If there’s one culinary cue worth taking from the Europeans, it’s that chocolate is a perfectly acceptable way to begin the day. And why not? Dark chocolate is full of antioxidants, and some studies show it might even be good for our hearts. Ready to test that theory? Then consider smooth and creamy Chocolinette spread, a breakfast-table staple that’s popular throughout Europe.

Besides being vegan and GMO-free, Chocolinette is 100-percent organic. The secret to its crave-worthy flavor is a blend of hazelnuts and cashews, which give it an unparalleled richness.  Do like the French and slather Chocolinette atop  a fresh slice of baguette, or try baking into muffins, using it as a frosting for cupcakes—or, as some of us are inclined to do from time to time—eat it by the spoonful straight out of the jar.  Chocolinette is available at natural-food stores in the UK and France, online throughout Europe at Un Monde Vegan, and in the US at Whole Foods Markets, Dean & Deluca, and Fairway Markets.

By Aurelia d’Andrea, author of Vegetarian Paris.

The recipe for a happy life, according to Aurelia d’Andrea, calls for one part great food, one part travel adventure, and two parts companionship (human and animal, in equal measure). She’s living out her kitchen-inspired credo in San Francisco and Paris, France.