Description: Instant mousse imported from Nestle in France. Flavors are available in dark and milk chocolate, as well as Irish cream and raspberry truffle mixed with chocolate.

Preparation summary: Combine powdered mousse mix and 2/3 cup of cold milk in bowl and beat on medium speed for one minute, then high speed for two to three minutes.

Highpoints: A fine alternative for topping off cakes because it doesn’t contain the oil and high sugar levels found in canned frostings. Thick and airy texture retains swirls, curls and squiggles when piped through a pastry bag.

Lowpoints: Wear goggles and tent the kitchen during preparation: Poopy-brown mousse tends to splat in all directions during the beating process. Chalky aftertaste proves that a French pastry chef wasn’t involved.

Average retail price: $3.39

Availability: Most major grocery stores

Description: Plastic 8-ounce tub of hummus made with triple-filtered water and flavored with “40 spices” as well as sesame tahini and sea salt.

Preparation summary: Ready to serve. Keep refrigerated.

Highpoints: Zippy flavor and thick consistency is sure to keep the hummus craze alive. Makes for a challenging party game when trying to guess the 40 spices.

Lowpoints: Though pleasing, the flavor leans toward basic powdered curry, making it less exotic tasting than expected.

Average retail price: $2.29

Availability: Most major grocery stores

Description: Finger-shaped appetizers of crispy pastry dough filled with spicy beef, cheddar cheese, salsa and jalapeno peppers by Safeway Select.

Preparation summary: Arrange a single layer on cookie sheet and bake at 400 degrees for eight to 10 minutes or deep fry until golden brown.

Highpoints: Shape and flavor are a cut above most frozen appetizers. The filling is moist and spicy, and the pastry casings turn out crispy.

Lowpoints: It’s hard to distinguish the meat from the cheese because both are processed into a mulchy paste resembling refried beans. The little buggers slide down quickly, but beware, it takes only three to rack up 180 calories.

Average retail price: $2.99

Availability: Vons

Description: Tomato-based soup stocked with rice, beans, potatoes, veggies and chicken and flavored to resemble fajitas.

Preparation summary: Heat in microwave or on the stovetop and serve.

Highpoints: The soup really tastes like fajitas, with savory sweet undertones and a hint of spice. Large bite-size veggies are relatively firm and generously contained. Tender chicken plus no salty aftertaste makes it a winner.

Lowpoints: An enemy soup to low-carb dieters: A one-cup serving contains 23 grams of the instant fuel.

Average retail price: $3.19

Availability: Major grocery stores