Pin It A vibrant, whimsical noodle dish that showcases colorful noodles nestled in a soft, cloud-like creamy sauce. Neon Noodle Cloud is perfect for parties or for delighting both kids and adults alike with its striking appearance and fusion flavors.
I first prepared Neon Noodle Cloud for a family celebration, and everyone was enchanted by the bright, cheerful noodles. It quickly became our go-to whenever we wanted to surprise guests or brighten up a regular weeknight meal.
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 Noodle Colors:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Divide the water into separate bowls for the colors you wish to use. Add food coloring gel to each bowl, stirring well to create vibrant shades.
- Cook Noodles:
- Divide noodles into equal portions and cook each portion in the colored boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes less than package instructions. Rinse with cold water and set aside.
- Make Cloud Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth. Whisk in milk, parmesan, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until thick and creamy, about 5 minutes.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add noodles to the sauce, gently folding to coat, keeping colors distinct for a cloud effect or swirling for a marbled look. Serve immediately, garnished with scallions, sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens if desired.
Pin It When I served this dish, kids loved picking their favorite colored noodles and imagining eating rainbow clouds. It brought out smiles and laughter, making dinner a magical experience for our family.
Required Tools
Large pot, multiple heatproof bowls, saucepan, colander, whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and wheat. Use plant-based and gluten-free substitutes if needed. Double-check food coloring labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 390 calories, 15 g total fat, 50 g carbohydrates, 12 g protein
Pin It This playful dish transforms any meal into a celebration. Enjoy every whimsical bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve vivid noodle colors?
Use gel food coloring in separate bowls of boiling water. Cook noodle portions in each color for vibrant results.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, substitute plant-based milk, vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly version.
- → What makes the sauce cloud-like?
Combining milk, cream cheese, butter, and parmesan produces a soft, thick, creamy texture reminiscent of clouds.
- → Which garnishes enhance the presentation?
Finely sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, microgreens, or edible flowers add color and texture on top.
- → Are gluten-free options available?
Yes, use gluten-free noodles and check ingredient labels for allergens to suit dietary preferences.
- → What drinks pair best?
Crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade balances the creamy sauce and bright flavors of this fusion dish.