Paleta Shot Recipe – Easy Kitchen Guide

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By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on March 9, 2023 | Last Updated on November 21, 2023

Those who love a good shot of tequila also love the Paleta Shot, which is a Mexican-inspired twist on the classic. If you’ve never tried it before, you’re in for a treat! The Paleta Shot mixes tequila with watermelon schnapps and hot sauce-and even better, it’s usually served with a chili-lime rim.

You will love this flavor combination, which is both sweet and spicy! So, would like to make this drink at home? If yes, check out the article till the end.

Here, we’ve shared the paleta shot recipe and ingredients, as well as some tips and tricks to help you get the best results. So, let’s start!

Paleta Shot Recipe

What Is Paleta Shot?

The Paleta Shot is a Mexican-inspired shot that combines tequila, watermelon schnapps, and hot sauce. It’s served with a chili-lime rim and usually garnished with a lime wedge or wedges.

It has become popular in the US over the past few years and is frequently served at Mexican-inspired bars and restaurants.

What does it taste like?

The Paleta Shot has all the notes of a classic tequila shot, but with added sweetness from the watermelon schnapps and a subtle kick from the hot sauce. The chili-lime rim adds an extra layer of flavor and spice. It’s a complex yet incredibly delicious blend of flavors.

How did I first get introduced to the Paleta Shot?

My first introduction to the Paleta Shot was at a tequila bar in Mexico. I had been drinking regular tequila shots, but my friends encouraged me to try something different and they recommended this shot. I was hesitant at first, but after one sip, I knew it would become a favorite!

How do make Paleta Shot?

You can easily whip up this delicious Paleta Shot in just a few simple steps. Here’s how:

Paleta Shot Recipe

Ingredients

  • Lime juice or water for the rim
  • 2 dashes of hot sauce
  • 1-ounce tequila
  • Tajin for the rim
  • 1/2 ounce watermelon schnapps

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1

Wet the rim of a shot glass with lime juice or water.

Step 2

Dip the rim in Tajin (or your favorite chili-lime seasoning).

Step 3

Add 2 dashes of hot sauce to the bottom of the shot glass.

Step 4

Pour 1 ounce of tequila into the shot glass, then add 1/2 ounce of watermelon schnapps.

Step 5

Place a lime wedge or wedges on the side of the glass, and enjoy!

Tips

• To make the lime juice or water slightly sweet, add a pinch of sugar to it.

• If you don’t have Tajin, you can use chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper for the rim.

• If you want to make this more like a Margarita shot, add 1/4 ounce of triple sec.

• If you want a sweeter shot, add 1/2 ounce of agave syrup.

Paleta Shot Recipe
Paleta Shot Recipe

Paleta Shot Recipe

Those who love a good shot of tequila also love the Paleta Shot, which is a Mexican-inspired twist on the classic. If you’ve never tried it before, you’re in for a treat! The Paleta Shot mixes tequila with watermelon schnapps and hot sauce-and even better, it’s usually served with a chili-lime rim.
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Author: Dr. Leah Alexander
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 8 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Calories: 165kcal

Equipment

  • Shaker
  • Shot glass

Ingredients

  • Tajin for the rim a zesty and savory seasoning blend that adds a burst of flavor and a touch of Mexican flair.
  • 1 ounce of watermelon schnapps imparting a sweet and juicy watermelon essence to the mix.
  • 2 ounces of smooth and robust tequila providing a rich and bold foundation for the cocktail.
  • Lime juice or water for the rim offering a tangy and refreshing element to complement the flavors of the cocktail.
  • 4 dashes of hot sauce infusing the drink with a spicy kick that tantalizes the taste buds.

Instructions

  • Wet the rim of a shot glass with lime juice or water.
  • Dip the rim in Tajin (or your favorite chili-lime seasoning).
  • Add 2 dashes of hot sauce to the bottom of the shot glass.
  • Pour 1 ounce of tequila into the shot glass, then add 1/2 ounce of watermelon schnapps.
  • Place a lime wedge or wedges on the side of the glass, and enjoy!

Notes

• To make the lime juice or water slightly sweet, add a pinch of sugar to it.
• If you don’t have Tajin, you can use chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper for the rim.
• If you want to make this more like a Margarita shot, add 1/4 ounce of triple sec.
• If you want a sweeter shot, add 1/2 ounce of agave syrup.
Keyword: Paleta Shot, Paleta Shot Recipe

Nutrition Information

This Paleta Shot has approximately 169 calories per serving and 0 grams of fat. Besides, it also has 16.5 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of protein, and 0.4 grams of sodium.

What to serve with Paleta Shot?

For a delicious meal pairing, serve this shot alongside some watermelon slices or other fresh fruits for a refreshing treat! You can also pair it with chips, salsa, guacamole, or any other snacks you like.

How to store leftover Paleta Shot?

Since this shot contains tequila and schnapps, it’s best not to store the leftovers in the refrigerator. Instead, drink it all up within a few hours and enjoy!

Can pregnant women eat this?

This shot contains alcohol and is not recommended for pregnant women. Instead, they can enjoy a mocktail version made with non-alcoholic ingredients such as lime juice, watermelon juice, agave syrup, hot sauce, and Tajin seasoning for a flavorful treat.

FAQs

Can I make this shot ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients for the shot ahead of time and store in a sealed container for up to a day. Just be sure to serve it chilled.

What other flavor combinations can I use?

Try using different types of schnapps such as peach, raspberry, or coconut for a sweet and fruity twist.

Does this shot contain any dairy products?

No, there are no dairy products used in this recipe.

Wrapping Up

The Paleta Shot is an easy-to-make tequila shot that’s perfect for parties or special occasions. It packs a spicy yet sweet flavor and makes a delicious accompaniment to any meal or snack. So, why not give it a try? You won’t be disappointed! 

Also, you can share this recipe with your friends and family to enjoy together. I’m sure they’ll love it too! Also, share with us your experience with Paleta Shot. We’d love to hear it!

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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.

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