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 created these Neon Noodle Clouds for my niece's birthday, and the look on her face when she saw the rainbow noodles was priceless. It's become a party staple in our family—kids love to help with the coloring and everyone enjoys the creamy, dreamy 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
- 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. 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 theyll finish cooking in the sauce). Rinse under cold water to stop cooking and set aside.
- Prepare the 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.
- 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 My kids love swirling their own colors in and using their favorite toppings. This dish is a true show-stopper for family dinners and always brings laughter to 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 check food coloring labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 390, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 50 g, Protein: 12 g
Save This dish is sure to spark conversation and joy at any gathering. Let each person customize their colors for a playful meal experience.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve vibrant colored noodles?
Use gel food coloring to dye boiling water before cooking noodle portions. Rinse noodles after boiling to set the colors.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes. Substitute plant-based milk, vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast for the cheese ingredients.
- → What garnishes enhance the presentation?
Finely sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens add color, texture, and freshness.
- → How can I keep noodle colors separate?
Cook and rinse each colored noodle batch individually. Gently fold noodles into sauce without mixing too vigorously.
- → Is this dish suitable for kids?
Absolutely. The playful colors and creamy sauce make it appealing and fun for children, as well as adults.
- → What tools will I need?
Prepare a large pot, several heatproof bowls, a saucepan, whisk, and colander for efficient cooking and coloring.