Pop into Marks & Spencer for a quick dinner fix and you might find yourself bypassing the fresh produce in favour of a cheeky ready-made treat.

This is exactly what happened when I spotted a "takeaway for one" Chinese box, an adorable red-packaged delight among rows upon rows of microwave meals.

In it, you'll get two crunchy spring rolls, some fluffy egg fried rice, veggie-packed chow mein, and tangy sweet and sour chicken, all for the sum of £6.50.

Comparing the cost to the fresh ingredients I initially planned to purchase, this takeaway alternative seemed like an absolute steal.

Curiosity led me to compare it further with my go-to local takeaway nestled in Kensington, where the same meal would typically set me back £22 - that's a saving of £15.50!

Granted, a traditional takeaway may offer heftier portions, but M&S's offering expertly dodges any post-dinner regrets over wasted food.

On evaluating my impromptu buy, satisfaction was an understatement.

But the real test was in the tasting.

Thankfully, I can jubilantly report that this wallet-friendly option resonates with the familiar flavours of your beloved Chinese takeaway.

The sweet and sour chicken was tangy with small citrus tinges.

The spring rolls boasted a delightful crunch with every bite and packed enough filling that they didn't feel like chomping down on packed air.

The chow mein was stuffed with veggies and heavy enough on the stomach to be an entire main.

I went back and forth between the noodles and chicken - sometimes combining them both in a single bite!

The egg fried rice was pretty bog-standard but it served its purpose regardless.

The fakeaway may not look like much, but I was stuffed.

Thankfully, very little went to waste and I was completely satisfied.

If you fancy a cheeky takeaway without remortgaging, then M&S has you covered.

I'm going to grab a few on my next trip and surprise the family when they suggest a takeaway. They won't know the difference.