Save A vibrant, whimsical noodle dish featuring colorful noodles nestled in a soft, cloud-like creamy sauce. Perfect for parties or to delight kids and adults alike.
I first made Neon Noodle Cloud for a family birthday, and everyone was charmed by both its playful colors and rich, creamy flavor. It's quickly become a party favorite in our home.
Ingredients
- Noodles: 300 g dried wheat noodles or ramen noodles, food coloring gels (pink, blue, yellow, green—gel coloring preferred for vibrancy)
- Cloud Sauce: 200 ml whole milk or plant-based milk, 120 g cream cheese (or vegan alternative), 1 tbsp unsalted butter (or vegan butter), 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan), 1 tsp cornstarch, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp white pepper
- Garnish: 2 scallions, finely sliced, 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, edible flowers or microgreens (optional)
Instructions
- Color the Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Divide the water into separate bowls for each color you want to achieve. Add a small amount of gel food coloring to each bowl and stir well.
- Cook the Noodles:
- Divide noodles into equal portions and cook each separately in the colored water for 2 to 3 minutes less than package instructions. Rinse noodles under cold water to stop cooking and set aside.
- Make the Cloud Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and stir in cream cheese until smooth. Whisk in milk, parmesan, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Stir constantly until the sauce is thick and creamy, about 5 minutes.
- Finish the Dish:
- Add cooked noodles to the sauce, gently folding to coat. Keep colors distinct for a cloud effect, or swirl gently for a marbled look.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, topped with sliced scallions, sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens if desired.
Save Making this recipe together often turns into a creative kitchen adventure for our family, with everyone choosing and swirling their favorite colors. It's a memory-maker, especially for kids.
Required Tools
Large pot, multiple heatproof bowls, saucepan, colander, whisk.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and wheat. For vegan and gluten-free options, use suitable substitutes and double-check food coloring labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 390, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 50 g, Protein: 12 g.
Save This playful noodle dish instantly brightens any table, and its creamy sauce makes it comforting as well.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I ensure vibrant noodle colors?
Use gel-based food coloring and cook each portion separately for maximum vibrancy. Rinse after cooking to preserve colors.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Swap out dairy ingredients for plant-based milk, vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
- → What type of noodles work best?
Use dried wheat noodles, ramen, or any neutral-flavored noodle. Smooth surfaces hold the color and sauce well.
- → How do I get a cloud-like sauce texture?
Whisk cornstarch into the sauce and cook until creamy and thickened. Fold gently to coat noodles evenly.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Yes, simply use certified gluten-free noodles and verify your food coloring is gluten-free.
- → What garnishes enhance presentation?
Try scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens for extra whimsy and texture.