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.
The first time I made Neon Noodle Cloud, I was shocked by how much joy it brought not just to kids but the adults too. Watching everyone marvel at the colors before diving in made dinner extra memorable.
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 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.
- Cook the Noodles:
- 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.
- Prepare Cloud Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the 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—about 5 minutes.
- Finish Noodles in Sauce:
- Add the noodles to the sauce, gently folding to coat. Try to keep colors distinct for a cloud effect or swirl for a marbled look.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, topping with scallions, sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens if desired.
Save This recipe quickly became a favorite for family birthdays, with each person choosing their own noodle colors. It's a playful way to make mealtime feel special.
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 check food coloring labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 390, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 50 g, Protein: 12 g
Save Neon Noodle Cloud is guaranteed to brighten any table and bring smiles. Color your dinner and watch delight unfold.
Recipe Guide
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Use plant-based milk, vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free version.
- → Which noodles work best for vibrant coloring?
Dried wheat noodles or ramen are ideal, as they absorb colors well and have a pleasant texture after boiling.
- → Can I prepare the noodles ahead of time?
You can color and cook the noodles in advance, then store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the sauce before serving.
- → What are suitable garnish options?
Finish with scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens for extra flair and flavor.
- → How to keep noodle colors vibrant during cooking?
Cook noodles in colored water, rinse under cold water, and gently fold into sauce to keep colors distinct or marbled.
- → Are there gluten-free alternatives?
Use gluten-free noodles and verify all ingredients and food colorings are gluten-free for allergy-friendly options.