Easy Barley Soup with Vegetables

barley

🥗Healthier: quinoa

💰Cheaper: rice

Quinoa is a protein-rich alternative, while rice is more economical.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade vegetable stock

💰Cheaper: water

Homemade stock is fresher and healthier, while water is the most budget-friendly.

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven and cook the onion, carrot and celery over medium heat for 3-4 minutes.

Add the garlic and continue to cook for another minute until fragrant. Next, stir in the Italian seasoning and chilli flakes.

Add the pearl barley and vegetable stock and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer, covered with a lid, for 20-25 minutes until the pearl barley is tender.

Add the cannellini beans and spinach and continue to simmer for 4-5 minutes until the beans are heated through, and the spinach has wilted.

Stir in the lemon juice, season to taste and serve with extra lemon slices and crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary