Neon Noodle Cloud Magic (Print Version)

Vivid noodles in creamy sauce, garnished with scallions and sesame, offering playful colors for a joyful table.

# Components:

→ Noodles

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

→ Cloud Sauce

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

→ Garnish

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

# Method:

01 - Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Divide the boiling water into heatproof bowls, matching the number of colors desired.
02 - Add a small amount of food coloring gel to each bowl and stir thoroughly to reach vibrant shades.
03 - Split noodles into equal portions. Boil each batch in colored water for 2–3 minutes less than package instructions to preserve color and texture. Drain and rinse noodles in cold water to halt cooking.
04 - Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add cream cheese and stir until silky and smooth.
05 - Whisk in milk, parmesan, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thick and creamy, about 5 minutes.
06 - Fold cooked noodles into the sauce, gently coating and arranging to maintain distinct color sections or create a marbled effect if preferred.
07 - Transfer to serving plates immediately. Top with finely sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens as desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Visually stunning and fun to prepare
  • Adaptable for vegetarian and vegan diets
02 -
  • Gel-based food coloring gives the brightest hues without watering down noodles
  • This dish can be prepared vegan and gluten-free with simple ingredient swaps
03 -
  • Use a piping bag to add colored swirls of sauce for extra drama
  • Serve immediately for best texture the sauce thickens as it cools