Easy Bean Soup

It doesn't get much easier than this. Add a loaf of warm, crusty bread and you've got a fast meal. Enjoy!

Easy Bean Soup

1 pound Great Northern beans, washed and sorted
2 1/2 quarts cold water, divided
3 carrots, sliced
3 stalks celery, sliced
2 medium onions, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
2 cups stewed tomatoes
1 bay leaf
2 tablespoons olive oil
salt and pepper to taste

Soak beans overnight in 2 qts. water.

Add remaining water to softened beans and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes.

Add all remaining ingredients; simmer 60 minutes or until beans are tender. Remove bay leaf before serving.