Neon Noodle Cloud (Print)

Colorful noodles in a luscious creamy sauce, ideal for festive gatherings and impressing both kids and adults.

# Components:

→ Noodles

01 - 10.5 oz dried wheat noodles or ramen noodles
02 - Food coloring gels (pink, blue, yellow, green; gel-type preferred)

→ Cloud Sauce

03 - 3/4 cup whole milk or plant-based milk
04 - 4.25 oz cream cheese or vegan cream cheese
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)

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Divide the boiling water evenly into separate heatproof bowls for each desired color.
02 - Mix a small amount of gel food coloring into each bowl, stirring thoroughly to achieve vibrant hues.
03 - Portion the noodles equally and cook each batch in the colored boiling water for 2–3 minutes less than package directions. Rinse noodles under cold water to halt cooking. Set aside.
04 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, then add cream cheese. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth.
05 - Whisk in milk, parmesan cheese, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Continue stirring over medium heat until the sauce thickens and turns creamy, about 5 minutes.
06 - Gently fold the colored noodles into the sauce, maintaining distinct colors for a cloud-like effect or swirling for a marbled appearance.
07 - Immediately plate the noodles. Top with scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and optionally edible flowers or microgreens.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Bright colors make mealtime fun
  • Vegetarian and can be made vegan
02 -
  • Use gel food coloring for vibrant noodles
  • Check ingredient labels for common allergens, especially food coloring
03 -
  • For extra fun, use a piping bag to swirl colored sauce over noodles before serving
  • Pair with a crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade for added flair