Cut onions, carrots, celery, cabbage, and other vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté the onions and garlic.
Add the remaining vegetables and stir-fry together for 2-3 minutes.
Add chopped tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) and water.
Season with bay leaves, herbs, salt, and pepper.
Simmer over medium-low heat for 20-30 minutes.
Pour the finished soup into bowls.