Save It 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 Neon Noodle Cloud for a family gathering and its cheerful colors were an instant hit. Everyone was excited to try something so playful yet comforting.
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 Colored 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.
- Dye the Noodles:
- 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 3 minutes less than package instructions then 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 the 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:
- 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:
- Serve immediately topping with scallions sesame seeds and edible flowers or microgreens if desired.
Save It Kids love helping with coloring the noodles and choosing which garnishes go on top. This dish brings smiles and is a great way to celebrate special occasions together.
Required Tools
Large pot multiple heatproof bowls saucepan colander whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk cream cheese parmesan butter) and wheat (noodles). For vegan and gluten-free options use suitable substitutes and double-check food coloring labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 390 Total Fat 15 g Carbohydrates 50 g Protein 12 g
Save It Serve Neon Noodle Cloud warm and fresh for the most vibrant presentation and creamiest texture. This dish is sure to make any meal memorable!
Common Questions About Recipes
- → How do I achieve vivid noodle colors?
Use gel food coloring in separate boiling water bowls for each color, allowing noodles to absorb vibrant shades.
- → Can I prepare this dish vegan?
Absolutely—swap out dairy milk, cream cheese, and butter for plant-based versions, and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.
- → What garnishes work best?
Finely sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, edible flowers, or microgreens add extra flavor and visual appeal.
- → Is food coloring safe for noodles?
Gel-based colorings designed for cooking are safe. Always check labels for allergen and dietary suitability before use.
- → How do I keep noodle colors distinct?
Fold noodles gently into the sauce instead of vigorous mixing to maintain separation, or create a marbled cloud effect.
- → What is a good pairing drink?
Crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade complements this dish’s creamy sauce and playful presentation.