-to, warm-weather staples, but I need a little more in my rotation to keep me feeling inspired. Enter the best linen clothing. The effortless, European summer-coded fabric is light and breathable. And honestly? It’s all I want to wear.
I’m a firm believer that we should all be living in linen right now. To help you navigate the trending—but timeless!—fabric, I’ve rounded up this season’s best linen clothing.
From the perfect pair of white linen pants to statement dresses, every piece in the list below is guaranteed to make you feel your comfiest and coolest, while looking your best. And if you think linen is only a summer essential, think again. The best linen clothing can be paired with warm knits and denim during the transitional seasons, too! So, get ready to add-to-cart because the linen clothing your closet needs is all right here.
Best Linen Clothing: Tops
From vests to button-downs, linen tops are at the top of my wishlist. Pairing perfectly with denim, silks, or coordinating bottoms, a linen top is an elevated alternative to your favorite white tee or tank.
When shopping for linen tops, I look for something that’s a bit more fun and flirty for summer outings. However, most of these can also double as workwear. You can also never go wrong styling a white linen button-down unbuttoned over a white tank with a good pair of jeans. Throw on a sunhat and a pair of fun sandals and you have an effortlessly chic summer fit. Out of all of the best linen clothing, I recommend investing in a linen top (or two), as these can be easily layered depending on the time of year and styled with just about any bottom in your closet.
Best Linen Clothing: Bottoms
As someone who avoids denim shorts 99% of the year, finding summer pants, skirts, and shorts can prove to be a challenge. However, I started building my collection of the best linen clothing last summer. Now, these linen bottoms have become a no-brainer when getting dressed.
From DISSH’s coordinating skirts to J.Crew’s long and lean shorts, these bottoms will be the perfect pair to every top you own—linen or not. When shopping for linen bottoms, specifically white ones, be sure they aren’t see-through, and wear nude underwear regardless. (Skims is the best.)
Personally, I’ve been living in Reformation’s linen pants. They pass the sheer test, and they’re so easy to style that I’m tempted to wear them every day. (Don’t worry, I actively remind myself to give my other linen staples some love.) But of course, you can’t go wrong with any of the pieces on this list.
Best Linen Clothing: Dresses & Jumpsuits
Linen dresses or jumpsuits are the most obvious choice for an easy, (literally) breezy summer look. There’s nothing better than a one-and-done outfit that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and cool in the heat. Ideal for daytime cookouts, dinners al fresco, and even summer weddings, the best linen clothing can be dressed up or down with the right accessories.
I’ve been gravitating toward linen dresses every weekend. With a swap from a sneaker to a sandal, these looks can take me through my entire day. I’d style the below linen dresses and jumpsuits with a strappy sandal, a raffia bag, and a pearl necklace for a simple—never boring—look that’ll earn compliments everywhere you go.
For me, the perfect summer evening includes laid-back vibes and friends gathered around the grill. And more often than not lately, our grill is full of these spice-rubbed grilled chicken thighs that are about as carefree (and flavor-packed) as it gets. Not only are they faster to make than ordering takeout—they also happen to be an incredibly budget-friendly option for serving a crowd. These flavor-packed chicken thighs have become our go-to for effortless hosting that let me savor every moment of the season.
Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breast: The Great Debate
I certainly used to be team white meat, but over the years, I’ve learned firsthand why most chefs will take thighs over breast any day. Because chicken thighs have more fat content compared to chicken breasts, they’re usually richer, juicier, and more flavorful. This also means they’re less likely to dry out on the grill.
Feel-Good Flavor
These grilled chicken thighs are not only delicious—they’re also packed with nutrients. Chicken thighs are:
Packed with B vitamins, vital for energy production
Plus, grilling is a healthier cooking method that requires little to no added fats.
Tips for Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs
Bring the chicken to room temperature before grilling for more even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness without overcooking.
Let the chicken rest after grilling to retain its juices before you slice into it.
Experiment with different herbs and spices in the marinade to suit your taste.
What to Serve With Spice-Rubbed Chicken Thighs
This grilled chicken thigh recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an invitation to slow down, gather with loved ones, and relish in the simple pleasures of summer. So fire up that grill, and make some memories around the table this season!
These spice-rubbed grilled chicken thighs are an easy grilling recipe that will be on repeat this summer.
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons paprika
2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt
A few grinds black pepper
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for grill.
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 cup pitted green olives, chopped
2 lemons, thinly sliced
Mint leaves and arugula, for garnish
In a medium serving bowl, stir together paprika, chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic salt, and pepper. Add the chicken, then toss together to coat.
Heat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Use a paper towel to coat the grill gates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken until lightly charred and cooked through, turning occasionally, about 12 – 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and honey.
Place the chicken on a serving platter, top with the olives, lemon slices, arugula, and mint, then drizzle with the vinaigrette. Enjoy!
We may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.
Hear me out: I would never advocate for a sunburn. I don’t even support tanning—just perfect your self-tanner routine then coat yourself with sunscreen. However, I can’t help but think that the sun-kissed flush exclusive to summer is the perfect beauty look. I know you know (and probably agree). Think: rosy red cheeks minus the heat exhaustion, and the pinkish tint across your nose, but without the sun damage. No wonder blush is one of the summer’s biggest trends. And now, you can get that romantic rouge easier than ever with the best blush sticks on the market.
In the summer, my makeup routine dwindles down to almost nothing. (Skinimalism is going strong!) When I’m traveling, I’m deliberately minimalist about the products I pack. But even when I’m home, I don’t want layers of product sitting on my face.
Simplicity is key—and so is versatility. Enter: blush sticks. This seasonal replacement for powder or liquid blushes is convenient on the go but also lasts longer and sticks easier to fresh-faced summer skin.
Comparing Cream, Powder, and Liquid Blush
Blush sticks are cream blushes that come in easy, pocket-sized packaging. You might be used to brushing on a powder blush to the apples of your cheeks, but cream blush is becoming everyone’s go-to for a rosy complexion.
Cream blush sits on top of the skin, letting you do more with less product. Thanks to its texture, it promotes an even, dewy complexion. While powder blush can crease and liquid blush can cling to dry patches, cream blush gives you a natural, glowy finish.
The Magic of a Multi-Stick
Another benefit of blush sticks is that they often are multiple products in one. Palettes are passé, but multi-sticks give you a cohesive wash of color for your cheeks, eyes, lips, and even the bridge of your nose. With all its many applications, you can rely on one product for countless looks.
The Best Blush Sticks for a Year-Round, Sun-Kissed Glow
I tested and reviewed the creamiest blush sticks for every makeup look, skin concern, and practical need. Ahead, you’ll discover blush sticks with SPF, the viral picks everybody’s talking about, and blush sticks that are, frankly, underrated. Read on for the best blush sticks to give you that summer glow in just a few swipes.
Whenever Hailey Bieber releases a new product via her viral line, Rhode, the beauty world is rocked. This blush stick is no different—honestly, the hype just grows with every drop. And unlike other beauty brands that are all smoke and mirrors, these buzzed-about products quickly become mainstays in our makeup routines. Because yes, they’re that good.
This blush stick is a buildable pigment that glides on smooth and gives you an instant pick-me-up. I like the shade “toasted teddy.” It feels sophisticated while still being fun and flirty. Consider it the red wine of blush sticks that’s perfect for summer nights.
Our verdict: The three-in-one favorite with countless shades.
Shade options:12
One of the best blush sticks out there, this ILIA multi-stick can do it all. The skincare-first makeup brand makes clean products that look good without compromising your skin. This buildable blush stick is also a highlighter and lip tint. Dot it everywhere you need a bit of color and blend with a finger (my favorite application method) for natural, dewy coverage. The subtle iridescence will make you look radiant—never shiny.
I’ve long been a believer in Westman Atelier’s foundation sticks. Now, the blush sticks have found their way into my makeup bag as well. This luxury, clean beauty mainstay will make you turn on any other blush. It contains skin-loving ingredients like kaolin clay, which prevents clogged pores and absorbs excess oil, and antioxidant-rich vitamins C and E. Just one swipe is enough for a healthy wash of color.
This lightweight cream blush is the closest I’ve gotten to a natural, skin-like glow. The blend is seamless, and it’s easy to apply with your fingers alone. (No endless patting of your makeup sponge.) If you know Ami Cole from their featherlight foundation, trust that their blush and lip multi-stick is just as satisfying to put on. The texture melts into your skin for a no-makeup-makeup look. #CleanLook lovers, this one’s for you.
I can never resist a French-girl beauty secret. (Is anyone immune to their timeless, but trend-setting prowess?) I even stock up on my favorite French pharmacy products during every Charles de Gaulle layover. And one thing French girls know, it’s a rouge—whether it’s their lips or their cheeks, they always get it right. Violette FR’s matte cream blush gives you a classic look you can dab on your cheeks and lips. The marbled swirl makes for a multidimensional finish, while the attached blush ensures a smooth blend.
Contour isn’t dead—it’s just been revamped. This contour blush stick is ideal for anyone who doesn’t want to give up on their sculpted look. A single swipe defines your features without weighing down your skin. With a buildable glow and iridescent finish, you get a glassy, gleaming color with each swipe. It also uses green coffee oil to stimulate collagen, sal tree resin to smooth over pores, and tapioca powder to absorb excess oils.
Our verdict: Your go-to, buildable blush for a sun-kissed look.
Shade options: 9
The satiny, nonstick finish on this multi-use balm is universally flattering—and we love that it’s tiny enough to slide into your pocket or purse. Blendable and buildable, it conditions skin with vitamin E oil for a natural—never cakey—finish. Most importantly, it lets your skin tone shine through for a realistic flush. Pro tip: Pair with Merit’s Dayglow highlighting balm for a dewy sheen without any sparkle.
Our verdict: The lightweight blush stick you’ll take on every trip.
Shade options:10
With more of a texture that’s more oil than cream, I always imagine this blush stick as a vacation carry-on. Swipe it on your skin post-beach/pre-dinner or in the morning before setting off on your adventures. It’s light, hydrating, and defines barely-there color. As one of the OG clean beauty blush sticks, it’s a staple for its hydrating properties and unique olive oil formula. Said differently: where I go, it goes. Always.
Our verdict: The best skin-boosting option that sensitive skin will love.
Shade options:8
Hydrating and plumping, trust Lady Gaga to create a high-pigmented blush stick that plumps, hydrates, and soothes the skin. It’s formulated to boost collagen, and plump and hydrate the skin while reducing unwanted redness for the perfect amount of pigment. Best for sensitive skin or irritated skin, this is the best blush stick to give your skin some TLC after long days in the sun.
Our verdict: The sun-protectant, buildable boost of SPF.
Shade options:6
You might know Colorescience from their viral color-changing sunscreen. But the brand’s magic with pigmented SPF doesn’t end there. This multi-stick gives you both a natural flush with its range of pigments and a shield of mineral sun protection. However, you don’t want to count on it alone to protect you from the sun. Dermatologists say that makeup products containing sunscreen aren’t as effective alone since we tend not to use enough of them. Still, this is a great blush stick for a buildable boost of SPF that you’ll be happy to reapply.
