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, the bright noodles brought huge smiles at our family birthday dinner. It was just as fun seeing everyone guess the flavors hidden beneath the creamy cloud sauce.
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
- Prepare Colorful Water:
- 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.
- Tint the Water:
- Add a small amount of food coloring to each bowl, stirring well to achieve your desired shade.
- Cook 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.
- Make Cloud Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth.
- Finish the 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 with garnishes.
Save This dish has quickly become one of our family's favorite birthday traditions. Kids love swirling the noodles into new color patterns at the table.
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 Serve Neon Noodle Cloud while still warm for the creamiest texture. The more colors you use, the more magical the effect!
Kitchen Questions
- → How do you achieve vibrant noodle colors?
Use gel-based food coloring to tint noodles during boiling. Separate water and cook noodles individually for each color.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Absolutely. Substitute plant-based milk, vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast for all dairy ingredients.
- → How is the cloud-like sauce prepared?
Cream cheese is melted with butter, then milk and parmesan are whisked in along with cornstarch for thickening to create a smooth, fluffy texture.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Yes, swap wheat noodles for gluten-free alternatives to enjoy the dish without wheat allergens.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Serve immediately after assembly, garnished with scallions, sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens for a festive look.
- → How can you keep noodle colors distinct in the sauce?
Gently fold colored noodles into the sauce, avoiding excess mixing. Or swirl for a marbled effect right before serving.