Instructions
Prepare the Barley: Rinse the pearl barley under cold water and drain it. This helps remove any debris and reduces the starchiness.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Add the Remaining Vegetables:
Incorporate the diced zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans into the pot. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and the rinsed barley. Add the dried oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the barley is tender.
Adjust Seasoning: After cooking, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.