Vegetable Barley Soup

Instructions

1. . Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add barley and toast, stirring frequently, until lightly golden and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
2. . Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
3. . Add broth, tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 25-30 minutes until barley is tender.
4. . Add green beans in the last 8 minutes of cooking. Remove bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper. Serve garnished with parsley and optional Parmesan.