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 niece's birthday. Watching her and her friends marvel at the blue and pink noodles wrapped in creamy sauce is a memory I cherish. This recipe quickly became a family favorite for any celebration.
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 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 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 they will finish cooking in the sauce. 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.
- Coat Noodles:
- 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.
Pin My kids love helping choose the noodle colors, and it has become a cheerful weeknight dinner they always request. The excitement at the table makes this recipe extra special for family gatherings.
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 milk, vegan cheese, and gluten-free noodles. Always check food coloring labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 390, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 50 g, Protein: 12 g
Pin A whimsical dish sure to spark delight, Neon Noodle Cloud brings color and creamy comfort to your table. Enjoy every fluffy, flavorful bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve vibrant colors for the noodles?
Use gel-based food coloring, divide the noodles and water into separate bowls, and boil each batch with a different color until desired shade is reached.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based milk, vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast for the cheesy flavor.
- → How do I keep noodle colors distinct when mixing?
Gently fold the noodles into the sauce just before serving and avoid overmixing to maintain sharp, cloud-like color swirls.
- → What garnishes work best for a whimsical finish?
Finely sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens add both beauty and flavor to the dish.
- → Is this suitable for parties or kids?
Yes, the colorful presentation, creamy texture, and mild flavor make it a hit with both children and adults at festive gatherings.
- → Can gluten-free noodles be used?
Yes, substitute with your favorite gluten-free noodles to make a safe, vibrant dish for those with gluten sensitivities.