Pin 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 created Neon Noodle Cloud for my daughter's birthday, and the joy of swirling the colors together brought genuine smiles to our table. Watching everyone marvel at their own color combinations made it a treasured dinner we keep repeating on special occasions.
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
- Prep Noodle Colors:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Divide the water into separate bowls according to the number of colors you wish to use. Add a small amount of food coloring to each bowl, stirring well to achieve your desired shade. Divide the noodles into equal portions and cook each portion separately in the colored boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes less than package instructions. Rinse under cold water to stop cooking and set aside.
- Make Cloud Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth. Whisk milk, parmesan, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper into the saucepan. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thick and creamy. This takes about 5 minutes.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add noodles to the sauce, gently folding to coat. Keep colors distinct for a cloud effect, or swirl for a marbled look. Serve immediately, topping with scallions, sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens if desired.
Pin This is our go-to recipe when cousins come over: everyone gathers in the kitchen to pick their favorite colors and swirl sauces. It has become a creative tradition that sparks laughter and competition for the brightest bowl.
Required Tools
Large pot, multiple heatproof bowls, saucepan, colander, whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and wheat. Easily adaptable to vegan and gluten-free diets if you use suitable substitutes. Always double-check food coloring labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 390, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 50 g, Protein: 12 g
Pin This recipe transforms ordinary noodles into magical clouds of color. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you need to bring joy to the table.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I get vibrant colored noodles?
Use gel-based food coloring in boiling water to achieve bold hues for your noodles. Cook each portion separately for best results.
- → Can the dish be made vegan?
Yes. Opt for plant-based milk, vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and substitute nutritional yeast for parmesan.
- → What gives the sauce its cloud-like texture?
The creamy sauce combines milk, cream cheese, butter, and cornstarch for a rich, soft consistency.
- → What garnishes work well for this dish?
Top with sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens to add freshness and flair.
- → Is it safe to use food coloring?
Choose gel-based colorings labeled food safe and suitable for cooking. Double-check allergen info if needed.
- → What drinks pair well with this?
A crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade complements the creamy texture and lively colors of the dish.
