So many delicious things start with cooking an onion. This week, we celebrate the most essential ingredient in the kitchen. Kate Winslow, author of the book Onions Etcetera, shares recipes and onion wisdom. Plus, Sefra Alexandra–The Seed Huntress–describes her quest to revive the Southport Globe Onion, and historian Ramin Ganeshram peels back the layers of onion history in Westport, Conn.

Julia Bainbridge, author of Good Drinks, shares recipes for thoughtful nonalcoholic cocktails you’ll want to make whether you’re doing “Dry January” or not. Plus, local juice maker Josephine Joiner (aka Juicy J.) and John Walker, head brewer at Athletic Brewing Co., the state’s only alcohol-free craft beer brewery.

The holidays feel different this year. We’re exploring the ways our holiday food traditions keep us emotionally connected, even when we have to be socially distanced. We share recipes for a swoon-worthy salmon and a sweet coquito. Plus, Dr. Laurie Santos of The Happiness Lab podcast helps us see the joy in a pared-down holiday.

Holidays are a time of joy and gifts . . .and leftovers. This week: YouTube star and cookbook author Sam the Cooking Guy transforms brisket, roast chicken, mashed potatoes, and more into leftovers you actually want to eat. We talk to Sam about his unconventional path to culinary stardom and his new book, Sam the Cooking Guy: Recipes with Intentional Leftovers.

Fresh ideas for leftovers, a local turkey farmer gives you a new appreciation for the bird you just ate, and we talk to chef Craig Wright about overcoming hardship and giving back to his community. Plus, an etiquette columnist answers questions about celebrating holidays in our new normal.