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 birthday party where both kids and grown-ups found themselves reaching for seconds, enchanted by the playful colors and cloud-soft texture. The dish has become a tradition for celebrations 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 according to the number of colors you wish to use.
- Dye and cook noodles:
- 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 as they will finish cooking in the sauce. Rinse under cold water to stop cooking and set aside.
- Prepare creamy sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth.
- Finish sauce:
- Whisk milk, parmesan, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper into the saucepan. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thick and creamy, about 5 minutes.
- Combine and serve:
- 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 immediately, topping with scallions, sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens if desired.
Save This recipe became a family favorite for rainy-day dinners: we all take turns choosing noodle colors and garnishes, making each meal a unique, joyful memory.
Required Tools
Large pot, multiple heatproof bowls, saucepan, colander, whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and wheat. For vegan and gluten-free options, use plant-based dairy substitutes and gluten-free noodles. Always check food coloring for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 390, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 50 g, Protein: 12 g
Save Let your creativity shine with this dish—each bowl is a unique work of art. Serve immediately to preserve the vivid colors and fluffy sauce.
Kitchen Guide
- → How do I achieve vibrant colored noodles?
Use gel food coloring in separate bowls of boiling water before cooking each noodle portion. Gel formulas yield brighter hues.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, swap in plant-based milk, vegan butter, vegan cream cheese, and nutritional yeast for a fully vegan version.
- → How do I keep noodle colors distinct?
Cook each color separately, then gently fold them into the sauce without mixing too vigorously to preserve individual shades.
- → What garnishes pair best?
Finely sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens add visual appeal and fresh flavor.
- → Is this dish suitable for children?
Absolutely! The whimsical colors and creamy texture make it a favorite among kids and adults alike at festive gatherings.
- → What tools do I need?
Prepare with a large pot, heatproof bowls, saucepan, colander, and whisk to handle cooking and mixing tasks efficiently.