Pin It 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 dish for a friend's birthday party and it was an instant hit—the rainbow noodles were met with laughter and lots of pictures before anyone even took a bite! Everyone loved the creamy, comforting sauce and creative presentation.
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 Colored Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Divide the water into separate bowls according to the number of colors you wish to use. Add a small amount of food coloring to each bowl, stirring well to achieve your desired shade. Divide the noodles into equal portions and cook each portion separately in the colored boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes less than package instructions. Rinse under cold water to stop cooking and set aside.
- Make the Cloud Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth. Whisk in milk, parmesan, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is thick and creamy, about 5 minutes.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the noodles to the sauce, gently folding to coat. Try to keep colors distinct for a cloud effect, or swirl for a marbled look. Serve immediately, topping with scallions, sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens if desired.
Pin It This has now become a family favorite, especially when we want something cheerful for weekend dinners—my kids love picking their own noodle colors!
Required Tools
Large pot, multiple heatproof bowls, saucepan, colander, whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (milk, cream cheese, parmesan, butter) and wheat (noodles). For vegan and gluten-free options, use suitable substitutes and double-check food coloring labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 390, Total Fat: 15 g, Carbohydrates: 50 g, Protein: 12 g
Pin It Try varying the noodle shapes or colors to match special occasions—this dish is guaranteed to brighten any table!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I achieve bright colored noodles?
Use gel-based food coloring in separate bowls of boiling water to tint noodles before rinsing in cold water.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk, vegan cream cheese, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast instead of dairy ingredients.
- → What garnishes work well for serving?
Finely sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, edible flowers, or microgreens add freshness and visual appeal.
- → Is it possible to prepare noodles ahead?
Yes, you can color and rinse noodles ahead. Reheat gently in the creamy sauce when ready to serve to maintain texture.
- → What is the recommended pairing beverage?
Crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade complements the richness and colorful presentation of the dish.
- → How do I maintain noodle color when mixing with sauce?
Gently fold noodles into the sauce and avoid vigorous stirring to keep colors distinct for a cloud effect.