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 dinner and everyone was amazed by how playful and delicious it turned out. The bright noodles immediately sparked conversation and curiosity at the table.
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 Colored Noodle 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.
- Add Coloring:
- 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 (as theyll finish cooking in the sauce). Rinse under cold water to stop cooking and set aside.
- Start Cloud Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth.
- Make Creamy 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 Swirl:
- 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.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Serve immediately, topping with scallions, sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens if desired.
Save This recipe is now requested at every family gathering and always brings out laughter as everyone creates their own serving with favorite colors and toppings. Even picky eaters join in surprises when they taste the cloud sauce.
Required Tools
Large pot. Multiple heatproof bowls. Saucepan. Colander. Whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and wheat. For vegan and gluten-free, use plant-based and suitable noodle substitutes. Always 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 fresh for maximum color and texture fun it is guaranteed to be a memorable centerpiece on any table.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve vibrant noodle colors?
Use gel food coloring and cook the noodles in separate batches for each color. Rinse under cold water to keep colors bright.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Yes. Substitute plant-based milk, vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast for a fully vegan version.
- → How do I maintain the cloud effect in the sauce?
Gently fold the noodles into the sauce, keeping the colors distinct, or swirl them lightly for a marbled look without overmixing.
- → What kind of noodles work best?
Wheat noodles or ramen are ideal, but any long noodle that holds color well will work for this dish.
- → What toppings add extra visual appeal?
Try sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, edible flowers, or microgreens to enhance both flavor and presentation.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Use certified gluten-free noodles and check food coloring labels to accommodate gluten-free diets.