Neon Noodle Cloud Fusion (Print Version)

Bright noodles in velvety sauce offer a whimsical, vegetarian main for festive tables and happy diners.

# Components:

→ Noodles

01 - 10.5 oz 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 - 4.2 oz cream cheese or vegan alternative
05 - 1 tbsp unsalted butter or vegan butter
06 - 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for vegan
07 - 1 tsp cornstarch
08 - 1/4 tsp salt
09 - 1/4 tsp white pepper

→ Garnish

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

# Directions:

01 - Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Divide boiling water into separate heatproof bowls equal to the number of desired colors.
02 - Stir a small amount of gel food coloring into each bowl until the preferred shade is reached.
03 - Divide noodles evenly and boil each portion separately in colored water for 2 to 3 minutes less than the package instructions. Rinse cooked noodles under cold water to halt cooking. Set aside.
04 - Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth and fully combined.
05 - Whisk in milk, parmesan cheese, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Stir constantly and cook until thick and creamy, approximately 5 minutes.
06 - Fold colored noodles into the sauce, taking care to preserve distinct hues for a cloud-like effect or gently swirl for a marbled presentation.
07 - Serve immediately topped with sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Eye-catching and playful presentation
  • Customizable for vegetarian or vegan diets
02 -
  • Use gel food coloring for the brightest noodles
  • Plant-based ingredients work for vegan and gluten-free options if needed
03 -
  • Use a piping bag to swirl colored sauce for extra fun
  • Swirl the noodles gently to keep colors vivid