Ingredients

10.5 oz dried wheat noodles or ramen noodles

Food coloring gels (pink, blue, yellow, green; gel type for optimal vibrancy)

3/4 cup whole milk or plant-based milk

4.25 oz cream cheese or vegan cream cheese

1 tbsp unsalted butter or vegan butter

2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast

1 tsp cornstarch

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp ground white pepper

2 scallions, finely sliced

1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Edible flowers or microgreens (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Separate the boiling water into individual heatproof bowls, one for each desired noodle color.

Step 2: Add a small amount of gel food coloring to each bowl and stir well to create vibrant, uniform colors.

Step 3: Divide the dried noodles evenly among the colored bowls and cook each portion for 2–3 minutes less than the package directions to keep them al dente.

Step 4: Once cooked, transfer the noodles to a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 5: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the cream cheese and whisk continuously until smooth.

Step 6: Stir in the milk, grated parmesan (or nutritional yeast), cornstarch, salt, and ground white pepper. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens to a creamy, cloud-like consistency, about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Add the colored noodles to the sauce, gently folding to coat each strand while preserving the distinct colors for a cloud effect, or swirl gently for a marbled look.

Step 8: Serve immediately, garnished with sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and edible flowers or microgreens if using.

Tips & Variations

Use gel food coloring for the most vibrant hues without watering down the noodles.

For a vegan version, substitute cream cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan.

Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the sauce’s flavor.

To create more colors, mix basic gel colors in different bowls before cooking noodles.

FAQs

Can I use fresh noodles instead of dried?

Yes, fresh noodles can be used but reduce the cooking time significantly to avoid overcooking, as fresh noodles cook faster than dried ones.

Will the food coloring stain my hands or kitchen tools?

Gel food coloring can stain skin and surfaces, so it’s best to wear gloves and use utensils you don’t mind getting color on. Clean any spills promptly with soap and water.