Put a soup pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and onions and sauté for 5 minutes over medium heat while stirring occasionally. Add garlic, carrots and celery and continue to sauté until softened.
Add tomatoes, thyme, chicken broth, barley and bay leaves and simmer until the barley is tender, about 30-40 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
main ingredients: type of recipe:souptype of dish:lunch cuisine:Canadaseason and occasion: Winterdietary considerations: Array Type of meal: buffet