1 cup pearl barley
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can diced tomatoes
3 cups spinach or kale
Salt and pepper to taste
Rinse the pearl barley under cold water.
In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
Toss in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until they soften slightly.
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the canned tomatoes, along with the rinsed barley. Stir well.
Add salt and pepper to taste. For an aromatic touch, feel free to throw in some dried herbs or a bay leaf.
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add your spinach or kale. Stir until just wilted.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot!