Neon Noodle Cloud Creamy (Print Version)
Vibrant noodles in creamy cloud sauce with scallions, sesame seeds, and optional edible flowers for a playful fusion dish.
# Components:
→ Noodles
01 - 10.5 oz dried wheat noodles or ramen noodles
02 - Food coloring gels (pink, blue, yellow, green; gel coloring recommended)
→ Cloud Sauce
03 - 3/4 cup whole milk or plant-based milk
04 - 4.2 oz cream cheese or vegan substitute
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 rolling boil. Divide the boiling water into several heatproof bowls corresponding to the number of colors intended for use.
02 - Stir a small amount of gel-based food coloring into each bowl, mixing thoroughly to achieve vibrant hues.
03 - Separate dried noodles into equal portions and cook each batch in its colored boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes less than the package instructions. This keeps the noodles al dente for final cooking. Drain and rinse under cold water to halt further cooking, then set aside.
04 - Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add cream cheese and gently stir until fully blended and smooth.
05 - Add whole milk, grated parmesan cheese, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper to the pan. Whisk continuously over medium heat until the mixture thickens and attains a smooth, creamy consistency, about 5 minutes.
06 - Gently fold colored noodles into the sauce, taking care to keep colors distinct, or swirl lightly for a marbled effect.
07 - Serve immediately, topping each plate with sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens as desired.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Bright, playful colors make any meal memorable
- Creamy sauce that is kid and adult approved
02 -
- Gel food coloring yields the brightest colors and holds better during cooking
- You can make this vegan or gluten-free with appropriate substitutes and double-check coloring ingredients
03 -
- Swirl colored sauce with a piping bag for an extra magical look
- Serve immediately for best texture and brightest colors