Neon Noodle Cloud Dish (Printable)

Colorful noodles in a soft, creamy sauce for joyful meals, ideal for family gatherings or festive tables.

# What You'll Need:

→ Noodles

01 - 10.5 oz dried wheat noodles or ramen noodles
02 - Food coloring gels in pink, blue, yellow, and green (gel preferred for vibrancy)

→ Cloud Sauce

03 - 3/4 cup whole milk or plant-based milk
04 - 4.25 oz cream cheese or vegan alternative
05 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or vegan butter
06 - 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast
07 - 1 teaspoon cornstarch
08 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon white pepper

→ Garnish

10 - 2 scallions, finely sliced
11 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
12 - Edible flowers or microgreens (optional)

# How to Make It:

01 - Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Divide boiling water evenly into heatproof bowls corresponding to the number of desired noodle colors.
02 - Stir a small amount of gel food coloring into each bowl, mixing thoroughly to achieve vibrant, even coloring.
03 - Separate noodles into equal portions. Cook each portion in its designated colored boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes less than package directions. Transfer noodles to a colander, rinse thoroughly under cold running water to halt cooking, then set aside.
04 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the cream cheese and whisk until the mixture is smooth and unified.
05 - Add milk, parmesan cheese, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper to the saucepan. Cook, stirring briskly and constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes lusciously creamy, approximately 5 minutes.
06 - Transfer colored noodles to the saucepan with the cloud sauce. Gently fold to coat, keeping colors separate for a distinct cloud pattern or swirling them lightly for a marbled appearance.
07 - Serve immediately, garnished with sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens as desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Uses basic pantry and fridge staples with easy upgrades for vegan option
  • Ready to serve in under 40 minutes so it suits busy weekdays
  • Customizable colors let you match any party theme or child's favorite
  • A hit with both adults and kids thanks to its creamy sauce and mild flavor profile
02 -
  • Perfect for vegetarian and vegan diets with simple swaps
  • Gluten-free possible if you substitute rice noodles and double-check food colors
  • Freezes surprisingly well though best enjoyed fresh for color vibrancy
  • The use of gel food coloring keeps the noodles intensely bright but be sure to select baking-safe colors for peace of mind. My favorite ingredient here is the cream cheese which gives the sauce that signature dreamy texture. Sharing this recipe with family always sparks smiles and imaginative table talk especially once the edible flowers come out.
03 -
  • Choose bold vibrant food coloring for maximal visual impact
  • Use fresh cheeses and butters for cloud-like sauce
  • Make ahead base sauce then cook noodles fresh for best presentation
  • Always add noodles to the sauce while it is hot for better coating and texture
  • Toasting sesame seeds freshly enhances aroma and snap
  • If swirling sauce with color use a piping bag for precise marbling just before serving

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