: A hearty, cozy vegetarian soup made with tender pearled barley, vegetables, herbs, and leafy greens in a savory vegetable broth. Comforting and nutrient-rich.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Ingredients
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 carrots, peeled and diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
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3/4 cup pearled barley, rinsed
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6 cups vegetable broth
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1 bay leaf
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1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
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Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice, fresh parsley, grated Parmesan
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a soup pot. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 6–8 minutes.
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Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
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Stir in diced tomatoes, barley, broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat and simmer partially covered for 40–50 minutes until barley is tender.
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Stir in spinach or kale and simmer 2–3 more minutes.
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Remove bay leaf, season to taste, and serve with toppings of choice.