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 made this for my niece's birthday party and the blend of colorful noodles and creamy sauce had the kids and grown-ups equally enchanted. It has since become a favorite for our family gatherings.
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 Colorful Noodle Water:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Divide the water into separate bowls according to the number of colors you want.
- Add Coloring:
- Stir in a small amount of food coloring gel to each bowl to reach the desired shade.
- Cook Noodles:
- Divide noodles into equal portions and cook each in colored boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes less than package instructions. Rinse noodles under cold water and set aside.
- Make Cloud Sauce:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth.
- Thicken Sauce:
- Whisk in milk, parmesan, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Stir until thick and creamy—about 5 minutes.
- Combine Noodles and Sauce:
- Add noodles to sauce, gently folding to coat. Keep colors distinct for a cloud effect, or swirl for marbled look.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top with scallions, sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens if desired. Serve immediately.
Save This dish always sparks laughter around our table, and the kids love choosing which color noodle to eat first.
Required Tools
Large pot, multiple heatproof bowls, saucepan, colander, whisk.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and wheat. Vegan and gluten-free substitutions possible. Always check food coloring labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 390 calories, 15 g total fat, 50 g carbohydrates, 12 g protein.
Save Noodle clouds are guaranteed to brighten any table. Make it ahead for parties and let guests marvel at the magical colors.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I get vibrant noodle colors?
Use gel-based food coloring to achieve bright, distinct noodle hues. Cook noodles separately in colored water for best results.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Yes, substitute plant-based milk, vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast for a fully vegan option.
- → What garnishes work well?
Scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens complement both flavor and appearance.
- → Can I prepare the noodles ahead?
You can cook and color noodles ahead; rinse in cold water and store separately. Mix with sauce just before serving.
- → What is the best wine pairing?
A crisp white wine pairs wonderfully, or choose sparkling lemonade for a non-alcoholic accompaniment.
- → Is there a gluten-free version?
Use gluten-free noodles and verify all ingredients, including food coloring, for suitable options.