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 made Neon Noodle Cloud for my family last weekend, and everyone was amazed by the playful colors. Even picky eaters wanted seconds when they saw how fun dinner looked.
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 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.
- Color the Water:
- Add a small amount of food coloring to each bowl stirring well to achieve your desired shade.
- Cook Colored Noodles:
- Divide the noodles into equal portions and cook each portion separately in colored boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes less than package instructions. Rinse under cold water and set aside.
- Make Cloud 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 Noodles and Sauce:
- Add the noodles to the sauce gently folding to coat. Keep colors distinct for a cloud effect or swirl for marbled look.
- Serve:
- Top with scallions sesame seeds and edible flowers or microgreens if desired.
Pin
My youngest loved swirling the colors together while my partner sprinkled the sesame seeds on top. It turned dinner into a memory we still talk about.
Required Tools
Large pot, multiple heatproof bowls, saucepan, colander, and whisk are needed to create the perfect noodle clouds.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and wheat. Vegan and gluten-free swaps available. Check food coloring for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 390 calories, 15 g total fat, 50 g carbohydrates, and 12 g protein.
Pin Serve Neon Noodle Cloud immediately for best texture and effect. The colors and creaminess make every bite a celebration.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- β How do I get vibrant noodle colors?
Use gel-based food coloring for deep, bright hues. Cook noodle portions separately in colored boiling water and rinse afterwards.
- β Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based milk, vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast.
- β What type of noodles are best?
Dried wheat noodles or ramen noodles work well. You can also choose rice noodles for a gluten-free version.
- β How do I keep noodle colors distinct?
Gently fold noodles into the creamy sauce rather than mixing vigorously. Swirl for a marbled effect or layer for separation.
- β Are there garnish options?
Top with finely sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens to enhance vibrancy and texture.
- β What should I serve with this dish?
Pair with crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade for a refreshing complement to the colorful, creamy noodles.