You guys are all imaging good shows that stick with the established characters and don't retcon the universe, your imaginations are far better than what would actually be created.

The most exotic and amusing chef on the show - Neelix, would be absent. Data is back and well (no explanation offered) and cooks up a plate of synthetic oil, writers not knowing he can taste and wants to study and be part of human culture and make things his friends can also enjoy. Tilly has a meltdown because she's done the recipe wrong and everything's burnt - everyone who tries to help her also cries, but then they come together, "actually it's even better burnt".