Cut onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and other vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
Add olive oil to a pot and sauté onions, carrots, and celery.
Add tomatoes, cabbage, bell peppers, and any remaining vegetables, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
Pour in water and tomato juice or tomato purée.
Season with bay leaf, salt, and pepper, then bring to a boil over high heat.
Reduce to medium-low heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Add herbs like basil or oregano to taste and finish.